Duke Orthoptic Fellowship Program 

The Duke School of Medicine's 24-month, full-time orthoptic training program offers comprehensive, accredited academic and clinical instruction in orthoptics and ophthalmology. Students are trained by experienced orthoptists and ophthalmologists, with hands-on learning and at least 1,200 patient encounters. 

Graduates earn a Certificate of Completion from Duke and are eligible to take the AOC national board exams (written, oral, and practical). Passing the exams earns national certification as a “Certified Orthoptist” (C.O.). 

Orthoptists can work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, private practices, research facilities, or in education. Career opportunities are abundant, with a median salary range of $70,000–$90,000 annually, and potential earnings over $100,000 in larger metropolitan areas or specialized practices. Additional benefits include flexible work environments, professional growth, and the satisfaction of improving patients' vision and quality of life. 

Benefits of the Orthoptic Training Program  

• Comprehensive Training: The program combines 40% classroom instruction (online and in-person) and 60% clinical rotations, offering hands-on experience in diverse clinical settings. 

• Real-World Experience: Students gain practical skills while working with a wide range of patients, bridging theoretical knowledge with hands-on practice. Students in the program can expect at least 1250 patient encounters during training over 2 years. 

• Eligibility: Applicants must have a bachelor's degree; science majors preferred, though non-science degrees are also considered. 

• Certification: Complete the two-year program to earn a certificate in orthoptics and become eligible for the AOC certification exam. 

• Competitive Pay: Graduates can expect a starting salary of $35–$70 per hour, with potential for higher earnings based on location and experience. 

• High Job Placement: Graduates are in high demand across healthcare settings, offering strong job prospects in hospitals, eye clinics, and ophthalmology private practices. 

• Financial Aid: Affordable tuition with available financial aid and merit-based scholarships for eligible students. 

• Networking Opportunities: Access to a professional network of ophthalmologists, and certified Orthotists, leading to career opportunities post-graduation under supervision of pediatric ophthalmologist. 

• Embark on a specialized career in orthoptics with excellent training, earning potential, job satisfaction, and career growth! 

Highlights of an Orthoptist Career 

• Direct Patient Care: Collaborate with ophthalmologists to diagnose and manage conditions related to binocular vision, eye alignment, and visual disorders. 

• Independent Clinical Responsibilities: Manage clinics under the supervision of a pediatric ophthalmologist, providing specialized care for pediatric and adult patients. 

• Vision Exams & Diagnostic Testing: Perform ocular assessments (visual acuity, cover-uncover tests, eye movement measurements) to assist in diagnosing strabismus, amblyopia, and diplopia. 

• Orthoptic Procedures & Treatments: Administer non-surgical treatments like amblyopia therapy, double vision management, and eye exercises to improve patient vision. 

• Patient Education: Educate patients on their conditions, treatment plans, and the importance of follow-up care and self-management. 

• Clinical Research Support: Contribute to eye care advancements by collecting clinical data for research studies. 

• In-Demand Career: High demand for orthoptists due to a nationwide shortage, with opportunities across various healthcare settings. 

• Career Advancement: Opportunities for growth into roles in clinic management, teaching, and specialized eye care. 

• Rewarding Career: Work with pediatric and adult patients in a fulfilling role that builds meaningful patient relationships and changes patients' lives by improving vision.