Ophthalmic Technician (OPH)

All OPH courses numbered 100 and above may be applied to the major field and elective requirement for the Associate in Arts and Associate in Science degrees.

OPH 101 Introduction to Eye Care (2)(2,0)

This course introduces the structure, roles, and functions of the ophthalmic care environment. Students will explore the composition of the eye care team, ethical and legal responsibilities, and community health initiatives related to vision care. Emphasis is placed on professional conduct, patient interaction, documentation, and administrative duties within ophthalmic practice. (1.2) Proficiency Credit: Not Available Pass/No Credit: Not Available

SPECIAL SPECIAL NOTE: Students enrolled in this program are required to have the following: 1) criminal background check, 2) drug test, 3) physical exam, 4) lab tests to prove immunity to common illnesses, 5) TB test, 6) health insurance, 7) uniform, 8) social security card and 9) Basic Life Support (BLS) Healthcare Provider CPR certification. .

In-District Tuition/Fees: $296 (effective 2026/27 academic year)

In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.

Prerequisite: Admission into the Ophthalmic Technician or Eye Care Assistant program

Semester(s) Offered: Fall

OPH 102 Ocular Anatomy & Physiology (2)(2,0)

This course provides an in-depth study of the anatomy and physiology of the eye and the associated visual system. Students will explore the structure and function of ocular tissues, as well as the neurological pathways involved in vision. Focus is placed on understanding normal anatomy as a foundation for recognizing ocular disorders, interpreting clinical findings, and supporting comprehensive eye care. (1.2) Proficiency Credit: Not Available Pass/No Credit: Not Available.

In-District Tuition/Fees: $296 (effective 2026/27 academic year)

In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.

Prerequisite: Admission into the Ophthalmic Technician or Eye Care Assistant program or consent of instructor

Semester(s) Offered: Fall

OPH 103 Introduction to Eye Diseases (2)(2,0)

This course introduces students to the basic principles of microbiology, ocular pathology, and common eye diseases encountered in clinical practice. Students will learn to identify microorganisms, understand mechanisms of disease transmission, and apply infection control measures to maintain a safe clinical environment. (1.2) Proficiency Credit: Not Available Pass/No Credit: Not Available.

In-District Tuition/Fees: $296 (effective 2026/27 academic year)

In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.

Prerequisite: Admission into the Ophthalmic Technician or Eye Care Assistant program or consent of instructor

Semester(s) Offered: Fall

OPH 104 Ophthalmic Clinical Procedures I (2)(1,2)

This course introduces students to the basic principles of microbiology, ocular pathology, and common eye diseases encountered in clinical practice. Students will learn to identify microorganisms, understand mechanisms of disease transmission, and apply infection control measures to maintain a safe clinical environment. Emphasis is placed on recognizing signs and symptoms of frequently encountered eye diseases, understanding their underlying causes, and developing the foundational knowledge needed to assist in diagnostic and treatment processes within the ophthalmic clinic. (1.2) Proficiency Credit: Not Available Pass/No Credit: Not Available.

In-District Tuition/Fees: $296 (effective 2026/27 academic year)

In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.

Prerequisite: Admission into the Ophthalmic Technician or Eye Care Assisant program or consent of instructor

Semester(s) Offered: Fall

OPH 110 Principles of Ophthalmic Tech I (4)(3,2)

This course is designed to introduce foundational knowledge, basic testing, and skills in the ophthalmic practice. Students will be introduced to eye anatomy, history taking, and visual assessment. Basic ophthalmic microbiology and pharmacology will be covered. (1.2) Proficiency Credit: Not Available Pass/No Credit: Not Available

SPECIAL SPECIAL NOTE: Students enrolled in this program are required to have the following: 1) criminal background check, 2) drug test, 3) physical exam, 4) lab tests to prove immunity to common illnesses, 5) TB test, 6) health insurance, 7) uniform, 8) social security card and 9) Basic Life Support (BLS) Healthcare Provider CPR certification. .

In-District Tuition/Fees: $692 (effective 2026/27 academic year)

In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.

Prerequisite: **Effective Summer 2026, this course will be withdrawn** Prerequisite: Admission into Ophthalmic Tech program

Semester(s) Offered: Fall

OPH 120 Principles of Ophthalmic Tech II (5)(3.5,3)

This course introduces clinical optics, including the related topics of lensometry, keratometry, and contact lenses. Skills in visual field testing and tonometry are also explored. The ophthalmic technician's role in surgical assisting is covered. (1.2) Proficiency Credit: Not Available Pass/No Credit: Not Available.

In-District Tuition/Fees: $890 (effective 2026/27 academic year)

In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.

Prerequisite: **Effective Summer 2026, this course will be withdrawn** Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in OPH 110; and BIO 245 or concurrent enrollment in BIO 245

Semester(s) Offered: Spring

OPH 122 Ophthalmic Patient & Clinic Support (1)(1,0)

This course introduces students to essential patient support skills in the ophthalmic clinical environment. Topics include the ocular manifestations of common systemic diseases, patient interviewing and communication techniques, emergency preparedness, patient education strategies, and clinical equipment and supply maintenance. Emphasis is placed on developing patient-centered communication, promoting safety, and supporting the clinical team through effective equipment management and preparedness. (1.2) Proficiency Credit: Not Available Pass/No Credit: Not Available.

In-District Tuition/Fees: $148 (effective 2026/27 academic year)

In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.

Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in OPH 101 or consent of instructor

Semester(s) Offered: Spring

OPH 123 Ophthalmic Optics & Refractometry (3)(2,2)

This course introduces students to the foundational principles of ophthalmic optics and the techniques used to evaluate and correct refractive errors. Students will explore the physical properties of light, the optical components of the eye, and the types and functions of ophthalmic lenses. Hands-on experience will include lensometry, keratometry, and basic refractometry techniques. The course also covers contact lens types, parameters, care, and patient education. (1.2) Proficiency Credit: Not Available Pass/No Credit: Not Available.

In-District Tuition/Fees: $444 (effective 2026/27 academic year)

In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.

Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in OPH 104, or consent of instructor

Semester(s) Offered: Spring

OPH 124 Ophthalmic Clinical Procedures II (3)(2,2)

This advanced course builds on foundational clinical skills and focuses on more complex ophthalmic procedures and surgical assisting techniques. Students will gain competency in pupillary assessments, tonometry, biometry, and basic supplementary tests. Emphasis is also placed on surgical preparation and assisting. Students will apply principles of asepsis, instrument handling, and patient safety while supporting ophthalmic surgeries. (1.2) Proficiency Credit: Not Available Pass/No Credit: Not Available.

In-District Tuition/Fees: $444 (effective 2026/27 academic year)

In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.

Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in OPH 104, or consent of instructor

Semester(s) Offered: Spring

OPH 125 Ophthalmic Technician Clinical I (4)(.5,17.5)

The student will begin clinical experiences under the supervision of a licensed ophthalmologist, in which the students sees patients and works towards competency and attainment of basic ophthalmic skills. (1.2) Proficiency Credit: Not Available Pass/No Credit: Not Available.

In-District Tuition/Fees: $592 (effective 2026/27 academic year)

In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.

Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in OPH 124, or consent of instructor

Semester(s) Offered: Spring

OPH 230 Principles of Ophthalmic Tech III (5)(4,2)

Students will advance their knowledge of optics in this course with topics in refraction and refinement. Advanced ophthalmic technician skills such as ophthalmic imaging and ocular motility assessment are covered (1.2) Proficiency Credit: Not Available Pass/No Credit: Not Available.

In-District Tuition/Fees: $840 (effective 2026/27 academic year)

In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.

Prerequisite: **Effective Summer 2026, this course will be withdrawn** Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in OPH 120

Semester(s) Offered: Fall

OPH 232 Ophthalmic Pharmacology (1.5)(1.5,0)

This course introduces students to the fundamentals of pharmacology in ophthalmic practice. Emphasis is placed on methods of drug delivery, interpreting and dispensing prescriptions, and understanding the indications, contraindications, and side effects of commonly used ophthalmic medications. Students will develop the knowledge needed to safely support medication use in clinical eye care, including patient education and compliance strategies. (1.2) Proficiency Credit: Not Available Pass/No Credit: Not Available.

In-District Tuition/Fees: $222 (effective 2026/27 academic year)

In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.

Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in OPH 103, or consent of instructor

Semester(s) Offered: Summer

OPH 235 Ophthalmic Technician Clinical II (2.5)(0,12.5)

Ophthalmic Technician Clinical II provides students with supervised experience in intermediate ophthalmic procedures within an affiliated clinical setting. Building upon introductory skills, students develop competence in pupil assessment, Goldmann applanation tonometry, refraction, and intermediate-level history taking. (1.2) Proficiency Credit: Not Available Pass/No Credit: Not Available.

In-District Tuition/Fees: $370 (effective 2026/27 academic year)

In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.

Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in OPH 125

Semester(s) Offered: Fall

OPH 240 Principles of Ophthalmic Tech IV (3)(2.5,1)

This course continues to build on advanced optical skills with the addition of retinoscopy. Advanced supplementary testing and low vision are covered. Preparation for the JCAHPO COT certification exam is also included. (1.2) Proficiency Credit: Not Available Pass/No Credit: Not Available.

In-District Tuition/Fees: $494 (effective 2026/27 academic year)

In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.

Prerequisite: **Effective Summer 2026, this course will be withdrawn** Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in OPH 230.

Semester(s) Offered: Spring

OPH 242 Adv Ophthalmic Pt & Clin Support (2)(2,0)

Advanced Ophthalmic Patient & Clinical Support builds advanced skills in patient support, clinical coordination, and interprofessional communication in ophthalmic care. Students will deepen their understanding of systemic disease processes and their ocular manifestations, refine advanced patient education and counseling skills, and enhance emergency preparedness in complex clinical scenarios. Students will develop skills in managing multi-specialty workflows, addressing ethical dilemmas, and troubleshooting common clinical errors to improve patient safety and care outcomes. (1.2) Proficiency Credit: Not Available Pass/No Credit: Not Available.

In-District Tuition/Fees: $296 (effective 2026/27 academic year)

In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.

Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in OPH 122, or consent of instructor

Semester(s) Offered: Fall

OPH 243 Advanced Ophthalmic Optics & Refract (2)(1,2)

Advanced Ophthalmic Optics & Refractometry advances the student's knowledge and technical proficiency in the measurement, analysis, and correction of refractive errors. Students will apply principles of geometric and physiological optics to complex clinical scenarios. Practical skills will focus on advanced manual lensometry, retinoscopy, subjective refraction, keratometry, and contact lens assessment. Students will use precise clinical techniques to optimize visual outcomes for diverse patient populations, including pediatric, post-surgical, and low-vision cases. (1.2) Proficiency Credit: Not Available Pass/No Credit: Not Available.

In-District Tuition/Fees: $296 (effective 2026/27 academic year)

In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.

Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in OPH 123, or consent of instructor

Semester(s) Offered: Fall

OPH 244 Ophthalmic Clinical Procedures III (2)(2,0)

This advanced course builds upon foundational ophthalmic clinical skills, emphasizing complex diagnostic procedures, ocular motility assessment, and advanced ophthalmic imaging. Students will perform and interpret a variety of supplementary and special diagnostic tests, apply standardized equipment protocols, and provide patient education related to procedures. (1.2) Proficiency Credit: Not Available Pass/No Credit: Not Available.

In-District Tuition/Fees: $296 (effective 2026/27 academic year)

In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.

Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in OPH 124, or consent of instructor

Semester(s) Offered: Fall

OPH 245 Ophthalmic Technician Clinical III (2)(0,10)

The student will further apply knowledge and practice skills with hands-on opportunities during clinical experiences under the supervision of a licensed ophthalmologist. Students work towards furthering competency and refinement of advanced ophthalmic skills. (1.2) Proficiency Credit: Not Available Pass/No Credit: Not Available.

In-District Tuition/Fees: $296 (effective 2026/27 academic year)

In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.

Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in OPH 243 and OPH 244, or consent of instructor

Semester(s) Offered: Summer

OPH 250 Ophthalmic Technician Capstone (2)(2,0)

This culminating course provides students with the opportunity to integrate and apply advanced knowledge and skills acquired throughout the Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT) program. Students will analyze complex ophthalmic cases, interpret scientific literature, and communicate professionally in both clinical and employment-related contexts. Emphasis is placed on case synthesis, evidence-based reasoning, certification exam preparation, and career readiness. The course also fosters professional reflection and encourages the development of lifelong learning strategies. (1.2) Proficiency Credit: Not Available Pass/No Credit: Not Available.

In-District Tuition/Fees: $296 (effective 2026/27 academic year)

In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.

Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in OPH 243 and OPH 244, or consent of instructor

Semester(s) Offered: Spring

OPH 255 Ophthalmic Technician Clinical IV (4)(20)

Ophthalmic Technician Clinical IV is the culminating clinical experience of the program, designed to prepare students for entry-level Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT) practice. Under supervision in affiliated ophthalmic clinics, students refine previously learned skills while developing proficiency in advanced techniques including retinoscopy and fundus photography. Emphasis is placed on independent performance of clinical procedures, professional communication, and application of critical thinking across all aspects of the ophthalmic examination. (1.2) Proficiency Credit: Not Available Pass/No Credit: Not Available.

In-District Tuition/Fees: $592 (effective 2026/27 academic year)

In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.

Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in OPH 245 and concurrent enrollment in OPH 250, or consent of instructor

Semester(s) Offered: Spring