The Ontario government has issued a province-wide stay-at-home order. Seneca’s on-campus learning activities will continue as scheduled. Access to Seneca’s campuses is limited due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Information about critical dates and program delivery for the Summer 2021 term and Fall 2021 term is now available.
Check the program delivery web page to see if this program will be delivered online or in hybrid format for the upcoming term. Learn more about technical requirements for online learning.
In this two-year diploma program, you will acquire the specialized knowledge and skills required to safely and competently dispense subnormal vision devices, contact lenses and eyeglasses. You will also learn the basic science of sight and optics and develop practical spectacle fabrication and dispensing skills.
A mandatory program requirement in a formal work environment. The work term(s) is similar in length to an academic semester and typically involves full-time work hours that may be paid or unpaid. Students must be in good standing and meet all identified requirements prior to participating in the work experience. The successful completion of the work term(s) is required for graduation. Eligibility for participation does not guarantee that a work position will be secured. Additional fees are required for the mandatory work term regardless of success in securing a work position.
| September | January | May | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | Semester 1 | Semester 2 | Semester 3 |
| Year 2 | Work Term 1 | Semester 4 | Work Term 2 |
When you graduate from this program, these are the types of employers waiting for you:
Retail optical dispensaries
Contact lens clinics
Medical clinics
Health care delivery team
As a student of this program, you are required to complete an Emergency First Aid/Heartsaver CPR course from Seneca, St. John Ambulance, Canadian Red Cross or equivalent. Certifications cannot expire during the calendar year of graduation. It is your responsibility to provide proof of certification prior to graduation.
Seneca's Opticianry program is recognized by the College of Opticians of Ontario. To practice in Ontario as a Registered Optician, you must pass the national registration examination, among other requirements. You can find more information on how to become an optician at the Opticians Council of Canada.
To work in the Canadian health care industry, you must take a medical examination while applying for your work permit. More information is available on the Government of Canada website.
