Career roadmap
How to Become an Ophthalmologist
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as an ophthalmologist, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become an ophthalmologist: (1) earn a bachelor’s degree, (2) complete medical school, (3) complete internship, (4) complete ophthalmology residency, (5) pass boards. Most people need about 12 years after high school. BLS lists “doctoral or professional degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become an ophthalmologist
Earn a bachelor’s degree
Pre-med.
Complete medical school
Four years.
Complete internship
One year.
Complete ophthalmology residency
Three years.
Pass boards
Practice or subspecialize.
Education and training requirements
Medical school, a one-year internship and a three-year ophthalmology residency are required, plus a license and board certification.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Doctoral or professional degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Internship/residency |
| Typical training time | 12 years after high school |
Certifications and licenses
- ABO board certification: American Board of Ophthalmology.
- State medical license: Required.
- Retina fellowship: Subspecialty.
- Cornea or glaucoma fellowship: Subspecialty.
Skills to build now
Start with eye examination, cataract surgery, and laser procedures, and practice steady hands and attention to detail. Learning the ophthalmologist vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Ophthalmology Resident: Train.
- Ophthalmologist: Practice.
- Subspecialist: Retina, cornea or glaucoma.
- Practice Partner: Own a practice.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Ophthalmologist training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long is training?
About 12 years after high school.
How long does it take to become an ophthalmologist?
Most people need about 12 years after high school of training. Medical school, a one-year internship and a three-year ophthalmology residency are required, plus a license and board certification.
Do you need a degree to be an ophthalmologist?
Yes. BLS lists a doctoral or professional degree as the typical entry-level education, and you also need a state license to practice.
What certifications are available for ophthalmologists?
Common credentials include ABO board certification, State medical license, Retina fellowship, and Cornea or glaucoma fellowship. Physicians need a state medical license after licensing exams and residency.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 29-1241 (Ophthalmologists, except pediatric).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Ophthalmologists, except pediatric (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.