This major is a program that prepares individuals to assist optometrists in providing patient care, administering examinations and treatments, and performing office administrative functions.
Includes instruction in applied anatomy and physiology of the eye, visual testing, patient communication, patient preparation, medications, and administration, dispensing and fitting of eyeglasses and contact lenses, record-keeping, and office management skills
What can you do with a major/degree in Optometric Technician/Assistant Major?
As an Optometric Technician or Assistant your responsibilities include preparing examination areas and equipment and assisting the optometrist with patient exams. You may also perform recordkeeping duties and teach patient eye exercises and therapy. As well, you place orders for corrective lenses and then dispense these to patients.
Job opportunities for optometric technicians/assistants are good in the future as this career subsector is expected to see a four percent (4%) growth 2019-2029.
Most optometric technicians/assistants hold an associate degree. Some may enter the field with a certificate and learn on-the-job. There are certificate and associate programs available at community colleges, vocational schools, technical schools, and universities and take about 1-2 years to complete. Having a certificate is not mandatory to work in this capacity, however. Most programs have classroom and laboratory portions.
Trade Associations and Professional Organizations in Optometric Technician/Assistant 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.
- American Optometric Association
- American Optometric Student Association
- American Board of Opticianry
Publications/Magazines in Optometric Technician/Assistant Optician Major