Ophthalmic Technician

The Community College of Rhode Island’s Division of Workforce Partnerships is pleased to offer a 120-hour Ophthalmic Technician training program. Job placement assistance and preparation for national certification as a Certified Ophthalmic Assistant is included.

• Starting wage: $18-$20/hour on average; varies depending upon duties and skills
• Upon receiving national certification (optional): $20+/hour

What does an Ophthalmic Technician do?

Ophthalmic Technicians assist ophthalmologists in diagnosing and treating eye conditions by performing preliminary eye exams, measuring visual acuity, and conducting specialized tests like retinal imaging and visual field testing. They also prepare patients for procedures, administer eye drops or medications, and educate patients about eye health and treatment plans. Additionally, they may be responsible for maintaining and calibrating ophthalmic equipment, updating medical records, and assisting with minor in-office procedures to ensure smooth clinical operations.

Watch this video from the International Joint Commission on Allied Health Professionals in Ophthalmology (IJCAHPO) to learn more:

IJCAHPO Video

Please check soon for information about our next cohort!

Program Information:

Lecture and Hands-On Clinical Practice: 60 hours

When: September 29 – December 12, 2025

• Tuesdays and Thursdays 5:00 – 8:00 pm (lectures)
• Saturdays 9:00 am – 3:00 pm (hands-on clinical training)

Where: HYBRID, Virtual & In-Person, CCRI Knight Campus, 400 East Ave., Warwick, RI

Clinical Training In-person with an employer partner (TBD)

Unpaid Internship with an Employer: 60 hours

Internship Start Date: TBD

Completion date will depend on each student’s internship schedule but should be completed no later than TBD.

Program Includes:

• Free course tuition
• All course supplies and materials
• Internship and job placement assistance

Program Does Not Include: 

• Cost of RI Department of Health-required health screenings and immunizations
• Cost of state background check
• IJCAHPO Certified Ophthalmic Assistant exam (optional, but recommended after completing 1,000 hours of work experience)

Prerequisites:

• Due to the nature of this program, all participants must meet the Rhode Island Department of Health immunization requirements for healthcare workers no later than June 30, 2025.
• Proof of GED or high school diploma by July 1, 2025.
• Must be a Rhode Island resident.
• Must have access to a laptop or computer for virtual classes and assignments.
• Must be able to pass a state background check.
• Bilingual students and graduating high school seniors are encouraged to apply.

If interested applying, please complete our Program Inquiry Form.

Program Inquiry Form

Details

• Cost - No charge! This program is free for all that qualify and are accepted.

• Time Commitment - 120 hours (6-8 weeks)

• Contact - Laurie Cepeda, For more information, please complete the Program Inquiry Form