The Diploma in Ophthalmic Science is a three-year program offered by Mahakali Polytechnic Institute in Ward No. 4 of Bhimdatta Municipality, Mahendranagar, Kanchanpur, Nepal. The program is affiliated with the Council for Technical Education and Vocational Training (CTEVT) and structured to prepare middle-level eye care professionals who can assist ophthalmologists, conduct routine eye examinations, and manage refraction services independently. Admission is open to candidates who have passed the Secondary Education Examination (SEE) and cleared the CTEVT entrance test.
The curriculum of this diploma follows the standard academic structure set by CTEVT. It focuses on theoretical and practical knowledge in ophthalmic science. The coursework includes basic sciences in the first year, followed by applied ophthalmology, diagnostics, and community health in the second and third years. Field training is integrated throughout the program to enhance clinical exposure.
Medium of Instruction: English and Nepali
Total Duration: 3 Years
Annual Intake Capacity: 40 Students
Total Program Cost: NPR 295,000 (Approx.)
Prepare students with the technical knowledge to identify and manage common eye conditions.
Enable graduates to support ophthalmic surgeries and outpatient care.
Train students to deliver primary eye health services in community and clinical settings.
Promote awareness and preventive care through school screening and public health initiatives.
Build confidence in delivering patient education and supporting outreach programs.
Graduates with a diploma in ophthalmic science are qualified to work in eye hospitals, clinics, and outreach health centers across Nepal. They can register with the Nepal Health Professional Council (NHPC) under the specified category upon completion. The program provides a gateway to employment in public and private health institutions and can lead to higher academic pathways in ophthalmology or other allied health sciences.
Upon successful completion of the program, students are expected to:
Perform comprehensive eye examinations, including visual acuity assessment and refraction.
Assist in cataract and other ophthalmic surgeries.
Recognize and manage common ocular diseases.
Educate communities on eye health and conduct school health screenings.
Maintain and handle ophthalmic instruments and clinical records efficiently.
The program emphasizes both clinical and interpersonal skills, including:
Refraction and optical dispensing
Use of slit lamp, tonometry, and diagnostic tools
Assisting with minor surgical procedures
Community-based eye care and health education
Basic pharmacology in eye treatment
Hands-on training is conducted at partnering eye hospitals such as Geta Eye Hospital, which provides extended field practice opportunities.
The course delivery includes a combination of:
Classroom lectures and discussions
Practical sessions in hospital settings
Visual demonstration and simulation exercises
Supervised fieldwork in eye care units
Assignments, quizzes, and case-based assessments
This blend of academic and experiential learning supports students in gaining real-world competence.
To apply for the Diploma in Ophthalmic Science, candidates must:
Have passed SEE (Grade 10) with a minimum GPA of 2 or SLC with a pass division.
Must have passed English, Mathematics, and Science.
Successfully cleared the entrance examination conducted by CTEVT.
Required Documents:
Filled admission form
Academic transcripts and certificates
Citizenship certificate copy
Six recent passport-size photographs
Diploma holders can find employment in:
Eye hospitals and vision centers
Community health programs
Government health offices
Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
Ophthalmic clinics and optical shops
Positions include ophthalmic assistant, refractionist, surgical assistant, or community eye care worker. With experience and further study, graduates may progress into managerial or specialized roles in eye care services.
Mahakali Polytechnic Institute offers scholarship opportunities through:
Mayor’s Scholarship Program
Local government-supported schemes
Social inclusion quotas for marginalized communities
Special allocations for female candidates and freed Kamaiya students
Financial aid programs aim to support students from disadvantaged backgrounds who meet the academic and admission criteria.
This diploma program is especially suited for students seeking a hands-on profession in healthcare with a focus on vision care. It is highly relevant in rural and urban communities where access to primary eye services remains limited. The structured clinical exposure and connections with leading eye hospitals give students valuable real-world experience.
The Diploma in Ophthalmic Science at Mahakali Polytechnic Institute offers a focused educational track for those interested in a career in eye health. The program, which includes structured academic content, skilled faculty, and practical engagement through hospital tie-ups, equips students with the essential knowledge and skills to serve in Nepal’s healthcare sector. The course not only opens job avenues but also empowers students to pursue further academic qualifications in the medical field.
