Ⅰ. Admission and Requirements
Q: Which high school tracks are eligible to apply to the Optometry Department?
A: Admission is exclusively available to graduates of preparatory school / Scientific (Biology) track.
Q: What degree is awarded upon graduation, and what is the duration of study?
A: The duration of study is two years (two academic years), after which the graduate is awarded a Technical Diploma in Optometry Techniques.
Q: What is the job description for a graduate of this department?
A: The graduate is designated as an “Optometrist” (Visual Examiner). Their duties include measuring visual acuity, determining refractive errors, and prescribing medical eyeglasses.
Ⅱ. Curriculum and Academic Aspects
Q: What are the core scientific subjects taught in the department?
A: The curriculum includes: Physical Optics, Clinical Optometry, Ocular Diseases, Ophthalmic Lenses, and Anatomy and Physiology of the Eye.
Q: Is the study difficult, and is it English-dependent?
A: The scientific curricula are taught in English to keep pace with technical advancements in vision testing equipment, accompanied by detailed explanations in Arabic to facilitate practical understanding.
Ⅲ. Training and Practical Skills
Q: Where do students receive their practical training?
A: Training takes place in the optometry clinics and specialized laboratories within the department, as well as clinical training in eye hospitals and vision screening centers affiliated with the Nineveh Health Directorate.
Q: Is there summer training for optometry students?
A: Yes, first-stage students are required to complete a one-month summer training program in government hospitals to gain field experience in handling patients and medical equipment.
Ⅳ. Employment and Career Future
Q: Is employment centrally guaranteed for graduates of this department?
A: Yes, the department is covered by the Medical Graduation Law No. 6, and employment is central within the hospitals and centers of the Ministry of Health.
Q: What job opportunities are available outside the government sector?
A: Graduates can work in the private sector, such as vision screening centers, optical shops, and contact lens clinics.
Q: Can graduates pursue a Bachelor’s degree?
A: Yes, top students (the top quarter) are eligible to apply to continue their studies at Medical Technical Colleges (Optometry Department) to obtain a Bachelor’s degree.