Optometric Assistant/Dispensing Optician - Waiting List Only 2010

This 24-week course of study prepares the student for an entry level position in an optical laboratory, as an optometric assistant, as a dispensing optician, or as an assistant in an ophthalmologist’s office or clinic. The course covers the anatomy and physiology of the human eye, vision aids, common in-office surgeries, common conditions and diseases of the eye, optical law and ethics, and a core health class. Additionally, the course covers methods for fitting hard and soft contact lenses, use of the keratometer, use of optical and ophthalmic equipment for making complete pairs of glasses, and optical math, including slab-off, powers in various meridians, and vertex math.
24 Week Program / 720 Hours

Pre-requisites:
- High School Diploma or Equivalent (GED)
- Demonstration of a minimum of 10th grade proficiency in reading, language, and math
Requirements:
- Attend daily 8:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. (90% minimum attendance)
- Complete all classes with a minimum grade average of 80% (B) or better

Benefits:
- Graduates receive a Certificate of Completion as Optometric Assistant
- Graduates can receive job placement assistance
- Teachers providing vocational training have had work experience in related industry and/or business
- All teachers are credentialed by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing

Training Modules:
Lab Optician
Makes glasses in a lab; cuts, edges, tints, and coats lenses.
Dispensing Optician
Takes doctor’s prescriptions; helps patient select frames and lenses; dispenses contact lenses.
Optometric Assistant
Works with optometrist; does pretesting and general office duties.

The Assistant: A Profile
- Demonstrates initiative and responsibility
- Treats all patients with compassion
- Uses appropriate medical terminology
- Takes medical histories
- Works as a team member
- Assists with pretesting
- Maintains confidentiality
- Prepares patient for examination
- Assists patient with frame selection
- Follows federal, state and local legal guidelines
Required Orientation & Assessment
Every Wednesday 8:15 a.m.-11:00 a.m. in the Multi-Purpose Room.
Please bring your picture ID.
NO CHILDREN PLEASE.