Overview
Optometrists examine eyes to assess and diagnose ocular diseases and disorders. They prescribe and fit eyeglasses and contact lenses and recommend treatments such as exercises to correct vision problems or ocular disorders. They work in private practice, hospitals, clinics, community health centres, rehabilitation centres, the optical industry, government and universities.
This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Examine patients' eyes, conduct tests and use ophthalmoscopes, biomicroscopes and other specialized instruments to determine ocular health and visual efficiency
Prescribe and provide treatment (excluding surgery) to maintain, improve and correct vision and manage other ocular diseases and disorders
Prescribe, dispense and fit eyeglasses, contact lenses and other visual aids
Educate, counsel and advise patients on contact lens use and care, ocular hygiene, surgical and non-surgical options, and preventive care and maintenance related to occupation and lifestyle
Refer patients to ophthalmologists or other physicians and surgeons for treatment of ocular diseases or conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration and systemic conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure
Collaborate with ophthalmologists and other healthcare professionals to provide pre- and post-operative care for patients undergoing eye surgeries such as laser vision correction
May prescribe from a limited list of medications
Conduct research and promote advancement in the visual sciences.
Optometrists may specialize in fitting visual aids for people who are partially blind, fitting contact lenses or correcting special vision problems.
Employment prospects
Annual salary
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$69,500
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Job openings
Use this interactive map to explore job openings in different regions across B.C.
Strong job outlook
British Columbia
183expected job openings (5-year forecast)
Education and training
Employment requirements
Three years of university undergraduate studies or, in Quebec, completion of a college program in sciences and a four- to five-year university program in optometry are required.
Licensing by the provincial or territorial regulatory governing body is required.
Certification requirements
Mandatory: You need the following certification to practice as Optometrists in B.C.
- Registration with the College of Health and Care Professionals of BC - Optometrists
Registration with the College of Health and Care Professionals of BC - Optometrists
Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification.
To practice as an optometrist in B.C., you must be registered with the College of Health and Care Professionals of BC. Eligibility is achieved through graduation from a recognized school of optometry and successful completion of the Jurisprudence Exam.
Post-secondary programs in B.C.
No programs available in B.C.
There are currently no programs offered at public post-secondary institutions in BC that will qualify you for this career. Please see the College of Optometrists of British Columbia website for other options.