Optician Programs in Cleveland, Ohio
Becoming an Optician in Cleveland, Ohio
Are you considering a career as an Optician in Cleveland, Ohio? This guide will walk you through the steps necessary to become a successful Optician, including the educational paths available to you. Opticians, also known as Optical Technicians, are skilled professionals who assist customers in selecting and fitting eyeglasses and contact lenses. There are various educational paths to becoming an Optician, including apprenticeships and college-level programs.
About Cleveland
Cleveland, Ohio, located on the southern shore of Lake Erie, is a city rich in history and culture. Known for its diverse neighborhoods and landmarks such as the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland offers a unique blend of urban and suburban living. For more information about the city, visit the official Cleveland website.
Optician Training Programs in Cleveland, Ohio
Cleveland offers several options for those interested in pursuing Optician training:
- Cuyahoga Community College
Located in the Metro Campus neighborhood, Cuyahoga Community College offers a 2-year Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) Degree in Optical Technology. This program requires the completion of a minimum of 69 credit hours and is approved by the Ohio Optical Dispensers Board. For more details, visit the Cuyahoga Community College Optical Technology Program.
If you are unable to find a program within Cleveland, consider exploring nearby cities for additional opportunities.
Optician Employment Opportunities in Cleveland
Cleveland is home to numerous optical retailers and healthcare facilities with optical departments. Here are some major employers:
- Cleveland Clinic
Situated in the Fairfax neighborhood, the Cleveland Clinic is a renowned healthcare facility with a comprehensive optical department. For employment opportunities, visit the Cleveland Clinic Careers page. University Hospitals
Located in University Circle, University Hospitals offers a range of optical services. To explore job openings, check out the University Hospitals Careers page.Pearle Vision
With locations throughout Cleveland, Pearle Vision provides eyewear services and products. For career opportunities, visit the Pearle Vision Careers page.
Prerequisites for Optician Programs
To enroll in an Optician program in Cleveland, you typically need to meet the following prerequisites:
– Be at least eighteen years of age
– Be a graduate of an accredited high school or equivalent
– Be of good moral character
– Be free of contagious or infectious disease
Licensure Requirements in Ohio
The Ohio Optical Dispensers Board governs the licensure of Opticians in Ohio. To become licensed, you must:
– Complete a two-year apprenticeship or college-level program in optical dispensing
– Pass the National Opticianry Competency Examination (NOCE) and, if applicable, the Contact Lens Registry Examination (CLRE)
– Apply through the Ohio eLicense system
– Complete a BCI/FBI background check
For more information, visit the Ohio Optical Dispensers Board.
Licensure Reciprocity
Ohio offers licensure by reciprocity for Opticians previously licensed in other states, provided their training and examination requirements are comparable. Contact the Ohio Optical Dispensers Board to determine eligibility.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as an Optician in Cleveland, Ohio, is a rewarding decision. With the right training and certification, you can join a field dedicated to improving vision and enhancing lives. Reach out to a local school today to begin your journey toward becoming an Optician.
For more information on the job outlook for Opticians, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics page.