Licensed Dispensing Optician, AAS

Program Description

The Licensed Dispensing Optician apprenticeship program will help you develop skills necessary to deal effectively with an increasingly complex eye care business environment and aid in developing the skills necessary to pass the Washington State Optician Board Examination. Highline offers one online class per quarter with hands-on modules designed for you to supplement your learning or learn new skills.

Learning Outcomes

• Analyze and interpret prescriptions for vision correction.
• Prepare materials and demonstrate procedures necessary to fit and dispense spectacles, lenses and other ophthalmic duties including the ability to perform mathematical calculations to verify the accuracy of the finished product as well as achieve customer/patient satisfaction.
• Fit and dispense contact lenses using accurate measurements, patient history, and awareness of variables presented by each individual prescription.
• Operate and maintain ophthalmic equipment using calibration in accordance with manufacturers’ specifications and all applicable laws and regulations.
• Perform administrative duties professionally maintaining currency and accuracy.
• Use active listening and service orientation skills to interact effectively on an interpersonal level with diverse groups (customers and co-workers).

Requirements

• Some or all of the following are required. Talk to a faculty adviser.
• Some classes may have entry requirements not listed here.
• Keyboarding and basic computer skills.
• Apprentice optician student must:
• Have a qualified job in an optical retail store or clinic
• Hold a high school diploma or GED and be at least 18 years old