From Classroom to Operating Room: What Attracts Medical Students to Ophthalmology

Background The choice of specialty is a pivotal decision for medical students, shaping their professional identities and career trajectories. Ophthalmology, a field combining surgical precision with the preservation of vision, often receives limited exposure in medical curricula. This study aims to explore factors influencing medical students' interest in ophthalmology at Al-Baha University College of Medicine, Saudi Arabia, amid increasing demand for ophthalmologists due to Vision 2030 healthcare reforms. Methods A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 299 medical students from the second to the internship year during the 2024–2025 academic year. Stratified random sampling ensured representative distribution. Data were collected using a validated, web-based, self-administered questionnaire addressing demographics, specialty preferences, motivations, and exposure to ophthalmology. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were used to analyze data, with p < 0.05 considered significant. Results Interest in ophthalmology was expressed by 57.2% of students. Younger students (< 21 years, 66.2%) and early decision-makers (before medical school, 70.9%) showed higher preference rates (p < 0.05). Influential factors included personal interest (66.7%), perceived income potential (59.1%), and procedural opportunities (57.9%), while barriers included limited exposure (33.3% had no exposure) and perceived difficulty of residency (36.8%). Logistic regression identified academic level and timing of career decision-making as significant predictors. Gender, marital status, and GPA were not significant. Conclusion Enhanced integration of ophthalmology into medical curricula and targeted interventions to address misconceptions are essential. Increasing awareness of medical students about the huge demand for ophthalmologists in medical practice and facilitating postgraduate study acceptance will significantly influence their decision to choose ophthalmology as a future career. These strategies can promote informed decision-making and align medical education with Saudi Arabia’s growing need for specialized ophthalmologists.