TCI College of Technology

The Ophthalmic Dispenser (also known as the Optician) is an eye care professional who fills prescriptions for corrective eyewear, in accordance with an ophthalmologist’s or optometrist’s determination.

The Ophthalmic Dispensing program combines an in-depth study of optics and anatomy with dispensing knowledge and finishing skills so that graduates have the ability to provide patients with suitable, well-fitted eyeglasses or contact lenses. The program prepares the student for national certifying examinations given by the American Board of Opticianry and The National Contact Lens Examiners.

Certification and graduation establish eligibility for entrance to the New York State Professional Licensing Examination for Ophthalmic Dispensing. On-campus laboratories and dispensaries resemble those encountered in the optical industry. An on-site clinical internship provides patient contact and dispensing experience.

Students train on state-of-the-art instrumentation and machinery, gaining competence in all aspects of opticianry, from fabrication to the dispensing of the finished product.

The program emphasizes ethics and professionalism. As an optical professional, career opportunities include:

• Owning an optical business
• Managing an optical store
• Fitting and dispensing contact lenses
• Representing lens and frame companies

TCI’s program in Ophthalmic Dispensing was transferred from the former Interboro Institute in 2008, along with its programmatic accreditation.  The program statistics that follow represent graduates who began Opticianry courses in 2006-2007 at Interboro, as reported to the Commission on Opticianry Accreditation (COA):

Frequently Asked Questions:

• Will the program prepare students for national written and practical examinations?
• Yes, in addition to courses, we offer intense preparation sessions before exams. These sessions are open to TCI students only.

• Do you need a license or certificate to work as an optician?
• Absolutely. Ophthalmic Dispensing is one of many professions in NYS that require a license to practice.

• Is there another way to qualify for licensure in Ophthalmic Dispensing in NYS
• Yes. In addition to formal education in college, there is an apprentice route to licensure. Some apprentices also take optical courses, but may not want to matriculate for an associate's degree.

• Will students actually take care of patients while studying at TCI?
• Yes. The program offers an in-house clinical internship where students take care of real eyeglass and contact lens patients.

• Are courses offered during the day and in the evening?
• Yes. TCI offers the degree program in both day and evening formats. Some students sign up for a bridge schedule, taking classes during the day and in the evening. We also run a full day and night schedule during the summer. This allows a student to complete a degree in a relatively shortperiod of time.

• Where can I find out more about ophthalmic dispensing in New York State?
• Visit this website: www.op.nysed.gov/od.htm

What You'll Get at TCI

• A qualified faculty with real-world experience
• An education at a college located in world’s “business capital”
• The fast track to your future – earn your degree in as little as 16 months and be ready to start a great career.