Opticianry Program

Career Facts

• What does an Optician do?
• What is the average salary range for an Optician?
• What type of training is required to become an Optician in Rhode Island?

What does an Optician do?

The day to day responsibilities of Dispensing Opticians include, but are not limited to, the fitting and fabrication of optical frames and lenses, helping patients decide on the correct frames for their prescription with fashion in mind, determining the best or needed types of lens products for a patient whose prescription you are filling, and daily management of an Optical practice.

An Optician can work as an independent practitioner, or can work for an Ophthalmologist, Optometrist, or for any type of business where the dispensing of eyewear is needed. As an Optician you are not held only to dispensing and fitting eyewear, but can branch into sales of frames, lenses, and machinery, or into the management end of Opticianry.

What is the average salary range for an Optician?

Salary ranges for Opticians will vary according to experience and the type of employment setting. A new graduate who has obtained licensure can make approximately $31,000.00 - $35,000.00 per year, or more, depending on the state and venue in which they are employed. Experienced Opticians will make approximately $35,000.00 - $52,000.00 per year depending on the state and venue in which they are employed.

What type of training is required to become an Optician in Rhode Island?

The Opticianry program at CCRI was designed to provide the necessary education needed to apply for licensure in Rhode Island and nationally. Individuals who successfully complete the Opticianry courses at CCRI will receive an Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree. The program at CCRI is designed around the National Federation of Opticianry Schools (NFOS) program used in many colleges around the country.

To apply for licensure in Rhode Island, candidates are required to graduate from a 2 year Opticianry program. Students must then successfully complete the National Opticianry Competency Examination (NOCE) administered by the American Board of Opticianry (ABO) as well as successfully completing a regional practical examination.