How to Become an Optician in Nebraska

Becoming an optician in Nebraska could be a good choice for those considering a new career.

This is an occupation where you help others see better, and there is an increased demand for these professionals.

Before taking any further steps, it’s crucial to acquaint yourself with the specific requirements outlined by the state.

Explore this article to gain insights into the training and licensing criteria essential for embarking on a career as an optician in Nebraska.

Optician Job Duties

Opticians have a crucial role in providing personalized eyewear solutions based on needs and style preferences.

Embarking on this career involves a daily routine that includes a range of responsibilities, such as:

• Preparing eyewear
• Fitting and adjusting eyewear
• Educating customers about eyewear issues and maintenance
• Keeping sales records
• Determining insurance co-pays
• Keeping the inventory
• Interacting with the labs that make lenses

Of course, based on where you get employed, your duties could slightly vary.

Optician Training in Nebraska

Meeting the educational requirements and acquiring an optician license necessitates enrolling in a structured program.

Nebraska doesn’t have schools providing specialized programs for future opticians, but online courses are available.

Otero College

Enrollment is open at any time, with no specific requirements.

However, it is recommended to have a high school diploma or its equivalent, which is the minimum requirement for the ABO exam.

Completion of the program leads to a certificate.

For those seeking a degree, there’s an option to sign up for the Bridge to Bachelor’s degree, either during enrollment or the first semester.

Confirmation of the inclusion of the optometry program can be obtained by checking with the college and the relevant department.

Borough of Manhattan Community College

This is a community college provides a 100% online course.

There are no fixed start dates and no specific requirements for enrollment.

This course prepares students for the ABO certification exam.

The topics covered in this class include:

• Simple math and algebra
• Soft contact lenses
• Gas-permeable contact lenses
• Legal responsibilities and ethics
• The parts of the eye
• Refractive errors
• Strabismus and amblyopia
• Other common ocular conditions
• Prism basics

Admission criteria for each educational institution are distinct, usually mandating:

• Possession of a high school diploma or GED
• Successful completion of specific classes with a minimum grade of C
• Submission of two letters of recommendation
• OAT scores (not older than 5 years)
• Maintenance of a minimum GPA of 2.75

In Nebraska, aspiring opticians have the flexibility to opt for either internship or externship opportunities, tailoring their choice based on individual needs.

Program durations can vary, ranging from a concise 6 months to an extended 4-year period.

The curriculum of these training programs covers a diverse array of courses, including:

• Introduction to Optometry
• Ocular Anatomy
• Systems 1: Neuroscience
• Ocular Microbiology
• Ophthalmic Imaging
• Public Health Optometry
• Glaucoma
• Physics

Engaging in such a program meets educational prerequisites and also provides aspiring opticians with a thorough comprehension of the field.

Certification or Licensure for an Optician in Nebraska

Completing your training program is the initial milestone for becoming eligible for the optician exam.

To qualify for the exam, you must meet one of the following requirements:

• Possession of a license in a reciprocal state
• Accumulation of at least 3 years of experience
• Completion of a 3-year apprenticeship within the past 6 years
• Employment as an optician in a state without licensing requirements
• Graduation from an approved post-secondary optician program with a year of apprenticeship

Additionally, you will need to successfully pass the National Opticianry Competency Examination (NOCE), which is structured into three difficulty levels:

• Beginner
• Intermediate
• Advanced

The Beginner level of the ABO exam covers subjects like:

• Reading prescriptions,
• Fitting and dispensing spectacles
• Using standard ophthalmic equipment

For those interested in dispensing contact lenses, it is necessary to undertake the National Contact Lens Examiners.

This involves the Contact Lens Registry Examination (CLRE) with a corresponding fee of $200, usually covered by the employer.

The CLRE addresses topics such as pre-fitting for lenses, diagnostic fitting, dispensing of lenses, patient education, delivery, and follow-up.

Critical documents for the application process include:

• Age over 18
• A high school diploma or GED
• To fill out an application
• To pay some fees
• A clean criminal record
• Passing the State Practical Examination
• Proof of completed training, education, or at least 3 years of experience

Optician Certification Renewal

Your optician license in Nebraska will remain valid for 24 months.

Upon expiration, you must renew it to continue working.

The renewal process involves completing 44 additional hours of education.

Optician Salary in Nebraska

In Nebraska, opticians earn approximately $49,800 per year.

At the national level, the median salary is somewhat higher.

However, opticians hold an entry-level job and thus the income is pretty high compared to other similar positions.

Regional Salary in Nebraska

Optician Schools by State