Health

Ophthalmologist

Eyes and vision: cataract surgery, retinal disease, glaucoma — micro-surgery with immediate, visible results.

Save this career to see your personalized pathway in My Senda.

Typical pay: €50k–€110k
Usual education: Medicine degree + 4-year ophthalmology residency
Outlook: Very competitive residency; strong private demand.

A day in the life

High-volume clinics with imaging, laser sessions and operating lists where the whole procedure lasts fifteen minutes and restores someone's sight.

Ways in

Medicine degree
High MIR score
Four-year ophthalmology residency
Hospital or private eye clinics

What to study at 16

The subjects you choose for the final years of secondary school can shape which degrees, exams and careers are easiest to reach. This is about choosing courses, not choosing a school.

Spain

Bachillerato de Ciencias y Tecnología

Portugal

Ciências e Tecnologias

France

Bac général — spécialités

Germany

Oberstufe — Leistungskurse

Italy

Liceo scientifico

Netherlands

Profiel Natuur & Gezondheid

See related careers

Exams you'll need

The gates between you and this job, and when each one comes.

Required

MIR — Médico Interno Residente

You need MIR to specialise and practise in the Spanish public system.

Browse all exams

Skills that matter

Anatomy & Physiology Manual Dexterity Clinical Assessment

Best courses to take

The study routes that lead most directly into this career.

Degree

Degree in Medicine

Six years, the highest entrance marks in the country, and the only route to becoming a doctor of any specialty.

Specialty chosen after the MIR exam.

Helpful school subjects: Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Pathology, Pharmacology, Clinical rotations