Applicant
Optician
Optometric/Ophthalmic
Technician
Employment
Certification
Certificate Program
Associate Program
Requirements
Cost
How to Apply

Fall Semester

OPTS 1311 - The Visual System (3-0)

Overview of the ophthalmic field including the anatomy and physiology of the eye, related structures, and the visual system.

OPTS 2341 - Ophthalmic Techniques (2-4)

Presentation of information and practical training in the techniques necessary to properly assist the refractionist or eye physician. Topics include visual acuity assessments and performance of various diagnostic tests.

OPTS 1309 - Ophthalmic Laboratory I (2-4)

Course emphasis is on the finishing portion (bench) of the fabrication of spectacles. Topics include mark-up, blocking, edging, beveling, impact resistance, tinting, insertion, and inspection of single vision and multi-focal lenses.

OPTS 1305 - Geometric Optics (3-0)

Introduction to the history and physics of the electromagnetic spectrum with emphasis on the reflection and refraction of light from flat and curved mirrors, prisms, and single and compound lens systems.

OPTS 1501 - Ophthalmic Dispensing (4-3)

Introduction to the basic principles of frame selection, styling, refractive errors, and lens design and to the use of tools and instruments used to measure and make adjustments necessary to properly dispense spectacles.

OPTS 1315 - Basic Contact Lenses (2-2)

Introduction to contact lens theory and practice. Topics include the history, development, and manufacture of contact lenses; lens materials, designs, fitting, and care techniques; and skills necessary for the accurate measurement of lens parameters.

Spring Semester

OPTS 2345 - Advanced Ophthalmic Techniques (2-4)

A continuation of Ophthalmic Techniques. Introduces the student to aseptic and non-aseptic sterilization techniques used in the surgical field and provides knowledge and practice in scrubbing techniques used when assisting during ophthalmic surgical procedures.

OPTS 2531 - Advanced Ophthalmic Dispensing (5-1)

Advanced study of the procedures necessary to dispense. Topics include lens aberrations, magnification, tilt, reflection, absorption and transmission, advanced lens materials, high-powered prescription considerations, and partial vision.

OPTS 1349 - Ophthalmic Laboratory II (2-4)

Formulas and techniques needed to surface single vision and multi-focal lenses. Topics include calculation or use of a computer software program to determine the information used in conjunction with ophthalmic lens machines, the use of ophthalmic lens machines, and instruments used to grind, fire, and polish lenses.

OPTS 2335 - Advanced Contact Lenses (2-2)

Emphasizes the knowledge and skills necessary to assist the practitioner in the dispensing, evaluation, and care of soft, rigid, toric, multi-focal, therapeutic, and other specialty contact lenses.

OPTS 2166 - Ophthalmic Practicum I (0-7)

This Practicum is designed to offer real life applications of the ophthalmic skills developed in the Vision Care Technology program to this point. The student acquires practical hands on training under direct supervision and assistance of faculty personnel. Students rotate assignments in dispensing, fabrication and assisting.

OPTS 1219 - Ophthalmic Office Procedures (2-0)

Overview of office procedures and forms used in an optometric, ophthalmological, or optical retail office. Emphasis on government, third party, and other managed care insurance claim forms, maintenance of patient records, safety regulations, and professional conduct and ethics.

Summer Session

OPTS 2266 - Ophthalmic Practicum II (0-30) (8 weeks)

This Practicum is designed as a capstone for the certificate and offers the student specialized training and experience in a clinical setting in an optometric/ophthalmic practice functioning in the business community. The students will rotate to several practices that include optometry, ophthalmology, independent opticianry, and optical chain stores.

39 total semester hours in certificate program