Associate of Applied Science
Ophthalmic
Dispensing
This is a Limited-Entry Program, interested students
residing in the Las Vegas Metropolitan area must attend a
Health Programs
Orientations.
Nature of Work
Ophthalmic dispensers (opticians) perform a a broad range of tasks in vision care facilities. A major task performed by this professional is manufacturing lenses for prescription eye-glasses. They cut, grind, edge, and finish lenses according to specifications. Ophthalmic dispensers may also fit eyeglasses and contact lenses by filling written prescriptions by ophthalmologists or optometrists or by neutralizing existing eyewear to make duplicates of spectacle lenses. Often they help customers select the appropriate frames, lenses, and lens coatings. Dispensers also:
- Fix, adjust and refit broken frames.
- Instruct clients about adapting to, wearing, and caring for eyeglasses.
- Keep records on customer prescriptions, work orders, and payments.
- Some dispensers specialize in fitting contacts, artificial eyes or cosmetic shells that cover blemished eyes.
Employment for ophthalmic dispensers is expected to increase faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2005. An increase in demand for corrective lenses is expected due to growth in the population of middle-aged and older adults. Most new jobs will be in retail optical chains that manufacture prescription glasses on the premises and provide fast service.
Program Description
The Ophthalmic Dispensing program at CSN is a two-year program of study leading to an Associate of Applied Science Degree. The curriculum provides didactic and clinical or hands-on training. It offers the student the opportunity to become proficient in all phases of opthalmic dispensing.
Accreditation
The Ophthalmic Dispensing program received accreditation from the Commission on Opticianry Accreditation in Novermber of 2001.
Ophthalmic Dispensing at CSN (AAS)
Program Course Sheet
and Application Deadlines
Career Guide and Approximate Costs
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in order to view and print
the above form(s). If you do not already have it on your computer,
click on the logo for the free download.)
Admission Requirements
This is a Limited Entry Program. Therefore, an application for admission must be submitted by the application deadline and all prerequisite requirements must be completed by the completion deadline in order to be eligible for consideration. This material is reviewed using selection criteria set by the program. Applicants are notified of their standing by the Limited Entry office.
Ophthalmic
Community Service Documentation Form
Ophthalmic Experience
Documentation Form
Students First Checklist
New students planning to register for courses at CSN must follow the steps outlined on the Students First Checklist. This checklist provides information on the registration process for new students seeking a Limited-Entry Health Science Degree or Certificate.
How to Transfer Credits to CSN From Other Colleges
For further information, contact the Health Programs Advisement office. Additionally, it is very important that interested students attend an orientation as soon as possible for complete admissions information. Program orientations are held weekly. You can call (702)651-5015 for pre-recorded orientation information.
If you require other information, please e-mail the Health Programs Advisor directly.
CSN Home Page
This page last modified: 12/07