Ophthalmologist

Duties and Responsibilities:

Ophthalmologists are physicians who choose to specialize in conditions, injuries and disease affecting the eye and its related structures. Ophthalmologists are not identical to optometrists. Although ophthalmologist can provide the same service as the optometrists, such as prescribing corrective lenses, ophthalmologist can perform surgery, an opinion not available for optometrist. Job duties for ophthalmologist vary by practice setting and subspecialty but they share certain basic functions.

Salary: $258,566

Education:

Ophthalmologists are a type of physician, and, thus, they are required to earn a medical degree. The process is a lengthy one, with a prospective Ophthalmologist having to earn a 4-year, bachelor's degree, complete four years of medical school, and 3-8 years of internships and residencies. Common undergraduate programs include pre-med, biology and chemistry; coursework that will help prepare you for a career as an Ophthalmologist include biochemistry, anatomy, physiology, organic chemistry, physics, and medical ethics. Ophthalmologists also need to pass a licensing exam in order to practice.

Skill Requirements for a Career as an Ophthalmologist

Ophthalmologists must have strong physics and math skills as well as a robust medical knowledge. Because many Ophthalmologists also own their own practices, good management and administrative skills are also helpful.