Optician

Program Outline

Instruction Sets
Your program consists of courses designed to take you step-by-step through the techniques and skills you'll employ in your new career as an Optician.

Upon completing your basic skills assessments, your first course will be sent immediately. Other courses will follow as you complete your exams, so that you will always have training materials to work with.

Computer Specifications
You will need access to a Microsoft® Windows®-based computer running Windows® XP or later and high-speed Internet in order to complete your program with Penn Foster.

Online Library and Librarian
Students in Penn Foster Career School have access to an online library for use during their studies. Students can use this library to do the required research in the courses they complete or can use it for general reference and links to valuable resources. The library contains helpful research assistance, articles, databases, books, and Web links. A librarian is available to answer questions on general research-related topics via email and to assist students in research activities during their studies with Penn Foster Career School.

Basic Skills Assessment

All students are required to complete two Basic Skills Assessments, one in reading and one in math, to determine the level of readiness for beginning their selected program. Additional studies may be required.

ALH020: Introduction to Opticianry

This course is designed to introduce you to the field of opticianry and to members of the eye care team. You will learn about the history of opticianry, the qualifications and responsibilities of Opticians and other eye care professionals, and the different organizations, regulations, and standards that affect Opticians. You will also learn about effective study methods and how to apply them to this program.

HUM106: Interpersonal Communication

This course provides an opportunity to improve your use of words, gestures, tone of voice, facial expressions, listening skills, and overall physical appearance to better communicate your message.

ALH022: Math for Opticians

This course is designed to introduce you to the mathematical calculations performed in the opticianry profession. You will review both the English and metric systems of measurement, perform temperature conversions, use ratios and proportions to solve problems, and learn about variables and equations. You will also learn about decimals and signed arithmetic, and you will use a scientific calculator to perform common trigonometric calculations.

CSC102: Word and Excel®

This course is an introduction to the basics of a personal computer, the Windows® operating system, and the Internet. You will learn PC applications in word processing spreadsheets.

ALH023: Optical Principles, Terminology, and Anatomy

This course is designed to introduce you to basic optical principles and terminology, as well as the anatomy of the eye. You will learn about the properties of light; the characteristics of spectacle lenses used to correct vision; lens power, design, and prescriptions; common terminology used in the opticianry field; the different parts of the eye and their functions; and common disorders and diseases of the eye. You will also be introduced to the practicum requirements for the program.

ALH024: Ophthalmic Dispensing 1

This course describes the basic skills and techniques required of an ophthalmic dispenser. You will learn how to interpret written prescriptions, take facial measurements, determine correct frame sizes, align and adjust frames, and perform minor repairs. (Required textbook provided with the course.)

ALH025: Ophthalmic Dispensing 2

This course is designed to be a continuation of Ophthalmic Dispensing 1. Focus is on the theory of light, as well as lens power, design, materials, colors, safety, and edging. (Required textbook provided with the course.)

ALH026: Contact Lens Dispensing

This course serves as an introduction to contact lens dispensing procedures. Focus is on the history of contact lenses; optical principles; keratometry and biomicroscopy; rigid versus soft contact lenses; contact lens manufacturing, inspection, and modification; patient delivery procedures and follow-up care; and extended wear contacts. (Required textbook provided with the course.)

ENG010: Business English

This course provides instruction on the basic types of writing you’ll encounter in a business environment. You’ll learn about business letters, forms, client records, and memos; organization, grammar, punctuation, and sentence and paragraph construction; coherent paragraphs, well-organized documents, and purpose-focused materials; and accurate, attractive, and effective final copies.

ALH027: Professional Practice

This course will help you prepare for employment as an optical dispenser and complete basic business tasks on the job. Focus is on professional appearance, confidentiality, professional organizations, continuing education, employment opportunities, interviewing techniques, record keeping, patient billing, frame board management, professional relationships, and customer service. (Certification exam preparation materials provided with the course.)

At the end of the program, you will receive a pass/fail grade for the clinical practicum.

 

Please Note: This program requires students to complete a six-month (120 hour) practicum in an optical dispensary, laboratory, and contact lens practice. Students will receive instruction under the direct supervision of a licensed and/or certified optician. Students are instructed to find a clinical site within their local community to complete the practicum. Potential clinical sites include an optician’s office or laboratory, an optometric or ophthalmic practice that contains an optical dispensary, a hospital that contains an eye clinic, and a retail optical business. It is highly recommended that students locate a clinical site before enrolling in the program.

Twenty-one states require the passing of at least one of the following examinations for licensure of opticians: American Board of Opticianry (ABO) certification exam, National Contact Lens Examiners (NCLE) certification exam, and a state practical examination. Twenty-five states have no state board or licensing requirements. (Specific state licensing requirements can be found on the Opticians Association of America website: http://www.oaa.org/index.php?id=24.)*

This program requires students to enroll in a six-month (120-hour) practicum during the course of their studies.

A High School Diploma or GED is required to enroll in this program.

Microsoft, Windows, and Excel are trademarks of Microsoft Corporation registered in the United States of America and/or other jurisdictions.

We reserve the right to change program content and materials when it becomes necessary.