Optician Programs in Hempstead, New York
Becoming an Optician in Hempstead, New York
Are you considering a career as an Optician in Hempstead, New York? This guide will walk you through the steps to become a certified Optician, including educational paths, local training programs, and employment opportunities. Opticians, also known as Optical Technicians, are professionals who fit eyeglasses and contact lenses, following prescriptions from ophthalmologists and optometrists. There are several paths to becoming an Optician, including completing a formal education program or an apprenticeship.
About Hempstead
Hempstead, located in Nassau County, New York, is a bustling town known for its rich history and diverse community. It offers a blend of suburban and urban living with access to numerous amenities and cultural landmarks. For more information about Hempstead, visit the official Hempstead website.
Optician Training Programs in Hempstead, New York
While there are no Optician programs directly in Hempstead, the nearby city of New York offers several options:
- New York City College of Technology (CUNY)
- Location: Downtown Brooklyn
- Program: Offers an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree in Vision Care Technology. This program is accredited and provides comprehensive training in ophthalmic dispensing.
- Program Information
- Erie Community College
- Location: Buffalo, NY (approximately 400 miles from Hempstead)
- Program: Offers an Ophthalmic Dispensing AAS degree, focusing on both theoretical and practical aspects of optical technology.
- Program Information
- Monroe Community College
- Location: Rochester, NY (approximately 350 miles from Hempstead)
- Program: Provides an AAS degree in Optical Technology, preparing students for careers as licensed opticians.
- Program Information
Optician Employment Opportunities in Hempstead
Hempstead and its surrounding areas offer various employment opportunities for Opticians:
- LensCrafters
- Location: Roosevelt Field Mall, Garden City
- Description: A leading optical retailer offering a wide range of eyewear and eye care services.
- Employment Opportunities
- Visionworks
- Location: Hempstead Turnpike, East Meadow
- Description: Provides comprehensive eye care services and a large selection of eyewear.
- Employment Opportunities
- Northwell Health
- Location: Various locations in Nassau County
- Description: A major healthcare provider with optical departments in several facilities.
- Employment Opportunities
Prerequisites for Optician Programs
To enroll in an Optician program in New York, you typically need to meet the following prerequisites:
– Be at least 18 years old.
– Hold a high school diploma or equivalent, including one year of mathematics such as algebra or geometry.
– Some programs may require entrance exams or background checks.
Licensure Requirements in New York
To become a licensed Optician in New York, you must:
– Complete a two-year collegiate ophthalmic dispensing program or a two-year training program.
– Pass the National Opticianry Competency Examination (NOCE) and the New York State written and practical exams.
– For contact lens dispensing, pass the NCLE Contact Lens Registry Examination.
– Maintain continuing education requirements, including 18 contact hours every three years.
For more information, visit the New York State Education Department – Ophthalmic Dispensing Unit.
Licensure Reciprocity
New York does not have licensure reciprocity agreements with other states for Opticians. Therefore, if you are licensed in another state, you will need to meet New York’s specific requirements to practice as an Optician.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as an Optician in Hempstead, New York, is a rewarding journey. With the right training and certification, you can join a field that combines technical skills with customer service. Reach out to a local school today to begin your path toward becoming a certified Optician.
For more information on the job outlook for Opticians, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.