In BC, the titles “optician,” “dispensing optician,” and “contact lens fitter” (and any titles derived thereof, such as “student optician,” “optical dispenser,” or “dispenser”) are reserved titles. In addition, contact lens fitting and automated refracting are restricted activities. Anyone wishing to practice opticianry, identify with these titles, and/or conduct restricted activities in BC is required to register with COBC.
Becoming an Optician
The following opticianry programs are accredited; this means they are recognized by COBC and NACOR as providing adequate training for the purpose of becoming licensed to practice in BC:
- Douglas College: Dispensing Opticianry Diploma
- Located in BC’s Lower Mainland
- Offers training in opticianry, contact lens fitting, and refraction in a combined 2-year program.
- Stenberg College: Licensed Optician Diploma
- Located in BC’s Lower Mainland
- Offers training in opticianry, contact lens fitting, and refraction in a combined 2-year program.
- Northern Alberta Institute of Technology: Optical Sciences Diploma
- Available online across Canada
- Offers a 2-year opticianry training program, with optional add-on programs for contact lens fitting and refraction (each 1 year in length).
- French language offering available.
The following institutions outside of BC also offer accredited programs:
- Collège la Cité (Ontario)
- Georgian College (Ontario)
- Seneca College (Ontario)
- Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (Alberta)
NOTE: Accredited programs must be completed in full.
Once you have successfully completed an accredited opticianry program, the next step is writing the national licensing examination(s).