Opticianry

Program Description

In the OPTD program, you’ll acquire the specialized knowledge and skills required to safely and competently dispense subnormal vision devices, contact lenses and eye glasses. You’ll also learn the basic science of sight and optics, and 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. Students are required to be highly literate in the English language and to have good writing and analytical skills to be successful in the Opticianry program. Objective tests designed to assess these skills may be administered.
• Applicant grades in pre-requisite subjects (or their equivalents) may also be used as a basis for the selection of candidates.

The Importance of Learning Skills:

Student success in college requires well developed learning skills (such as being able to work independently, participate in a team, be well-organized, develop good work habits, and show initiative). These skills are as important as prior academic achievement. While it is expected that applicants would have developed these skills through previous education and life experiences, Seneca offers support to assist students with further development of these important skills.

Your Career

Opticians are members of a health care delivery team who dispense eye glasses, contact lenses, and subnormal vision devices. Successfully complete this two-year diploma program and you’ll find career opportunities 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 a valuable experience that prepares you for your role as an optician. Practica are educational experiences in an environment which enhances 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 post-secondary institution(s):

Ontario

U.S.

Curriculum

Required for Graduation: A valid Emergency First Aid / Heartsaver Certificate.

Additional Graduation Requirements:

All students are required to complete Emergency First Aid/Heartsaver CPR "BLS-A" (St. John Ambulance, Canadian Red Cross, or equivalent). Certifications cannot expire during the calendar year of graduation. It is the responsibility of the student to provide proof of certification prior to graduation.

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