Does this course prepare for a certification?
Yes, you will be prepared to take the American Board of Opticianry (ABO) and National Contact Lens Examiners (NCLE) Basic certification exams - Opticianry Certification Exam (NOCE) and Contact Lens Registry Exam (CLRE).
How does this course prepare me to become an optician?
By taking this course, you will learn how to read prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses, become familiar with the equipment opticians use, and gain an understanding of eye anatomy and eye diseases. You will also learn various office responsibilities within an optometrist's office, including bookkeeping, tracking inventory and sales, and maintaining customer records (including payments and prescriptions).
After completing this course, you will be fully prepared to begin a career as an optician and have the skills and knowledge to advance as an optical manager in this popular and exciting medical field.
How much do opticians make?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the median salary for opticians is $38,530, with top professionals in this field making over $60,000 per year.
When can I start the course?
This course is open enrollment, so you can register and start the course as soon as you are ready. Access to your course can take 24-48 business hours.
How long does it take to complete this course?
This course is self-paced and open enrollment, so you can start when you want and finish at your own pace. When you register, you'll receive six (6) months to complete the course.
What if I don't have enough time to complete my course within the time frame provided?
The time allotted for course completion has been calculated based on the number of course hours. However, if you are unable to complete the course, contact the student advising team to see what options you may have available to work out a suitable completion date. Please note that an extension fee may be charged.
What kind of support will I receive?
Our courses are designed to accommodate various learning preferences. Depending on the course structure, you may get different forms of support. Self-paced courses are designed to be user-friendly and independent, minimizing the need for external support. In courses with instructors, our direct platform support feature includes opportunities for questions, discussions, and remediation, with email and phone support available for select courses. Our student advising team is available to guide you on program requirements and administrative requests, but they do not provide assistance with course content. Our goal is to provide you with the necessary support for success, whether it's through self-paced exploration, direct communication, or guidance from our advising team.
What happens when I complete the course?
Upon successful completion of the course, you will be awarded a Certificate of Completion.
Am I guaranteed a job?
This course will provide you with the skills you need to obtain an entry-level position in most cases. Potential students should always do research on the job market in their area before registering.
Can I get financial assistance?
This course is non-credit, so it does not qualify for federal aid, FAFSA and Pell Grant. In some states, vocational rehab or workforce development boards will pay for qualified students to take our courses. Additionally, some students may qualify for financial assistance when they enroll, if they meet certain requirements. Financing is available from select schools. Learn more about financial assistance.
How can I get more information about this course?
If you have questions that are not answered on our website, representatives are available via LIVE chat. You can also call us at 1-877-221-5151 during regular business hours to have your questions promptly answered. If you are visiting us during non-business hours, please send us a question using the "Contact Us" form.