BSc Optometry Salary: Are We Undervaluing the Eyes Behind the Glasses?

Introduction: The Irony in Sight If you can read this clearly, thank an optometrist. Yet, ironically, the people responsible for maintaining our vision often find their own professional worth clouded by misperceptions—especially when it comes to salary and recognition. For those pursuing a Bachelor of Optometry, especially in Kerala, the question isn’t just “What will I earn?” It’s “Will I be seen as a doctor?” Spoiler: You should be. Let’s talk about money, respect, and the blurry line between passion and profession in the world of optometry. Act 1: The Road to Becoming a Vision Doctor I remember a student, Anjali, who once shared her dilemma: “I love eyes. I love helping people see. But when I tell people I’m studying optometry, they think I’m just going to hand out glasses at a shop.” Let’s set the record straight. A BSc in Optometry is not a casual diploma. It's a rigorous four-year journey through anatomy, physiology, optics, and clinical practice. Graduates aren’t sales rep...