Vision Care Specialist - Spokane Community College

Vision Care Specialist from Spokane Community College is a Campus Certificate Health degree that prepares you for a Science career. Program Description A career in vision care offers a variety of job opportunities within the health care field. The one-year certificate program provides graduates with the skills necessary to assist practitioners of optometry, ophthalmology and opticianry to provide a full scope of vision care. The aging population needs have stimulated technical advancements in ophthalmic lens materials, new contact lens design and increased medical/surgical treatment procedures. This factor provides a special opportunity for those individuals who enjoy the challenge of keeping abreast of change. Students may earn a Vision Care Specialist Certificate by taking the three-quarter professional vision care curriculum. Graduates are prepared to sit for the nationally recognized Assistants Registry Exam (AOA). Those students wishing to pursue a Vision Care Technology AAS degree may take the additional three quarters of liberal arts curriculum. Each required course for the degree and/or the certificate must be completed with a 2.0 grade or better before proceeding to the next quarter. Program Goals Utilize business management skills as they relate to the vision care field. Compare different roles of the assistant in optometry, ophthalmology, and opticianry. Perform a variety of eye-testing skills to assist the practitioner in providing full range and high quality of vision care. Problem solve for each patient in clinical practice while performing clinical practice preliminary testing, contact lens evaluation and eyeglass dispensing. Analyze the professional and ethical practice of eye care. Develop a personal commitment to professional growth and development of lifelong learning. Career Opportunities Graduates of the program may work in general optometry offices, medical eye clincs or optical dispensaries, medical and optical equipment manufacturers and supply companies, pharmaceutical companies, research laboratories and universities. They may be hired to work in specific specialty areas that include contact lens clinics, low vision or pediatric orthoptic/visual therapy areas. In these practices, the technician conducts unique testing procedures and implements special patient instruction. With a year or more experience, technicians can usually qualify for openings anywhere in the nation, making job mobility an asset. View more details on Spokane Community College . Ask your questions and apply online for this program or find other related Health courses.