Ophthalmic Assistant Certificate – Non-Credit

About Our Program

This 42-hour certificate program will prepare you for a career as an Ophthalmic Assistant. This course will provide students with the foundation of knowledge regarding the basics required for all healthcare practices and an in depth understanding of ocular anatomy and physiology, diseases and treatments as well as pointed histories, pharmacology and basic skills.  Additional hands-on learning combined with more advanced principles needed to perform at an entry level will give you the skills to succeed. Students should possess strong math skills and a High School diploma or equivalent.

Note: Some class sessions will be offsite; students must provide transportation for these offsite sessions.

What does an Ophthalmic Assistant do?

Ophthalmic Assistants (OA) work in a variety of health care settings, including medical offices, Veterans Assistance Centers, hospitals, community health centers and more. Clinical duties include: assisting ophthalmologists and technicians with patient tests and assessments, documentation of patient history, administration of ocular medications, and patient education. Administrative duties include handling patient medical records, billing and insurance-related inquiries, ensuring patient flow, coordinating repairs to office equipment, order supplies, etc.

Note: This course is not accredited by JCAHO/IJCAHPO; however, it will provide you with the entry level skills expected. Certification eligibility is met after completing a minimum of 1,000 work hours under the supervision of an ophthalmologist and a successful completion of a home study test. More information regarding certification requirements.

A certificate will be awarded upon successful completion of this course.