Dispensing Opticians

High School

A high school diploma is necessary to enter an apprenticeship or other training program in opticianry. If you are interested in this work, you should take courses such as algebra, geometry, trigonometry, basic anatomy, biology, and physics while in high school. Also, be sure to take English, speech, writing, and foreign language classes to hone your written and oral communication skills.

Postsecondary Training

While a number of dispensing opticians learn their skills on the job, many learn their work by completing apprenticeship programs. In addition, some employers prefer to hire those with associate's degrees, and this may be an increasing trend. The Commission on Opticianry Accreditation has accredited about 20 associate's degree and certificate programs that lead to work as a dispensing optician. Visit http://coaccreditation.com/directory-of-programs to view the list. Associate's degree holders are able to advance more rapidly than those who complete an apprenticeship program. Two-year optician programs are offered at community colleges and trade schools and include courses on mechanical optics, geometric optics, ophthalmic dispensing procedures, contact lens practice, business concepts, communications, mathematics, and laboratory work in grinding and polishing procedures.

Some dispensing opticians complete an apprenticeship program that is offered by optical dispensing companies. These apprenticeships include some of the same subjects as those covered in the two-year associate's degree program and may take two to four years to complete. Some specialized training programs may be offered by contact lens manufacturers and professional societies. These are generally shorter and usually cover a particular area of technical training, such as contact lens fitting.

Certification

Some colleges and universities offer certificate programs in vision care technology and related fields. Programs typically last six months to a year and are available in online, in-person, and hybrid formats. Contact schools in your area to learn about available programs.

Other Education or Training

The National Academy of Opticianry offers home study and online courses that can be used toward credit requirements for certification. Recent classes included Visual Assessment Testing Procedures, Lens Materials and Design, Build Your People Skills with Emotional Intelligence, Management for Optical Retailers, Professional Optical Selling, and Marketing for Optical Retailers. The United Opticians Association also provides continuing education opportunities. Contact these organizations for more information.