Optician Programs in Chesapeake, Virginia
Becoming an Optician in Chesapeake, Virginia
If you’re considering a career as an Optician in Chesapeake, Virginia, you’re embarking on a path that combines technical skills with customer service to help people see better. Opticians, also known as Optical Technicians, are trained professionals who fit eyeglasses and contact lenses, following prescriptions from ophthalmologists and optometrists. There are several paths to becoming an Optician, including formal education programs and apprenticeships, each leading to certification and licensure.
About Chesapeake
Chesapeake, Virginia, is a city known for its rich history and natural beauty, located in the southeastern part of the state. It offers a blend of urban and rural environments, with attractions like the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge and the Chesapeake Arboretum. For more information about Chesapeake, visit the official city website.
Optician Training Programs in Chesapeake, Virginia
While Chesapeake itself does not host any Optician schools, there are nearby options to consider:
- J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College – Located in Richmond, approximately 90 miles from Chesapeake, this college offers the only approved Opticianry program in Virginia. The program provides comprehensive training in optical theory, laboratory skills, and clinical practice. Visit their Opticianry program page.
Tidewater Community College – While not offering a specific Optician program, this college in nearby Norfolk provides foundational courses that can be beneficial for aspiring Opticians. Learn more about their offerings.
Apprenticeship Programs – For those interested in hands-on experience, Virginia offers a three-year apprenticeship program, which includes one year of related instruction approved by the Virginia State Board of Opticians.
Optician Employment Opportunities in Chesapeake
Chesapeake offers various employment opportunities for Opticians:
- LensCrafters – Located in the Greenbrier area, LensCrafters is a leading optical retailer offering a range of eyewear products and services. Explore job opportunities at LensCrafters.
Pearle Vision – Situated in the Western Branch neighborhood, Pearle Vision provides comprehensive eye care services and is a great place for Opticians to work. Check out careers at Pearle Vision.
Chesapeake Regional Healthcare – This facility in the River Walk area includes an optical department, providing opportunities for Opticians to work in a healthcare setting. Visit their careers page.
Prerequisites for Optician Programs
To enroll in an Optician program in Virginia, you typically need to meet the following prerequisites:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Have a high school diploma or GED.
- Be of good character, as determined by the Board for Hearing Aid Specialists and Opticians.
- No convictions of misdemeanors or felonies in any jurisdiction.
Licensure Requirements in Virginia
In Virginia, Opticians must be licensed by the Board for Hearing Aid Specialists and Opticians. The requirements include:
- Completing a two-year approved Opticianry program or a three-year apprenticeship.
- Passing the National Opticianry Competency Examination (NOCE) and the National Contact Lens Registry Examination (CLRE) if fitting contact lenses.
- Passing a State Practical Examination.
For more details, visit the Board for Hearing Aid Specialists and Opticians – DPOR.
Licensure Reciprocity
Virginia offers licensure by endorsement for Opticians licensed in other states, provided they meet equivalent requirements and have passed a substantially equivalent examination. Contact the Board for Hearing Aid Specialists and Opticians for more information.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as an Optician in Chesapeake, Virginia, is a rewarding choice that offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on people’s lives. Whether you choose to pursue formal education or an apprenticeship, the path to becoming an Optician is clear. Contact a school today to start your journey, and take the first step towards a fulfilling career in the optical field.
For more information on the job outlook for Opticians, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.