Why consider a career in ophthalmology?
Ophthalmology may appeal if you are looking for a specialty that combines:
- surgery
- clinical problem-solving
- the use of imaging and other specialist technologies
- acute and long-term patient care
- teamwork across the wider eye care service.
You may work with patients in outpatient clinics, emergency eye care settings, operating theatres and community services.
What ophthalmologists do
Ophthalmologists are medical doctors and surgeons who diagnose, treat and manage conditions that can affect sight and quality of life, including cataract, glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration and retinal disease.
Find out more about different career paths into ophthalmology.
Non-UK doctors working in the UK
Read about how to work in the UK if you trained in another country.
Find out moreTraining pathway
Doctors enter ophthalmology training through Ophthalmic Specialist Training (OST).
Find out about entry requirements, eligibility criteria and the application process.
Working internationally
Working internationally can be a rewarding way to develop your career while supporting eye care around the world. Whether you are interested in a short-term placement, a longer-term role or collaborating through an international partnership, there are a range of opportunities to get involved.
Find out more about how to work internationally.