This major is a program that prepares individuals to assist ophthalmologists and optometrists in examining and treating patients with vision problems, vision disorders, and eye diseases.
Includes instruction in taking patient histories, administering directed treatments and topical medications, diagnostic test procedures and equipment operation, anatomical and functional ocular measurements, patient care and instruction, ophthalmic and surgical equipment maintenance, safety and sterilization procedures, and office administrative procedures.
What can you do with a major/degree in Ophthalmic Technician/Technologist Major?
As an Ophthalmic Technician/Technologist, it is your job to cut, grind, and polish eyeglasses, contact lenses, or other precision optical elements. Assemble and mount lenses into frames or process other optical elements. Includes precision lens polishers or grinders, centerer-edgers, and lens mounters.
The job opportunity outlook for ophthalmic technicians/technologists is very good as this career subsector is expected to see a nine percent (9%) increase 2019-2029.
A high school diploma or equivalent is generally the minimum educational requirement to enter this career area. Most learn their duties through on-the-job training. They usually begin as helpers in a laboratory and learn more advanced skills as they gain experience. There are some postsecondary programs in ophthalmic technology at community colleges or technical or vocational schools that award an associate degree or postsecondary certificate.
Trade Associations and Professional Organizations in Ophthalmic Technician/Technologist Major
Professional associations are groups of professionals dedicated to topics in specific fields. Professional associations provide a wealth of online resources, some of which are geared specifically towards students. These organizations typically also host conferences and events, providing great opportunities for learning and networking across your field of interest.
Publications/Magazines in Ophthalmic Technician/Technologist Major