Are you passionate about eye health and vision care? Broward College’s Eye Care Program, also known as the Vision Care Technology/Opticianry Program, offers a comprehensive and accredited Associate of Science (AS) degree that can launch you into a rewarding career as a vision care professional. This program is meticulously designed to equip you with the knowledge, technical skills, and ethical understanding necessary to excel in the dynamic field of eye care.
Broward College is dedicated to transforming lives through academic excellence and innovation. The Eye Care Program embodies this mission by providing a learning-centered community that embraces diversity and empowers students. If you are seeking a career where you can make a tangible difference in people’s lives by helping them see the world more clearly, the Broward College Eye Care Program is the ideal starting point.
Become a Competent Vision Care Professional
The core mission of the Vision Care Program is to prepare competent, ethical, and culturally sensitive entry-level vision care professionals. The program emphasizes lifelong learning and professional development, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the ever-evolving healthcare landscape. Broward College is committed to providing quality instruction through dedicated faculty who are actively engaged in professional growth and are experts in the field of opticianry.
Enroll in the Fall 2024 Term – Seats Still Available
Exciting news! Seats are still available for the August 2024 Fall term. If you’re ready to embark on your journey towards becoming a vision care expert, applications are still being accepted until June 29th.
August 2024 Application Criteria:
To be eligible for the Eye Care Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Fulfill all Health Science Program admission requirements set by Broward College.
- Maintain a minimum overall GPA of 2.0.
Competitive Admission Process:
Admission to the Vision Care Program is competitive and based on a point system to ensure the most qualified candidates are selected. Students with the highest points are admitted first until all available seats are filled. In cases of a tie in points, GPA will be used as the tiebreaker, favoring applicants with higher GPAs.
Point System Breakdown:
Your application score is calculated based on several factors:
Overall GPA (Maximum 4 Points):
| GPA Range | Points |
|---|---|
| 4.00 to 3.50 | 4 |
| 3.49 to 3.00 | 3 |
| 2.99 to 2.50 | 2 |
| 2.49 to 2.00 | 1 |
Grades in Prerequisite Courses (Maximum 24 Points):
Points are awarded for grades earned in specific prerequisite courses, demonstrating your foundational knowledge in relevant subjects.
| Course | Grade A | Grade B | Grade C |
|---|---|---|---|
| MGF1106 or MAC1105 (Math) | 5 | 4 | 3 |
| POS2041 or AMH2020 (History) | 5 | 4 | 3 |
| BSC1005 (Biology) | 5 | 4 | 3 |
| ENC1101 (English) | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| CGS1060C (Computer Skills) | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| SPC1608 or SPC1024 (Speech) | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Prior Educational Experience (Maximum 3 Points):
Recognizing the value of prior academic achievements, points are awarded for completed degrees:
| Degree | Points |
|---|---|
| MA/MS Degree | 3 |
| BA/BS Degree | 2 |
| AA/AS Degree | 1 |
Military Service (Maximum 5 Points):
Broward College values the service of veterans and active duty military personnel.
(5 points are awarded to US Armed Forces active duty and honorably discharged veterans.)
Maximum Points for Program Admissions: 36
Important Note on Drug Screening:
Please be aware that all admitted students are required to pass a drug screening. It’s crucial to understand that certain over-the-counter supplements and alternative medicinal products, including CBD, THC, Cannabinoids, and Cannabinoid Oil, can trigger a positive result. A positive drug screening will result in denial of admission to the Health Science program, and Broward College Admissions Procedure A6Hx2-5.01 does not permit a second drug test. Ensure you are fully informed about the Admissions Policy and Admissions Procedure for complete details.
What to Expect in the Vision Care Program:
The Eye Care Program at Broward College offers a robust curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge with practical, hands-on experience. You will gain a deep understanding of ophthalmic concepts through lectures (didactic instruction) and then apply this knowledge in real-world clinical settings. Clinical training takes place in our on-site clinic at Broward College, equipped with state-of-the-art technology, and at off-site affiliated ophthalmic practices throughout Broward County.
Our commitment to small class sizes ensures that you receive individualized attention from our experienced faculty. The on-site clinic provides access to the latest ophthalmic equipment and technology, giving you a cutting-edge learning experience.
For a detailed overview of the courses you will take, refer to the Vision Care Program of Study.
Is the Vision Care Program Right for You?
If you are considering a career in eye care, you should possess certain aptitudes and skills. Success in the Vision Care Program and the opticianry profession requires:
- Strong Math Skills: Competency in basic algebra, geometry, and trigonometry is essential for understanding optical principles and calculations.
- Excellent Interpersonal Skills: The ability to handle public pressure and complaints gracefully is crucial for patient interaction and customer service.
- Effective Communication: Producing clear and effective oral and written English communication is necessary for patient education, record keeping, and collaboration with other healthcare professionals.
- Attention to Detail: Precision and accuracy are paramount in all aspects of vision care, from measurements to dispensing eyewear.
Skills You Will Master:
Upon completion of the Eye Care Program, you will be proficient in a wide range of essential skills, including:
- Eyewear Neutralization: Determining lens power.
- Refraction Theory and Clinical Assessments: Understanding and explaining how the eye bends light and conducting vision tests.
- Patient Record Management: Maintaining accurate and confidential patient records.
- Finishing Techniques: Creating and adjusting eyeglasses to precise specifications.
- Eye Anatomy and Pathology: Identifying the structure, function, and diseases of the human eye.
- Facial and Eye Measurements: Taking precise measurements for proper eyewear fit.
- Patient Needs Assessment: Evaluating the visual needs of patients in various aspects of their lives.
- Frame and Lens Selection and Measurement: Guiding patients in choosing appropriate eyewear and taking accurate measurements.
- Pricing and Fee Collection: Managing the financial aspects of dispensing vision aids and services.
- Patient Education: Communicating effectively with patients about their eyewear and vision care.
- Pre-testing Exam Assessments: Performing preliminary tests before eye examinations.
Learn More at Our Virtual Information Sessions
To gain a deeper understanding of the Broward College Vision Care Program and to have your questions answered directly by program faculty, RSVP for our monthly Live Virtual Information Sessions.
Excellent Career Prospects in Vision Care
The demand for skilled vision care professionals is projected to grow significantly. As the population ages, the need for corrective lenses and vision care services will continue to increase. This makes opticianry a stable and promising career path.
Opticians (Licensed Dispensing Opticians – LDOs) play a vital role in healthcare. They are responsible for fitting and adapting corrective lenses and other optical devices to improve vision. Their responsibilities include fitting eyeglasses and contact lenses, conducting diagnostic testing, and in some settings, practicing independently.
Broward College Eye Care Program graduates have an outstanding track record of success. Our graduates consistently achieve excellent pass rates on the American Board of Opticianry (ABO), National Contact Lens Examiners (NCLE), and State Board examinations, demonstrating the program’s effectiveness in preparing students for professional certification and licensure.
An impressive 100 percent of our graduates have secured employment in the vision care field or have chosen to further their education, highlighting the strong career foundation provided by the program. Explore potential career paths for Vision Care graduates here.
Program Goals and Outcomes:
The Broward College Associate of Science Vision Care Technology/Opticianry program is committed to achieving specific goals for students, faculty, and the program itself:
Student Goals:
- Successful completion of all course objectives and assessments.
- Development of professional attitudes and discipline essential for success in healthcare.
- Successful completion of registration, certification, and licensure examinations, including ABO, NCLE, and the Florida L.D.O. exam.
Faculty Goals:
- To educate knowledgeable and skilled graduates with critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
- To graduate culturally competent professionals capable of providing care to diverse populations.
- To instill a professional code of ethics based on the AOA Code of Ethics and Values.
- To maintain continuous professional development and stay updated with industry trends.
Program Goals:
- To maintain accreditation from the Commission on Opticianry Accreditation (COA).
- To prepare graduates for successful credentialing (certification/registration/licensure).
- To provide a comprehensive education that ensures public health, safety, and welfare.
- To ensure faculty maintain expertise in their teaching areas through ongoing professional development.
- To provide a strong foundation for graduates’ future education and career pursuits.
- To promote environmental responsibility through hazardous waste reduction and the use of environmentally friendly materials.
Accreditation and Quality Assurance:
The Vision Care Program’s mission and goals are regularly reviewed by faculty, administrators, advisory committee members, and students to ensure continuous improvement and program relevance.
Program Learning Objectives:
The curriculum is structured to ensure graduates achieve specific learning objectives across various domains:
Communication Objectives:
- Demonstrate effective oral and written communication with patients, physicians, and healthcare personnel, including accurate documentation in patient files.
Technical Objectives:
- Apply mathematical principles (algebra, trigonometry, geometry) in vision care contexts.
- Understand and identify human eye structure, function, and pathology.
- Demonstrate proficiency in operating and maintaining ophthalmic equipment.
- Perform physiognomic measurements.
- Neutralize eyewear.
- Assess patient needs.
- Assist patients in frame and lens selection.
- Manage pricing and fee collection.
- Prepare laboratory job orders.
- Dispense and instruct patients on eyewear use and care.
- Maintain patient records.
- Provide follow-up services and handle patient complaints.
- Apply safety regulations.
- Demonstrate finishing techniques.
- Explain refraction theory.
- Assist with business operations in an opticianry practice.
- Demonstrate contact lens fitting principles.
- Identify procedures for dispensing artificial eyes and low vision aids.
Cultural Objectives:
- Demonstrate sensitivity to individual and cultural differences in providing vision care services.
Behavior and Conduct Objectives:
- Exhibit professional conduct that meets or exceeds societal and professional expectations in healthcare.
Graduate Competencies:
Graduates of the Broward College Opticianry Program must demonstrate competency in all of the above learning objectives, ensuring they are well-prepared for entry into the profession. This includes skills ranging from technical proficiency in eyewear fabrication and dispensing to effective patient communication and ethical practice.
Program Duration and Location:
You can earn your Associate of Science degree in Vision Care in as little as 18 months of full-time study, totaling 72 credits. You can choose between the Optician track or the Ophthalmic Technician track, depending on your career interests.
Technical courses are primarily offered at the Broward College North Campus in Coconut Creek. Clinic courses are conducted at various locations throughout Broward County, including the on-campus Vision Care Clinic. General academic courses can be taken at any Broward College campus.
Explore the Vision Care classes available.
Essential Resources:
Licensure and Certification:
Graduation from the Broward College Eye Care Program is a crucial step towards becoming a licensed optician. Graduates must apply to take the American Board of Opticianry (ABO) and the National Contact Lens Certification Examinations to be eligible for licensure in Florida. Additionally, graduates must pass the State of Florida Department of Health Board of Opticianry Examination to practice as a Licensed Dispensing Optician (LDO) in Florida.
Licensing and Certification Boards:
Florida Board of Opticianry
4052 Bald Cypress Way, Bin # C08
Tallahassee, FL 32399 -3258
Phone: 1-850-488-0595
Phone: 1-850-245-4474
Fax: 1-850-921-5389
floridasopticianry.gov
American Board of OpticianryNational Contact Lens Examiners
6506 Loisdale Rd. Suite 209
Springfield, VA 22150
Phone: 1-800-296-1379
Office: 1-703-719-5800
www.abo-ncle.org
Experienced and Licensed Faculty:
Learn from the best! The Vision Care Faculty at Broward College are all Florida Licensed Opticians or Optometrists, bringing years of practical experience and academic expertise to the classroom and clinic.
Meet Our Faculty:
- Dr. Nina Mckie, L.D.O, DHSc – Professor / Program Manager
- Dr. Amy Reese, O.D – Clinical Doctor
- Dr. Steven Friedfeld, O.D – Clinical Doctor
- Mr. Lloyd Holness, L.D.O, M.A – Professor
- Mr. Brett Weintraub, L.D.O – Adjunct Instructor
Contact Us for More Information
Broward College Vision Care Program
Health Science Admissions: [email protected]
Health Science Advisor: Rehana Saleem, [email protected]
Program Director: Nina Mckie, [email protected]
Health Science Coordinator: Marianne Letcher, [email protected]
RSVP for our monthly Virtual Information Sessions to learn more and take the first step towards your rewarding eye care career!
Accreditation: Ensuring Program Quality
BROWARD COLLEGE SACSCOC ACCREDITATION STATEMENT
Broward College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), a testament to our commitment to high educational standards. This accreditation allows Broward College to award Associate in Arts, Associate in Science, Associate in Applied Science, Bachelor of Science, and Bachelor of Applied Science degrees, as well as certificates and diplomas. For questions about Broward College’s accreditation, please contact SACSCOC directly:
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097
Phone: 404-679-4500
Website: www.sacscoc.org
Program-Specific Accreditation:
The Vision Care Program holds additional accreditation from the Commission on Opticianry Accreditation (COA), further validating the program’s quality and adherence to industry standards.
Commission on Opticianry Accreditation (COA)
PO Box 592
Canton, NY 13617
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 703-468-0566
Website: coaccreditation.com
Status: Accredited to February 26, 2024
Enroll in Broward College’s Eye Care Program today and start your journey towards a fulfilling and impactful career in vision care!
