Ophthalmic Specialty

Studying master’s in Ophthalmic Specialty at Zhengzhou University (ZZU) in China:

Ophthalmology is a surgical subspecialty within medicine that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders.

An ophthalmologist is a physician who undergoes subspecialty training in medical and surgical eye care. Following a medical degree, a doctor specializing in ophthalmology must pursue additional postgraduate residency training specific to that field. This may include a one-year integrated internship that involves more general medical training in other fields such as internal medicine or general surgery. Following residency, additional specialty training (or fellowship) may be sought in a particular aspect of eye pathology.

 

Necessary information:

• Duration: 3 years
• Degree awarded by: Zhengzhou University (ZZU)
• Admission criteria: Bachelor’s degree
• School/College: Clinical Medicine
• Language of instruction: English
• Format: Full-time
• Tuition fee: ¥ 39,000
• Application Fee: ¥ 300

 

Curriculum:

The curriculum for ophthalmology at universities typically includes a combination of didactic coursework, clinical rotations, and research opportunities. The specific structure and content of the curriculum may vary slightly between universities, but the core topics covered are generally similar. Here is an overview of the typical curriculum for ophthalmology:

1. Preclinical Years: During the first two years of medical school, students usually focus on foundational sciences such as anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and pathology. Although ophthalmology-specific courses may not be offered during this time, these basic sciences provide a strong foundation for understanding the eye and its related diseases.
2. Clinical Years: In the third and fourth years of medical school, students begin their clinical rotations. Ophthalmology is usually included as a rotation during this time. Students will spend several weeks or months working directly with ophthalmologists in both outpatient clinics and surgical settings. They will learn to perform basic eye examinations, diagnose common eye conditions, and observe or assist in various eye surgeries.
3. Didactic Courses: Alongside clinical rotations, students will also attend didactic courses specifically focused on ophthalmology. These courses cover a wide range of topics including ocular anatomy and physiology, optics and refraction, common eye diseases (such as cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration), pediatric ophthalmology, neuro-ophthalmology, ocular oncology, cornea and external diseases, uveitis/inflammatory diseases of the eye, retina/vitreous diseases and surgery.
4. Electives: Some universities offer elective rotations or courses in specialized areas of ophthalmology such as ocular pathology or ocular genetics. These electives allow students to gain more in-depth knowledge in specific areas of interest.
5. Research Opportunities: Many universities encourage medical students to engage in research projects related to ophthalmology. This can involve participating in ongoing research studies or conducting their own research under the guidance of faculty members. Research experience is valuable for those considering a career in academic ophthalmology or pursuing further specialization through fellowships.
6. Residency Training: After completing medical school, aspiring ophthalmologists must complete a residency program in ophthalmology, which typically lasts three to four years. During residency, residents receive comprehensive training in all aspects of ophthalmology, including clinical care, surgical techniques, and research. The curriculum during residency is more specialized and intensive compared to medical school.

 

Career opportunity:

There are several job options available in the field of ophthalmology. Some of the common job roles include:

1. Ophthalmologist: An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who specializes in eye and vision care. They diagnose and treat various eye conditions, perform surgeries, prescribe medications, and provide comprehensive eye care.
2. Optometrist: Optometrists are healthcare professionals who provide primary vision care. They examine eyes for vision problems, prescribe corrective lenses, diagnose and treat certain eye conditions, and refer patients to ophthalmologists for specialized care.
3. Ophthalmic Technician: Ophthalmic technicians work under the supervision of ophthalmologists to assist with patient examinations and procedures. They perform various diagnostic tests, measure visual acuity, administer eye medications, and educate patients on proper eye care.
4. Ophthalmic Nurse: Ophthalmic nurses specialize in providing nursing care to patients with eye disorders or those undergoing eye surgeries. They assist with pre-operative and post-operative care, administer medications, monitor patients’ conditions, and educate them about post-surgical care.
5. Ophthalmic Researcher: Ophthalmic researchers conduct scientific studies to advance knowledge in the field of ophthalmology. They may work in academic institutions or research organizations to investigate new treatments, develop innovative techniques or devices, or study the causes of various eye diseases.
6. Ophthalmic Technician Supervisor/Manager: These professionals oversee a team of ophthalmic technicians in a clinical setting. They ensure smooth operations, manage schedules, train new staff members, maintain equipment inventory, and ensure compliance with regulations.
7. Ocularist: Ocularists are skilled professionals who create custom-made artificial eyes (ocular prosthetics) for individuals who have lost an eye due to injury or disease. They take detailed measurements of the socket and create realistic prosthetic eyes that match the patient’s remaining eye.
8. Optician: Opticians help fit and dispense eyeglasses and contact lenses based on prescriptions provided by ophthalmologists or optometrists. They assist patients in selecting appropriate frames, take measurements, and ensure proper lens fitting.

 

Application Requirements:

1. Candidate should be a Non-Chinese citizen, under 40 years old, the Bachelor degree holder, healthy, with non-criminal record.
2. English language requirements: for candidates from non-English spoken countries applying for EMI (English Mediated Instruction) programs, their minimum IELTS score should reach 6.5 or TOEFL score reach 90 (IBT), or equivalent.
3. Chinese Language requirements: Applicants who apply for CMI (Chinese Mediated Instruction) Science and /or Engineering programs should pass the level-5 HSK or above. Applicants with lower level HSK can first apply for Chinese Language Programs for a full year or half year in ZZU before their major studies.
4. Specific requirements for individual academic Schools may vary by board and subjects taken. You are advised to check with your prospective school or supervisor.

 

English language requirements:

This program also accepts students with these scores, which are less than the mentioned one’s above.

Exam	Minimum score
IELTS	6
TOFEL IBT	83

 

Deadlines and intakes:

The program starts in September every year.