Ophthalmic Technician Program

Welcome to the eye site: Associate of Applied Science Degree – Ophthalmic Technology option. This is a “one-plus-one” program consisting of one year of general education and prerequisites, plus one year of the ophthalmic major courses. Upon completion, graduates are eligible to take the national certified Ophthalmic Techninician (COT®) examination.

An Ophthalmic Techninician works under the direction of an ophthalmologist (an M.D.) with duties including, but not limited to, medical history-taking, visual acuity testing, refractometry, contact lens fitting, visual field evaluation, eye muscle and pupil evaluation, assisting in eye surgery, and performing a variety of technology-based diagnostic testing and patient services.

Ophthalmic Technology is a fascinating program and a great career choice for those students who love science and have an inquisitive mind. Demand for technicians far outweighs the number of graduates our program is able to supply. In the program’s six-year history, most students have been offered jobs from weeks to months before graduation. The future outlook for jobs is excellent as our aging population's need for eye care increases.

The deadline for application to the program is April 30th. The screening and interview process will be conducted in early June. Interested students may contact George Schindler, Interim Program Director, (615) 230 - 3723, George.Schindler@volstate.edu or contact the Allied Health Division at (615) 230 - 3330 for an advising appointment. It is helpful to have requested your official transcripts be sent to the college beforehand for evaluation, or bring an unofficial copy of your transcripts with you to your appointment.

Detailed information on the Ophthalmic Technician program is available in our information packet (PDF). Students may wish to download, complete and mail an Application to Allied Health Careers (PDF). Check the Ophthalmic Technology choice on the form and mail to the attention of the Program Director at the following address:

Sending this application does not admit a student into the college or register a student for classes. Applications for admission are handled by the Admissions Office. Registration is accomplished online by going to: http://www.volstate.edu/StudentHelp/ and following the instructions given.