Be at the forefront of eye care practice, working as part of a multi-disciplinary vision care team. Students will study ocular pathology, refracting and pharmacology, as well as business and retail aspects of the profession.

The Optician program is two years in length and trains students to be at the forefront of eye care practice, working as part of a multi-disciplinary vision care team.

Students will study ocular pathology, refracting and pharmacology, as well as business and retail aspects of the profession. Application of the theory will be demonstrated through clinical competencies focusing on refraction, filling eyeglass and contact lens prescriptions, ensuring a proper fit, and determining clients’ eyewear needs.

These skills, along with business and retail skills, will be practiced and demonstrated in a dynamic, patient-centred environment.

Is this the right fit for me?
Students with higher secondary or post-secondary marks usually experience greater success in SAIT’s programs.

Students who experience success in this program have effective communication skills in English.

Health care practitioners are detail-oriented in the care they provide and enjoy working in a team environment.

Interest in science, health, and technology is essential for success in this program.

Accreditation
The Optician program delivered by SAIT is aligned with the competencies outlined by the National Alliance of Canadian Optician Regulators (NACOR) guidelines and will seek accreditation with Accreditation Canada starting in 2020/21.

Additionally, graduates will be prepared to challenge the National Alliance of Canadian Optician Regulators (NACOR) exam and obtain a dual license as both a dispensing optician and a contact lens fitter.

Credentials
Upon successful completion of this program, graduates will be awarded a SAIT Optician Diploma.

Graduates can pursue job opportunities in optical retail stores or a variety of other medical settings. Potential positions include:

optician
contact lens practitioner
Related careers include:

ophthalmic medical personnel
optical laboratory technician
optometrist