The Opticianry programs are designed to equip the learner with basic opticianry skills. An optician must accurately translate a doctor's written prescription into eyeglasses or contact lenses that are worn comfortably and satisfy the optical, physiological, cosmetic and lifestyle needs of the patient. The learner will achieve experience in all phases of laboratory procedures by producing commercially acceptable eyewear from basic laboratory components. The learner will receive clinical training in the techniques of fitting, selecting, and adapting eyewear to patients. Instructional experience is achieved in the instrumentation, fitting, evaluation, patient instruction, and follow-up of various types of contact lenses.
To receive a diploma or degree from DeKalb Technical College (DTC), students must complete 25% of their course work at DTC.
Prerequisites: Degree program admission level English and reading competency or completion of ENG 0098 and RDG 0098 with grades of "S", “C*”, or better and the appropriate score on the Writing and Reading ASSET or COMPASS Exit Exams; and recommended successful completion of SCT 100 or equivalent. Note: Because this is a hybrid course, students are expected to have competency in e-mail, document creation, and document filing prior to taking the course.
Focuses on skills required for effective writing in a variety of contexts, with emphasis on exposition, analysis, and argumentation, including introductory use of a variety of research skills; explores the analysis of expository essays and creative nonfiction about issues in the humanities and in society. The course includes a review of grammar and stylistic usage in proofreading and editing, with emphasis on the rhetorical function of these mechanics. Topics include: writing analysis and practice, revision, and research.
Prerequisite: ENG 1101 with a minimum grade of “C”
Explores the philosophic and artistic heritage of humanity expressed through a historical perspective on visual arts, music, philosophy, and literature. The humanities are presented as a source of subjective insights for the understanding of people and society. Topics include: historical and cultural developments, and contributions of the humanities.
Prerequisite: Degree program admission level math competency or MAT 1013 with a minimum grade of “C” or “S”
Overview course covering algebra, statistics, and mathematics of finance. Topics include: fundamental operations of Algebra, sets and logic, probability and statistics, Geometry, and Mathematics of finance. Computer and Internet technology are an integral part of this course.
Prerequisite: ENG 1101 with a minimum grade of "C"
Introduces the fundamentals of oral communication. Topics include: selection and organization of materials, preparation and delivery of individual and group presentations, and analysis of ideas presented by others.
Prerequisite: Program admission level English, reading and math scores
Introduces the eye-care field and the profession of opticianry. Emphasis is placed on the scope of activities performed by opticians. Topics include: eye-care profession, major divisions of opticianry, basic ocular anatomy, light and refraction, vision problems, and corrective lenses.
Prerequisite: OPD 101
Develops knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the eye. Emphasis is placed on corneal metabolism and its accommodation of a contact lens. Topics include: anatomy and physiology of the eye, eye diseases and abnormalities, corneal metabolism, drugs and treatment methods, and ophthalmic terminology.
Prerequisite: OPD 101
Introduces the properties of light and the laws of geometrical optics. Emphasis is placed on understanding major theories of light and the principles of plane and curved surfaces of mirrors and lenses. Topics include: light and vision, refraction, lens modified light, lens systems, and advanced optical calculations.
Prerequisite: Program admission level English, reading and math scores
Introduces the operations involved in lens fabrication. Emphasis is placed on gaining knowledge of equipment requirements and developing surfacing and finishing techniques. Topics include: lens processing terminology, surfacing and finishing equipment, lens blank selection and layout, surfacing techniques, finishing techniques, inspection of lenses, and insertion techniques.
Prerequisite: OPD 106
Continues study of lens fabrication. Emphasis is placed on using specialized lens materials and multifocal surfacing and finishing techniques. Topics include: specialized lens blanks, multifocal lenses, inspection of multifocal lenses, optical calculations, high index lenses, frame repairs, and optical equipment maintenance.
Prerequisite: OPD 102
Introduces the field of contact lenses. Emphasis is placed on the development of contact lenses to correct visual defects, types of contact lenses and consumer selection. Topics include: history of contact lens, contact lens instruments, contact lens terminology, corneal topography, lens types, pre-fitting evaluation, and adverse effects of lens wear.
Prerequisite: OPD 107
Introduces frame selection and dispensing techniques. Emphasis is placed on gaining clinical experience in providing service to the eyewear consumer. Topics include: ocular measurements, frame selection, frame materials, eyewear fitting techniques, lensmeter operation, administrative procedures, and lens finishing.
Prerequisite: OPD 108
Introduces soft contact lens fitting techniques. Emphasis is placed on fitting trial and prescribed lenses. Topics include: selection of lens, inspection and verification, fitting guidelines and regulations, follow-up care, lens care and storage, and fitting bandage lenses.
Prerequisite: OPD 109
Continues study of eyewear dispensing techniques. Emphasis is placed on gaining clinical experience in providing service to the eyewear consumer. Topics include: special lens coatings, lens finishing, use and care of eyewear, matching lens needs to consumer lifestyle, and optical physiological and psychological problems.
Prerequisite: OPD 111
Continues study of contact lenses with emphasis on rigid and gas permeable trial and prescription lens fitting techniques. Topics include: selection of lens, inspection and verification, fitting guidelines and regulations, follow-up care, lens care and storage, and fitting optional feature lenses.
Prerequisite: OPD 112
Introduces techniques of opticianry sales and emphasizes effective consumer service. Topics include: information gathering; communications with consumers, prescribers, and suppliers; ophthalmic sales skills, and effective consumer services and problem solving.
Prerequisite: OPD 113
Continues study of contact lenses dispensing knowledge and skills. Emphasis is placed on reviewing types of contact lenses, fitting techniques and further development of associated skills. Topics include: soft contact lens fitting, hard contact lens fitting, contact lens instrumentation, effective consumer service, and contact lens regulations.
Prerequisite: OPD 114
Continues study of opticianry knowledge and skills. Emphasis is placed on reviewing optical theory, laboratory procedures, and further development of associated skills. Topics include: optical laboratory, frames and lenses, dispensing techniques, eyewear sales, and eyewear regulations.
Prerequisite: OPD 114
Continues study of opticianry techniques. Emphasis is placed on gaining clinical experience in providing service to the ophthalmic consumer. Topics include: special visual problems, contact lenses, analyzing ophthalmic problems, ordering procedures, marketing eyewear, and work attitudes. The occupation-based instruction is implemented through the use of a practicum or internship and all the following: written individualized training plans, written performance evaluation, and required weekly seminar.
Prerequisite: RDG 0096 or equivalent test score
Introduces the fundamental concepts and operations necessary to use microcomputers. Emphasis is placed on basic functions and familiarity with computer use. Topics include: computer terminology, introduction to the Windows environment, introduction to networking, introduction to word processing, introduction to spreadsheets, introduction to databases, and introduction to presentation graphics.