How to Become an Optician in Ohio

Are you interested in working as an optician in Ohio?

In such a case, all you need to do is check out the article below.

You will learn more about the steps you need to take to start your career.

Optician Job Duties

A skilled optician not only excels in retaining devoted clients but also possesses the prowess to attract new ones consistently.

Some other optician duties include:

• Precision in eyeglass and contact lens fittings
• Guiding clients in the selection of the perfect frame
• Efficient management of inventory and sales records
• Expertly interpreting prescriptions
• Skillful repair of broken frames
• Seamless adjustment of eyeglasses for an impeccable fit
• Diligent tracking of orders

Optician Training in Ohio

To start your career, your first step involves enrolling in an optician training program.

This is typically offered by post-secondary schools.

Let’s see them!

Cuyahoga Community College

Cuhoya offers an Optical Technology program, preparing them for the licensure exams.

The advantages of this program are:

• Hands-on experience in Tri-C’s Optical Dispensary
• Paid internship experience
• Excellent employment and advancement opportunities
• Degree and certificate options

While most of these colleges often have higher tuition fees, Cuyahoga Community College stands out as an exception.

Hocking College

This college offers an Associate of Applied Science in Opticianry degree at its Perry Campus.

The programs last for 2 years.

The second year is dedicated to clinical practice, at local optical businesses.

Mercy University

Mercy University provides a unique 32-week program geared towards training individuals to become an ophthalmologist assistant.

You’ll be required to pass the OAT test first.

After you earn your undergraduate degree, 4 years of Doctor of Optometry degree follow.

Ohio State University

One class at this university has 68 students, thus the competition is high.

The tuition and other enrollment fees depend on whether you’re a citizen or a foreign student.

For instance, citizens have to pay $30,455  and non-residents will pay $51,511 as tuition.

The university has some indirect costs for 9 months, and they split as follows:

• Residents – $27,134
• Non-Residents – $27,842

Each school may have distinct enrollment prerequisites, typically including:

• 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 exceeding 5 years old)
• A minimum GPA of 2.75

Optician training programs generally span 7 months, featuring a comprehensive curriculum covering subjects like:

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

Choose your educational path wisely, as this foundation sets the stage for a fulfilling career in opticianry.

Certification or Licensure for an Optician in Ohio

Once you complete training, the next step is taking an examination and fulfilling one of the criteria outlined below:

• Possession of a license in a reciprocal state
• Accumulation of a minimum of 3 years of practical experience
• Completion of a 3-year apprenticeship within the past 6 years
• Previous work experience as an optician in a state with no licensing requirements
• Graduation from an accredited post-secondary optician program with a year of apprenticeship

The National Opticianry Competency Examination (NOCE) administered by the ABO is a necessary exam for future opticians.

This examination is structured across three difficulty levels: Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced.

At the Beginner level, proficiency in tasks including: 

• Read prescriptions,
• Fit and dispensing spectacles
• Use standard ophthalmic equipment

A requisite $200 examination fee is applicable for this level.

Opticians who want to dispense contact lenses need to pass the National Contact Lens Examiners.

The employing company typically covers the accompanying $200 examination fee.

The examination subjects cover a comprehensive spectrum, including pre-fitting for lenses, diagnostic fitting, dispensing of lenses, patient education, delivery, and follow-up.

Document submission is another crucial step, necessitating:

• Confirmation of age over 18
• Possession of a high school diploma or GED
• Completion of an application form
• Payment of requisite fees
• Demonstration of a clean criminal record
• Successful completion of the State Practical Examination
• Evidence of completed training, education, or a minimum of 3 years of experience

Optician Certification Renewal

In Ohio, maintaining your optician certification mandates regular updates, achieved through license renewal.

This entails attending additional classes, and ensuring your knowledge and skills remain current.

Keep in mind that these classes offer a continuous avenue for professional development.

Optician Salary in Ohio

Should you find yourself residing in the bustling urban landscapes of Ohio’s larger cities, the potential earnings in the field of opticianry are around $52,000 per year.

Check out the table below to find out more about optician salaries in Ohio.

Regional Salary in Ohio

Optician Schools by State