Faculty: Health Sciences This major provides a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of opticianry, focusing on the design, fitting, and dispensing of eyeglasses and contact lenses. Students explore key areas such as optical theory, lens fabrication, vision correction, and patient care. The program emphasizes technical skills, precision, and the application of optical principles to improve visual health and patient satisfaction. Graduates are prepared for careers as opticians, optical lab technicians, and vision care specialists. **Learning Objectives:** - Understand the fundamentals of optical theory and vision correction. - Develop skills in designing, fitting, and dispensing eyeglasses and contact lenses. - Learn techniques for lens fabrication and optical instrument use. - Explore the role of patient care and communication in opticianry. - Understand the principles of ocular anatomy and common vision disorders. - Analyze challenges and opportunities in the opticianry industry. - Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills for optical solutions. **Major Outline:** 1. **Introduction to Opticianry** - Overview of the field, its history, and its importance in vision care. 2. **Optical Theory and Vision Correction** - Study of light refraction, lens properties, and vision correction principles. - Techniques for calculating lens prescriptions and correcting visual impairments. 3. **Eyeglass Design and Fitting** - Principles of frame selection, lens fitting, and adjustments. - Techniques for ensuring proper fit and comfort for patients. 4. **Contact Lens Fitting and Dispensing** - Fundamentals of contact lens types, fitting procedures, and patient education. - Techniques for addressing common contact lens issues and complications. 5. **Lens Fabrication and Optical Instruments** - Study of lens grinding, coating, and finishing processes. - Techniques for using optical instruments to measure and verify lens specifications. 6. **Ocular Anatomy and Vision Disorders** - Exploration of eye anatomy, physiology, and common vision disorders. - Techniques for understanding and addressing patient-specific vision needs. 7. **Patient Care and Communication** - Principles of patient assessment, history-taking, and communication skills. - Techniques for building rapport and providing patient-centered care. 8. **Emerging Trends in Opticianry** - Analysis of innovations such as digital lenses, blue light filtering, and advanced coatings. - Techniques for adapting to new trends and technologies in the optical industry. 9. **Capstone Project in Opticianry** - Real-world project to apply learned skills in eyeglass or contact lens fitting and dispensing. - Techniques for delivering a comprehensive optical solution. **Assessment Methods:** - Practical exams in lens fitting, frame adjustments, and contact lens dispensing. - Written assignments on optical theory, ocular anatomy, and patient care. - Group projects in lens fabrication and optical instrument use. - Participation in internships or fieldwork with optometry practices or optical labs. **Recommended Textbooks:** - "System for Ophthalmic Dispensing" by Clifford W. Brooks and Irvin M. Borish. - "The Optician Training Manual" by David Wilson. - "Contact Lens Practice" by Nathan Efron. - "Optical Formulas Tutorial" by John Seegers. **Prerequisites:** Basic knowledge of biology, physics, or healthcare is recommended. Suitable for students in health sciences, biology, and related fields. **Major Duration:** Typically 2-4 years, depending on the program, including coursework, practical training, and internships. **Certification:** Graduates may receive a degree in Opticianry or a related field and may pursue additional certifications (e.g., ABO Certification, NCLE Certification). **Target Audience:** Aspiring opticians, optical lab technicians, and vision care specialists seeking to excel in the design, fitting, and dispensing of eyeglasses and contact lenses. This major equips students with the technical, practical, and interpersonal skills needed to excel in opticianry, improving visual health and patient satisfaction in the optical industry.