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Ophthalmology

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Scholarships Are Currently Available!

Ophthalmologists are dedicated eye doctors who specialize in keeping our eyes healthy and ensuring we see clearly. They examine eyes, diagnose and treat eye diseases, perform surgeries, and prescribe glasses and contact lenses. With skills that blend medical knowledge and surgical precision, they help people of all ages—from young children who need their first pair of glasses to grandparents who want to read to their grandkids. Beyond their technical expertise, ophthalmologists are known for their compassion, patience, and keen attention to detail. Their work has a profound impact on society by improving the quality of life for countless individuals, enabling them to read, drive, work, and enjoy the world around them. In short, ophthalmologists light up lives by ensuring that everyone can experience the beauty of the world with clear vision.

Salary Range

Education & Timeframe

  • Start Your Journey: Bachelor’s Degree in Biology, Chemistry, or a related field Duration: ~4 years
  • Advance Your Expertise: Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) degree from an accredited medical school Duration: ~4 years
  • Gain Experience: Complete a residency program in ophthalmology, which typically lasts 3-4 years, to gain specialized training and experience in eye care and surgery.
  • Stay Current: Stay current with medical advancements, patient care practices, and relevant research in ophthalmology. Obtain board certification from the American Board of Ophthalmology (ABO) to enhance qualifications and career prospects.

Scholarship Opportunities

  • The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Nevada Health Workforce Pipeline Grant (NHWPG) will focus on providing funding opportunities that are intended to disseminate financial relief and incentivize individuals to pursue careers in a variety of health-related fields. The expected outcome for these funds is to support and expand the opportunity to increase the number of qualified and competent professionals in the health workforce to improve the overall health of our communities. For more information on the ARPA Nevada Health Workforce Pipeline Grant, please contact Ryan Mills at rmills@health.nv.gov.
  • The Nevada Health Equity & Loan Assistance (HEAL) Program was launched by the Nevada Treasury in 2025 to reward healthcare providers who choose to practice in Nevada. The Nevada HEAL Program provides student loan repayment up to $120,000 to providers who commit to at least 5 years of clinical practice in an eligible Nevada community. See Nevada HEAL Program for details.
  • The Nevada Health Service Corps (NHSC) offers a state loan repayment program that provides funding to help pay off educational loans for those who commit to working in underserved areas of Nevada. This is a fantastic opportunity for students interested in pursuing a career in healthcare. By joining the NHSC, You can make a real difference in communities that need healthcare professionals the most. Nevada Health Service Corps | School of Medicine

Academic Institutions

Additional Information

Career Choices & Growth

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