List of Universities That Offer Optometry in Nigeria
Optometrists are medical doctors who provide primary vision care, conduct eye exams, and prescribe corrective lenses. They can also diagnose and manage certain eye diseases. If you’re interested in pursuing an optometry degree, then this page will give you a head start. This article will show you everything you need to know about the List of Universities That Offer Optometry in Nigeria, admission requirements for Optometry programs, and some career opportunities for graduates with an Optometry degree.
Optometry is a healthcare profession that focuses on diagnosing, treating, and managing eye-related conditions. As the demand for skilled optometrists grows in Nigeria, several universities offer this program to equip students with the necessary knowledge and expertise.
If you’re interested in pursuing an optometry degree, you must know the universities in Nigeria offer accredited optometry programs. Below is the list of Universities in Nigeria offering optometry programs, their key responsibilities, and the admission requirements needed for an optometry program. Read Carefully.
List of Universities That Offer Optometry in Nigeria
Below is the list of universities offering optometry in Nigeria.
- Abia State University
- Arthur Jarvis university
- Bayero University Kano
- Federal University of Technology Owerri
- Gregory University
- Imo State University
- Madonna University
- Novena University
- University Of Benin
- University of Ilorin
- Lead City University
- University of Ibadan
- University of Port Harcourt
- University of Nigeria
- University of Lagos
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- Usmanu Danfodiyo University
- Lagos State University Teaching Hospital
Admission Requirements for Optometry Programs
To gain admission into any of the universities offering optometry, students typically need:
- At least five O’Level credits, including English, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
- A competitive score in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), with Biology, Chemistry, and Physics as core subjects.
- Post-UTME screening, depending on the university’s admission process.
JAMB Subjects Combination for Optometry
To study Optometry in Nigerian universities, you must meet the specific subject combination requirements set by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). These requirements ensure you have a strong foundation in the sciences, which is essential for succeeding in this field. Below is the required JAMB subject combination for Optometry programs:
- English Language (Compulsory for all courses)
- Physics
- Biology
- Chemistry
Additional Requirements
- You must score at least the minimum JAMB cut-off mark set by your chosen university.
- A strong performance in the post-UTME or screening exercise of your preferred institution is also essential.
Career Opportunities in Optometry
Graduates of optometry can pursue various career paths, including:
- Clinical Optometrist
- Vision Therapist
- Eye Clinic Manager
- Researcher or Academic in Optometry
- Consultant in Eye Care Technology
Key Responsibilities of an Optometrist
- Eye Examinations: Optometrists conduct comprehensive eye tests to assess vision and detect any abnormalities. These tests help determine refractive errors like nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), or astigmatism.
- Prescribing Corrective Lenses: Based on the results of eye exams, optometrists prescribe glasses or contact lenses to correct vision impairments.
- Diagnosing and Managing Eye Diseases: They detect and manage eye conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy.
- Vision Therapy and Rehabilitation: Optometrists offer therapy for visual issues like lazy eye (amblyopia) or binocular vision disorders and help rehabilitate patients with low vision.
- Prevention and Education: Optometrists educate patients on maintaining eye health and preventing vision problems through proper care, diet, and lifestyle adjustments.
Difference Between Optometrists, Ophthalmologists, and Opticians
- Optometrists: Provide primary vision care, conduct eye exams, and prescribe corrective lenses. They can also diagnose and manage certain eye diseases.
- Ophthalmologists: Medical doctors who perform eye surgeries, treat serious eye conditions, and provide comprehensive care.
- Opticians: Technicians who design, fit, and dispense corrective lenses based on prescriptions from optometrists or ophthalmologists.
Conclusion
Optometry is an academic field that comes with a fulfilling career that significantly contributes to the healthcare sector. The universities mentioned above offer outstanding programs for those aiming to become optometrists. Make sure to review the specific requirements and details of each institution before applying. By choosing to study at one of these universities, you’ll be taking a step toward a rewarding career in eye care.
We trust you found this article helpful. Be sure to check back here regularly for the latest updates. If you encounter any challenges during your admission process or have any questions, feel free to drop them in the comment section, and we’ll respond promptly.
