Optician
Course Id:   3096
Penn Foster Career School

Course Overview
InstitutionPenn Foster Career School
SubjectHealth and Medical Technology
Education LevelCertificate
Institution Websiteclick here
Help
Personal Learning CoachTMTo Be Assigned
PLC Emailplc@educere.net
PLC Toll-Free Number866.4EDUCERE (866.433.8237)
* Prospective NCAA Division I and II student-athletes should visit the NCAA Eligibility Center website (www.eligibilitycenter.org) and seek the NCAA's acceptance of a particular Education Provider's virtual course prior to registration.

Course Description
Introduction to Opticianry

This course is designed to introduce you to the field of opticianry and to members of the eye care team. You will learn about the history of opticianry, the qualifications and responsibilities of Opticians and other eye care professionals, and the different organizations, regulations, and standards that affect Opticians. You will also learn about effective study methods and how to apply them to this program.

Interpersonal Communication

This course provides an opportunity to improve your use of words, gestures, tone of voice, facial expressions, listening skills, and overall physical appearance to better communicate your message.

Math for Opticians

This course is designed to introduce you to the mathematical calculations performed in the opticianry profession. You will review both the English and metric systems of measurement, perform temperature conversions, use ratios and proportions to solve problems, and learn about variables and equations. You will also learn about decimals and signed arithmetic, and you will use a scientific calculator to perform common trigonometric calculations.

Word and Excel®

This course is an introduction to the basics of a personal computer, the Windows® operating system, and the Internet. You will learn PC applications in word processing spreadsheets.

Optical Principles, Terminology, and Anatomy

This course is designed to introduce you to basic optical principles and terminology, as well as the anatomy of the eye. You will learn about the properties of light; the characteristics of spectacle lenses used to correct vision; lens power, design, and prescriptions; common terminology used in the opticianry field; the different parts of the eye and their functions; and common disorders and diseases of the eye. You will also be introduced to the practicum requirements for the program.

Ophthalmic Dispensing 1

This course describes the basic skills and techniques required of an ophthalmic dispenser. You will learn how to interpret written prescriptions, take facial measurements, determine correct frame sizes, align and adjust frames, and perform minor repairs. (Required textbook provided with the course.)

Ophthalmic Dispensing 2

This course is designed to be a continuation of Ophthalmic Dispensing 1. Focus is on the theory of light, as well as lens power, design, materials, colors, safety, and edging. (Required textbook provided with the course.)

Contact Lens Dispensing

This course serves as an introduction to contact lens dispensing procedures. Focus is on the history of contact lenses; optical principles; keratometry and biomicroscopy; rigid versus soft contact lenses; contact lens manufacturing, inspection, and modification; patient delivery procedures and follow-up care; and extended wear contacts. (Required textbook provided with the course.)

Business English

This course provides instruction on the basic types of writing you'll encounter in a business environment. You'll learn about business letters, forms, client records, and memos; organization, grammar, punctuation, and sentence and paragraph construction; coherent paragraphs, well-organized documents, and purpose-focused materials; and accurate, attractive, and effective final copies.

Professional Practice

This course will help you prepare for employment as an optical dispenser and complete basic business tasks on the job. Focus is on professional appearance, confidentiality, professional organizations, continuing education, employment opportunities, interviewing techniques, record keeping, patient billing, frame board management, professional relationships, and customer service. (Certification exam preparation materials provided with the course.)

At the end of the program, you will receive a pass/fail grade for the clinical practicum.


Delivery Method
  • Internet
  • Real-Time Web-Based Teacher Access


  • Course Materials
    Penn Foster Career School will have course materials, if any, shipped directly to students. There is no additional cost for course materials.


    Courses and course detail are subject to change without notice.
    educere@educere.net
    toll-free 866.4EDUCERE (866.433.8237)
    telephone 215.283.0380
    fax 866.348.1050
    INC 1500 Educere LLC
    455 Pennsylvania Avenue, Suite 140
    Fort Washington PA, 19034
    Conditions of Use • Privacy Policy • Copyright © 2002 - 2024 Educere, LLC. • All Rights Reserved.