Ophthalmic Technician, A.A.S.

Degree: Associate of Applied Science
Major: Ophthalmic Technician

For more information, contact the Health Sciences division at 615-230-3330.

This program is designed to prepare the student to act as an entry level ophthalmic technician. Duties of the ophthalmic technician generally include, but are not limited to: recording of case histories, visual acuity measurement, visual field testing, refractometry, contact lenses, caring for and maintaining ophthalmic instruments, and assisting the doctor in the setup and performance of minor ophthalmic surgery. This program has received accreditation through the International Council of Accreditation (ICA).

Admission to the program is limited and on a competitive basis. Screening for fall entry will take place in the summer. Admission into the program is contingent upon completion of all general education course requirements in addition to AHC 115*, COMM 2025 or COMM 2045, and OPHT 1205, with a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher in the required general education and pre-requisite courses.  Once students are admitted to the program, three consecutive semesters of intensive full-time study are required for graduation.  For more information refer to the Health Sciences Associate of Applied Science Degrees section in the Catalog.

All students graduating with a degree from VSCC are required to take the E-Proficiency Profile (EPP) to meet graduation requirements. More information can be found at https://www.volstate.edu/graduation/exit-exams.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the graduate will have developed the skills, knowledge and abilities to accomplish the following:

1. Graduates will utilize and apply their knowledge of ophthalmic technology to solve problems in a clinical setting.

2. Graduates of the program will assume positions as entry-level technicians in a variety of eye-care settings.

3. Graduates will perform ophthalmic skills at the technician level with competency and safety as defined by national certification and accreditation standards set forth by JCAHPO and ICA.

4. Graduates of the program will be able to perform patient testing and demonstrate proper documentation in the patient record.

5. Graduates will demonstrate proficiency with the terminology and abbreviations used within the field of ophthalmic technology.

6. Graduates will demonstrate and apply their knowledge of the rules and regulations of the boards and agencies involved in the field of ophthalmic technology.

CIP Code: (31) 51.1803.00    SOC Code: 31-9092