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Ophthalmic Laboratory Technology/Technician

Program Description

Just the Facts

Ophthalmic Laboratory Technology/Technician. A program that prepares individuals, under the supervision of ophthalmologists and optometrists, to cut, grind, edge, and finish corrective lenses and to fabricate eyewear. Includes instruction in optical theory, applied mathematics, lens surfacing and finishing, tinting and coating, impact resistance treatment and testing, frame construction and repair, prescription interpretation, equipment operation and maintenance, follow-up adjustment, record-keeping, and laboratory safety procedures.

This program is available in these options:

  • Certificate / Diploma
  • Associate degree
  • Bachelor's degree

High School Courses

See the high school courses recommended for programs in this career cluster:

See the high school courses recommended for programs in this pathway:


Related Careers

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Additional Information

There are three levels of training in ophthalmic technology. The first is ophthalmic assistant, the next is ophthalmic technician and the highest level is ophthalmic technologist. The amount of training required and responsibility on the job increases with each level.

Post-secondary courses for ophthalmic assistants generally last from six months to a year. Graduates usually earn a certificate or diploma.

Programs for technicians generally last one to two years. Programs for technologists take two years, and graduates earn an associate's degree.

Certification is voluntary but recommended. In the U.S., the Joint Commission of Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO) certifies ophthalmic assistants, ophthalmic technicians and ophthalmic medical technologists.

The JCAHPO accredits approximately 15 programs in ophthalmic technology.

Ophthalmic technology programs can be offered as part-time or full-time studies. Courses include ocular anatomy and physiology, basic visual examinations, ocular pharmacology and courses on contact lenses.

Ophthalmic technology programs usually have both classroom and clinical studies. "In the beginning, there is more classroom work," says John Wyse, ophthalmic technology instructor at a hospital.

"In the first semester, students might have 15 hours per week in the clinic, but by the end of the last semester, they're spending 25 to 30 hours in the clinic."

Some programs accept students out of high school. Others require some coursework at a college level.

"We look to see that college students have courses in math and science, but the same thing applies to high school students," says Diana Shamis, ophthalmic technology instructor at the University of Florida.

"In high school, students should be taking math and sciences, particularly the biological sciences."

Shamis says it's important to learn a bit about the field before applying to an ophthalmic technology program.

"We like to have students who have some clue about what they're getting into," she says. "Students can visit eye care centers or shadow an optometrist to learn more."

Shamis says that other types of experience can also be applicable. "In health care, you spend a lot of time interacting with patients," she says. "Other jobs where you're communicating with the public are helpful."

The main costs are tuition and books.


Links

Occupational Outlook Handbook
For more information related to this field of study, see: Medical Assistants

Laser Eye Surgery: Is it Worth Looking Into?
From the U.S. Food and Drug Administration

Healthy Eye
Lots of information here

Contact

  • Email Support

  • 1-800-GO-TO-XAP (1-800-468-6927)
    From outside the U.S., please call +1 (424) 750-3900

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