Ophthalmic Technician

New in May 2025!! 

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: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h0EtWTRQjA4. 

Course Structure:

Lecture and Hands-on Clinical Practice: 60 hours 

Program Dates:

• May 27, 2025 – June 27, 2025
• Tuesdays and Thursdays 5pm – 8pm (lectures)
• Saturdays 9am – 3pm (hands-on clinical training)

Lecture Location: Hybrid, Virtual & In-person, CCRI Knight Campus, Warwick

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

Unpaid Internship with an Employer: 60 hours 

Internship Start Date: June 30, 2025. 
Completion date will depend on each student’s internship schedule but should be completed no later than August 1, 2025. 
 

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.