Optometry

The Doctor of Optometry (OD) is a six-year professional degree program designed to train skilled optometrists who can deliver comprehensive eye and vision care services. The program integrates the basic medical sciences, clinical optometry, vision science, and professional practice to prepare students for independent clinical practice, research, public health engagement, and academic leadership.

Throughout the course of study, students develop competencies in the examination, diagnosis, treatment, and management of eye diseases and visual disorders. Emphasis is placed on refractive error correction, ocular pharmacology, pediatric and geriatric optometry, contact lens fitting, low vision rehabilitation, and community eye health.

Hands-on training is a critical component of the program. Students gain clinical experience through rotations in optometry clinics, hospitals, outreach programs, and vision screening camps. They also utilize modern diagnostic equipment and simulation labs for practical learning.

Upon graduation, students will be licensed to practice as a Doctor of Optometry (OD) in Nigeria and globally, capable of delivering evidence-based, patient-centred eye care.

Program Objectives

The goal of the OD program is to produce competent, ethical, and highly skilled optometrists who can contribute to the prevention of blindness, promotion of eye health, and advancement of vision science.

Graduates of the program will be able to:

• Perform comprehensive eye examinations and detect visual and ocular abnormalities
• Diagnose and manage ocular diseases, refractive errors, and binocular vision disorders
• Prescribe and dispense optical aids, including glasses and contact lenses
• Administer therapeutic pharmaceutical agents for ocular conditions
• Educate patients and communities on eye health promotion and disease prevention
• Conduct research and contribute to evidence-based optometric practices
• Collaborate with other healthcare professionals in the delivery of integrated care

Graduates will emerge with:

• Clinical expertise in primary and specialized optometric care
• Proficiency in diagnostic techniques and ophthalmic instrumentation
• Knowledge of ocular pharmacology, systemic health, and visual neuroscience
• Skills in optical dispensing, low vision therapy, and vision rehabilitation
• Experience from supervised clinical practice and public health outreach
• Readiness for licensure and independent optometric practice
• Capacity to pursue careers in eye clinics, hospitals, public health, research, education, or private optometry practice