A Career as an Eye Doctor
Thinking of a Career in Ophthalmology?
Please note that FRCOphth Part 1 results will only be accepted for exams completed up to and including the October 2026 sitting.
Interviews for July 2027 intake will take place in person in Dublin. Further details will be shared in due course.
ICO
Careers Event
Applications scorecard for July 2027
Trainee experience
Specialist Training in Ophthalmology
The Irish College of Ophthalmologists (ICO) is the accredited postgraduate training body responsible for the delivery of Specialist Training in Ophthalmology. The ICO is recognised for this purpose by the Irish Medical Council (IMC) and the Health Service Executive (HSE).
Ophthalmology is the branch of medicine that deals with the anatomy, physiology and disease of the eye and visual system. Ophthalmologists diagnose, medically treat and perform surgery to preserve vision and prevent sight loss in patients. The Irish College of Ophthalmologists (ICO) is responsible for the delivery of Specialist Training in Ophthalmology and offers two training pathways:
- Medical Ophthalmology (5-year programme)
- Surgical Ophthalmology (7-year programme)
Entry to the Basic Training Programmes in Medical Ophthalmology and Surgical Ophthalmology is by annual competitive interview run by the Irish College of Ophthalmologists. An applicant’s undergraduate performance together with their personal and professional attributes, such as, ability to work as a team, communication skills and personal motivation, are all relevant.
Further details on how to apply can be found on the Basic Medical Training section of our website and on the Basic Surgical Training section.
ICO Equal Opportunities Policy
Testimonial Video for the ICO National Training Programme in Medical Ophthalmology
Tips & Guidance before Applying
Advice when in Medical School
1. Your medical degree
Try to get the best centile in your medical degree.
2. Gain ophthalmology experience
Arrange an ophthalmology elective and do an audit.
3. Get involved & present research
Attend national ophthalmology meetings such as the ICO Annual Conference in the summer and Winter Meeting and present your research.
4. Apply for an ophthalmology intern job
- Mater Hospital Dublin
- St Vincent's Hospital Dublin
- Galway University Hospital
- Cork University Hospital
Advice for Interns & NCHD
1. Complete Part 1 of the FRCOphth exam
Before applying to the ophthalmology training scheme, do Part 1 of the FRCOphth Exam.
2. Get involved & present research
Attend national ophthalmology meetings and present your research.
3. Engage in research
Attach yourself to a research group and publish a paper / audit / case study.
4. Network
Network and speak to consultants and trainees about the speciality.
Prepare, plan & Inform your application
We advise anyone thinking of applying to the Medical or Surgical Ophthalmology programmes to visit the dedicated Training section on our website www.eyedoctors.ie/trainees (opens in new tab).