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Careers in Opticianry
What is an optician? "Opticians design and dispense eyeglasses. In many states, including Connecticut, they design and fit contact lenses. Opticians analyze the written prescriptions of an ophthalmologist (MD) or optometrist (OD) to determine the specifications of the lenses. Special instrumentation may be used to determine and compare a prescription from existing eyewear. Opticians often communicate directly with the prescribing ophthalmologist or optometrist to verify or discuss the written prescription." Quoted from: Middlesex Community College. For complete description, please visit their website.

The occupational outlook for ophthalmic dispensers (opticians) has been spurred by baby boomers and an increasingly elderly population. Demand for opticians should continue to grow through the year 2014. Fashion is also a driving force for qualified dispensing opticians. As ophthalmic and contact lens technology continues to develop, the demand for opticians should continue to increase.

For additional information on this field, please visit the US Department of Labor Occupational Handbook.

You may also view a short videotape about this career choice by clicking this link.

To obtain additional information, or speak to a career counselor about becoming an optician in the state of Connecticut, we recommend that you contact Middlesex Community College, the only accredited college to offer an Optician curriculum in Connecticut. The complete curriculum for the Ophthalmic Design and Dispensing Program may be viewed by clicking this link. For further information, please contact Program Coordinator, Professor Raymond P. Dennis may be reached at 860-343-5845, or by email at rdennis@mxcc.commnet.edu.

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