Optician Programs in Garland, Texas
Becoming an Optician in Garland, Texas
Are you considering a career as an Optician in Garland, Texas? This guide will help you understand the steps to becoming an Optician, the education paths available, and the opportunities in this field. An Optician is a professional who helps fit eyeglasses and contact lenses, working closely with optometrists and ophthalmologists. There are various paths to becoming an Optician, including formal education programs and on-the-job training.
About Garland
Garland, Texas, is a thriving city located northeast of Dallas. Known for its rich history and diverse community, Garland offers a mix of urban and suburban living. The city is home to several parks and recreational areas, such as the Spring Creek Forest Preserve. For more information about Garland, visit the official city website.
Optician Training Programs in Garland, Texas
While Garland itself may not have specific Optician programs, there are several options nearby and online to consider:
- San Jacinto Community College: Located in Pasadena, Texas, this college offers an Associate in Applied Science degree and certificate programs in Eye Care Technology. Visit their program page.
Tyler Junior College: Situated in Tyler, Texas, this college provides an ophthalmic medical assisting certificate program, which can be a great foundation for an Optician career. Explore their offerings.
Lamson Institute: Based in San Antonio, this institute offers a program in optometric assisting. Learn more about their program.
Online Programs: Consider Penn Foster College’s Optician Exam Prep Career Diploma, which can be completed in as little as seven months. Check out their online program.
Optician Employment Opportunities in Garland
Garland offers several employment opportunities for aspiring Opticians:
- Visionworks: Located in the Firewheel Town Center, Visionworks is a leading provider of eye care services. Explore career opportunities.
LensCrafters: Situated in the nearby city of Dallas, LensCrafters offers a range of optical services and products. Visit their careers page.
Walmart Vision Center: With multiple locations in Garland, Walmart Vision Center provides optical services and products. Check out their job openings.
Prerequisites for Optician Programs
To enroll in an Optician program, you typically need a high school diploma or GED. Some programs may require entrance exams or background checks. While not legally required in Texas, having formal education or training is often preferred by employers.
Licensure Requirements in Texas
As of July 1, 2015, the Texas Department of State Health Services no longer requires or issues licenses for Opticians. However, national certifications such as the American Board of Opticians (ABO) Certification and the National Contact Lens Examiners (NCLE) Certification are highly regarded by employers. For more information, you can contact the Opticians Association of Texas.
Licensure Reciprocity
Licensure reciprocity is not applicable for Opticians in Texas, as the state does not require licensure.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as an Optician in Garland, Texas, is an exciting opportunity. With various education and training options available, you can find a path that suits your needs. Contact a 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.