Opticianry

Program Description

This program is designed to provide students with an opportunity to acquire the specialized knowledge and skills required to safely and competently dispense subnormal vision devices, contact lenses and eye glasses. Students will gain knowledge in the basic science of sight and optics, as well as develop practical spectacle fabrication and dispensing skills.

Admission Requirements

Program Eligibility:

• Ontario Secondary School Diploma with a majority of senior credits at the College Preparation (C), University Preparation (U) or University/College Preparation (M) level or Mature Student Status (age 19 or older). ALL applicants must have completed the following subjects (or their equivalents):
  • Grade 12 English: ENG4(C) or ENG4(U)
  • Any Grade 12 Science (C or U) or Grade 11 Biology (C)
  • Grade 12 Mathematics: (C) or (U)

Applicant Selection:

• New students are accepted into the Opticianry program in the fall semester ONLY. A mandatory orientation session is held in the spring or summer, prior to the Fall semester, where incoming students must pass mandatory admissions testing in Mathematics and English.

Your Career

Opticians are members of a health care delivery team who dispense eye glasses, contact lenses, and subnormal vision devices. Employment opportunities are available in retail optical dispensaries, contact lens clinics, as well as medical clinics in Ontario, across Canada, and internationally.

Practicum Requirements

The practicum portion of the Opticianry Program is designed to prepare the students for their role as an optician. Practica are defined as educational experiences in an environment which augments the academic program and contributes to students’ practical education. A total of 1,000 hours of dispensary experiences are divided into three levels, which are scheduled at pertinent stages of the program, a designated number of which must be completed in the Seneca College Vision Clinic. Procuring suitable placement for practicum is the responsibility of the student. The College will assist by posting employment opportunities received. The student must report to the College any changes in placement location or supervising optician.

Provincial Registration

In order to practice in Ontario as a "Registered Optician", graduates must be successful in a registration examination, amongst other requirements, for entry in the College of Opticians of Ontario (COO). Seneca's Opticianry program is recognized by the College of Opticians of Ontario. For more information, please visit www.coptont.org.

Diploma to Degree... and Beyond

Through transfer agreements and institution partnerships, graduates of this Seneca College program may be eligible for credit at the following university:

Curriculum

* These subjects may be taken at any time throughout the program.

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