Internship Highlights

Minimum Duration: 2-weeks
Maximum Duration: 12-weeks
Availability: All year round except for August and the two weeks around New Year’s Day
Fees: Starting from $1,950
Language: The internship is conducted in English
Schedule: Monday to Friday, 8am – 4pm
Location: Thessaloniki, Greece
Eligibility requirement: Must be 18 years old or over and preferably with least one year of undergraduate study completed, with a relevant scientific major such as biology, chemistry, neuroscience, behavioral sciences, physics etc. Interns must have a genuine interest in medicine and commitment to observation of both surgical and non surgical procedures.
University Credit: Cerca Abroad in cooperation with Webster University (Athens Campus) is able to offer a transferable US university credit option for this internship program. Learn more here.

Ophthalmology Internship

This is an in-country shadowing program with provided shared housing and local team support.

Immerse yourself in the field of ophthalmology by interning at a highly specialized hospital in Greece, renowned for its comprehensive ophthalmic care and cutting-edge research. Interns will have the opportunity to observe and shadow leading ophthalmologists across various clinical specialties, gaining invaluable insights into advanced medical procedures and treatments for ocular diseases.

Program Overview

The Ophthalmology Department offers a full spectrum of diagnostic, surgical, and therapeutic services for diseases affecting the visual system. Interns will shadow highly experienced medical teams and renowned ophthalmologists with international expertise, ensuring a rich educational experience. Through rotations across multiple units and outpatient clinics, interns will gain exposure to advanced diagnostic tools, surgical procedures, and patient care practices.

This shadowing internship is designed to provide a detailed overview of clinical ophthalmology, covering a variety of subspecialties and offering an in-depth understanding of eye disorders, surgeries, and post-operative care.

Key Learning Experiences

• Clinical Rotations: Observe diverse cases across anterior and posterior ophthalmology units, neonatal and pediatric ophthalmology, and outpatient clinics specializing in glaucoma, corneal pathology, and vitreous-retinal surgery.
• Advanced Diagnostics & Treatment: Gain insights into the use of specialized diagnostic equipment and techniques, including laser intervention labs, macular pathology diagnosis, and diabetic retinopathy treatment.
• Surgical Shadowing: Interns will observe aseptic intraocular surgeries, vitreous-retinal operations, corneal transplants, and pediatric ocular procedures. Weekly rotations include aseptic and septic surgeries, as well as outpatient minor procedures.
• Specialized Outpatient Clinics: Participate in outpatient clinics dedicated to postoperative cataract control, pediatric ophthalmology, glaucoma, macular and retinal disorders, and emergency eye care.

Why Choose This Internship?

• Comprehensive Exposure: Shadow medical teams across a broad range of subspecialties in ophthalmology, offering a well-rounded perspective on eye care and surgery.
• World-Class Mentorship: Learn directly from experienced ophthalmologists trained at top international centers, ensuring access to global best practices.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: Intern in a hospital equipped with modern diagnostic labs, laser intervention units, and dedicated surgical rooms for both routine and complex ophthalmic procedures.
• Cultural Experience: Gain cross-cultural experience by interning in a European healthcare system, enriching your understanding of global medical practices.

Who Should Apply?

This program is ideal for:

• Pre-med students with a specific interest in ophthalmology.
• Medical graduates seeking specialization in eye care or surgery.
• Students or professionals in optometry aiming to deepen their clinical knowledge of ocular diseases and treatments.

Program Benefits

• Enhanced Medical Knowledge: Develop a deeper understanding of clinical ophthalmology, from diagnostics to surgical interventions.
• Specialized Skills Development: Learn about advanced ophthalmic tools, techniques, and surgical procedures, essential for a future career in ophthalmology.
• Career Advancement: Build a strong foundation for specialization in ophthalmology or optometry.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with top-tier professionals in the field and build international contacts for future collaborations or advanced studies.

Associated career paths:

Ophthalmologist, Optometrist, Ophthalmic Surgeon, Optician, Vision Scientist, Clinical Researcher (Ophthalmology), Pediatric Ophthalmologist, Glaucoma Specialist, Corneal Specialist, Retinal Specialist, Refractive Surgeon, Ocular Pathologist, Ophthalmic Technician, Laser Eye Surgeon, Ophthalmic Nurse, Medical Device Specialist (Ophthalmology), Low Vision Specialist

Fees include:
– 24/7 in-country support
– Airport pick-up
– Customized internship plan
– Fully furnished shared accommodation
– Local English speaking coordinator
– International reference letter
– Program & host city orientation
– Support before, during, and after your internship
– Sourcing and securing your internship placement
– Supervisor coaching
– Support to gain academic credit

Fees do not Include:
– Airport drop-off
– Local activities, meals/drinks (of any sort)
– International/local travel costs (incl public transport)
– Visa (if required), vaccinations
– Travel Insurance (mandatory), background check (mandatory)
– Any other service not mentioned

Important Things to Note:
– A deposit of US$350 is required to secure your internship
– The balance of your Program Fee is due 60 days before your internship start date
– Terms and Conditions apply
– To convert fees to another currency visit the XE currency converter
– Our fees are transparent with no hidden fees or extra charges