Optician Programs in Phoenix, Arizona

Becoming an Optician in Phoenix, Arizona

Are you considering a career as an Optician in Phoenix, Arizona? This guide will walk you through the essential steps to becoming an Optician, including the educational paths, training programs, and certification requirements. Opticians, also known as Optical Technicians, play a crucial role in eye care, assisting customers with selecting and fitting eyeglasses and contact lenses. While formal education is not mandatory, pursuing Optician programs can enhance your skills and career prospects.

About Phoenix

Phoenix, the capital of Arizona, is a bustling city known for its year-round sun and warm temperatures. As the fifth-largest city in the United States, Phoenix offers a diverse cultural scene, vibrant neighborhoods, and numerous outdoor activities. For more information about the city, visit the official Phoenix website.

Optician Training Programs in Phoenix, Arizona

While there are no specific Optician programs within Phoenix, several nearby institutions offer relevant courses:

1. Pima Medical Institute – Mesa Campus
   Located approximately 20 miles from Phoenix, Pima Medical Institute offers an Optical/Optometric Assistant program. This program provides foundational knowledge in optical dispensing and prepares students for entry-level positions in the field. For more details, visit the Pima Medical Institute’s program page.

2. Gateway Community College
   Situated in Phoenix, Gateway Community College offers courses related to optical technology as part of their broader health sciences curriculum. While not a dedicated Optician program, these courses can be beneficial for those seeking to enter the optical field. Explore more at Gateway Community College’s website.

3. Arizona College of Allied Health – Glendale
   Approximately 10 miles from Phoenix, this college offers a Medical Assistant program with courses in optical care, providing a stepping stone for those interested in becoming Opticians. Visit Arizona College’s website for more information.

Optician Employment Opportunities in Phoenix

Phoenix hosts several major optical retailers and healthcare facilities with optical departments:

1. LensCrafters
   Located in the Biltmore Fashion Park neighborhood, LensCrafters is a leading eyewear retailer offering various employment opportunities for Opticians. Check out their career page for current openings.

2. Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center
   With multiple locations in Phoenix, this eye care center provides comprehensive services and employs Opticians to assist with patient care. Learn more about their opportunities on the Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center careers page.

3. Phoenix Children’s Hospital
   Located in the Encanto Village neighborhood, this hospital has an optical department that offers positions for Opticians. Visit the Phoenix Children’s Hospital careers page for more information.

Prerequisites for Optician Programs

To enroll in an Optician program, applicants typically need a high school diploma or GED. Some programs may require a minimum age of 18, entrance exams, or a background check. It’s essential to check the specific requirements of each program before applying.

Licensure Requirements in Arizona

To become a licensed Optician in Arizona, candidates must meet several requirements:

• Education and Training: While a formal degree is not mandatory, completing an accredited optical dispensing program and an apprenticeship is beneficial.
• Experience: Three years of experience as an Optician, including an apprenticeship, within the past six years is required.
• Examinations: Passing the National Opticianry Competency Examination (NOCE) and the Contact Lens Registry Examination (CLRE) is necessary.
• Practical Exams: Successful completion of practical exams in spectacles and contact lenses.
• Application: Submit a completed application with a $100 fee, recent photo, employment verification, and letters of good moral character.
• Background Check: A criminal background check is required.

For more details, visit the Arizona State Board of Dispensing Opticians.

Licensure Reciprocity

Arizona offers licensure reciprocity for Opticians licensed in other states with equivalent requirements. Applicants must provide verification from their current state’s licensing board.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as an Optician in Phoenix, Arizona, is a rewarding journey. With the right training and certification, you can join a dynamic field that combines healthcare and customer service. Contact a local school today to begin your path toward becoming an Optician.

For more information on the job outlook for Opticians, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics page on Opticians.