WHAT IS AN OPTICIAN?
WHY BECOME AN OPTICIAN?
GRADUATING FROM HIGH SCHOOL
ACCREDITATION
Accredited programs are required to meet rigorous standards that ensure opticians are properly trained as experts in their field.
The best way to make sure that you have the skills and knowledge required to become a licensed optician in Canada is to complete an accredited educational program.
POST-SECONDARY OPTIONS
Distance Delivery
Full-Time Programs
Part-Time Programs
Costs and times vary depending on which option you choose.
One of the best things about the distance delivery or part-time option is the opportunity to make a living while receiving an education. Working in the industry while studying also gives you the chance to gain practical experience and determine if this career is the right fit for you.
WHY BECOME AN OPTICIAN?
A GOOD FIT?
TRANSFERRING SKILLS
Some internationally educated health professionals are not able to gain recognition in Canada for their training and qualifications. They may have skills and interests which will allow for a transition to a career as an optician in Canada.
Even if your ultimate goal is to return to the profession for which you were trained, transitioning to a licensed optician is a valuable way of maintaining a connection with healthcare professionals and earning a living.
Some professions with relevant skills include:
- Optometrists
- Ophthalmologists
- Ophthalmic technicians, technologists
PLAR
CAREER OUTLOOK
WHY BECOME AN OPTICIAN?
CAREER OUTLOOK
TIME FOR A CHANGE?
PUT YOUR SKILLS TO WORK FOR YOU
If you’ve been working in Canada in a healthcare field, health retail setting, optical lab, or another patient-focused setting, you may already possess some or all of the skills needed to be an optician.
If you have a passion for healthcare, fashion, science, and patient services, consider transitioning into a rewarding career as an optician. You have two options available, depending on your skills and experience.
You may thrive in an accredited program, where you can apply some of your previous experience and learn specific optical skills as a student optician. There are flexible options for those who want to become an optician by attending an accredited program.
THE PLAR PROCESS
ACCREDITED PROGRAM
WHICH PATH SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?
Not sure if your skills will transfer to a career as an optician?
Find out whether an accredited program or the PLAR process is best for you: