Ophthalmic Technician

Ophthalmic Technician

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Department: Ophthalmic Technician

Program Type: Health Professions

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Overview

Ophthalmology is a rapidly growing field that offers exciting opportunities for skilled and responsible technicians like you. As an Ophthalmic Technician, you play a vital role in helping ophthalmologists care for and treat patients’ eyes and vision. You may conduct preliminary eye exams, assess eye muscle movement, and collect medical histories. You might also administer eye medications and assist ophthalmologists during surgical procedures.

You can work in various settings, including private practices, medical centers, hospitals, and university clinics. In each environment, you collaborate closely with ophthalmologists to provide medical and surgical eye care for patients of all ages.

Prepare for Immediate Employment

Employment opportunities for opticians are expected to grow about 3 percent from 2024 to 2034, which is roughly as fast as the average for all occupations.

Graduates will be able to:

  • Conduct comprehensive eye exams and take patient histories.
  • Identify common ocular diseases and conditions.
  • Administer ocular medications safely and competently.
  • Use ophthalmic instruments and equipment proficiently, including slit lamps, lensometers, and tonometers.
  • Conduct essential diagnostic tests such as visual field testing and refraction.
  • Complete the JCAHPO Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT) examinations.

Plan of Study and Course Descriptions

Review the ECC catalog for details about the ophthalmic technician plan of study and course descriptions.

Associate of Applied Science

Ophthalmic Technician Information Session

Ophthalmic technicians assist ophthalmologists in caring for patients' eyes and eyesight. Learn how ECC’s program will prepare you to work in this rapidly expanding field.

Program Courses

The curriculum includes foundational coursework in ophthalmic technology, clinical optics, pharmacology, and hands-on clinical experience. Courses are designed to develop the knowledge and skills necessary for certification and professional practice. View our courses here.

Special Requirements: Students must complete a criminal background check, a drug test, a physical exam, immunity lab tests, a TB test, health insurance verification, uniform procurement, submit a social security card, and obtain Basic Life Support (BLS) CPR certification.

Frequently Asked Questions

The program is a two-year Associate of Applied Science degree that includes clinical experiences and career support to prepare you for certification and employment.

ECC offers a new, state-of-the-art lab with modern equipment and clinical spaces overseen by a credentialed ophthalmologist. Graduates are prepared to take the Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT) exam.

They assist ophthalmologists with eye exams, diagnostic testing, patient education, surgical preparation, and equipment maintenance.

Graduates can work in private practices, clinics, or medical centers.

Certification isn’t always required, but it is highly recommended and often preferred by employers. ECC prepares students for the JCAHPO Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT) exam.

Recorded Information Sessions

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Contact

Admissions & Recruitment

Building B, Room B110
847-214-7385
Fax: 847-608-5458
admissions@elgin.edu

Hours
Monday through Thursday: 8 am to 7 pm
Fridays: 8 am to 4 pm

*Bilingual Admissions Coordinator: 847-214-7689

Contact

Ophthalmic Technician Program

Building A, Room A362
847-214-7342
eyetechinfo@elgin.edu