Optical Sciences Eyeglasses Diploma
The Eyeglasses program is a two-year independent study Diploma program for opticianry. In addition to the two years of theory, four levels of Practicum are required. Practicum consists of on-the-job training, similar in nature to an apprenticeship, and is necessary as part of the clinical aspect of the program. 2000 hours under direct supervision are required.
Once a student has successfully completed the Eyeglass program from a NACOR Accredited School (Georgian College, Seneca, Douglas College or NAIT) he/she is eligible to sit the NACOR Licensing Exam ...Upon passing the licensing exam, students may apply for registration to SCO. An ophthalmic dispensing license allows an Optician to dispense eyeglasses in the province of Saskatchewan.
Grade System
Academic: Pass = 63% or higher; Fail = 62% or lower
Practicum Levels: Pass or Fail
Optical Sciences Advanced Practice Contact Lenses
The Contact Lens Program is a two-year online, independent study certificate program. The Contact Lens Program is an advanced practice and, as such, the potential student must be a registered optician. In addition to the two years of theory, four levels of Practicum are required. Practicum consists of on-the-job training, similar in nature to an apprenticeship, and is necessary as part of the clinical aspect of the program. 500 hours under direct supervision are required.
Once a student has successfully completed the Contact Lens program from a NACOR Accredited School (Georgian College, Seneca, Douglas College or NAIT) he/she is eligible to sit the NACOR Licensing Exam Upon passing the licensing exam, students may apply for registration to SCO as a contact lens dispenser, this dispensing license allows an Optician to fit and dispense contact lenses in the province of Saskatchewan.
Grade System
Academic: Pass = 63% or higher; Fail = 62% or lower
Practicum Levels: Pass or Fail
Contact the Saskatchewan College of Opticians for more information on how to apply.
Optical Sciences Advanced Practice Year Two Sight Testing
The Sight Testing Program is a two*-year online, independent study program. The Sight Testing Program is an advanced practice and, as such, the potential student must be a Registered Optician. In addition to the two* years of theory, a practicum component will be required.
* Individuals who have already obtained licensure in an Advanced Practice (i.e. Contact Lens License) may enrol directly into the second year of the Advanced Practice Sight Testing Program
Accreditation
At the time of publication, Refracting (Sight Testing) is not currently within the scope of practice of Opticians in Saskatchewan, this course is for educational purposes only in Saskatchewan.This program has, however, been approved and meets the criteria as required by the Standard of Practice for British Columbia and Ontario.
Grade System
Academic: Pass = 63% or higher; Fail = 62% or lower
Practicum Levels: Pass or Fail
Automated Refracting Theory
The Automated Refracting Theory course is a 12-week online, independent study program offered to Licensed Opticians. The course is accredited for continuing education credits in British Columbia for 27 MCE credits and is currently awaiting continuing education accreditation for the remaining provinces. The course is designed both as an educational resource and as a training vehicle for those provinces requiring a training pathway for automated refracting certification.
Public education and safety are major themes running through all phases of the Automated Refracting Course. Topics include pre-screening format, interview protocols, recognizing elements of family/personal medical history requiring referral, documentation requirements, privacy issues, design and execution of general public education and client education programs and client consent forms, knowledge of automated sight testing equipment and interpretation of results of automated sight testing equipment.
The course contains a course of study governed by prescribed textbooks and online course material. Students must complete online assessments and assignments, participate in online discussions, and complete a written final examination.
Course Length: Twelve (12) Weeks
Start and End Dates:
September Intake: September 13 to December 6
March Intake: March 1 to May 23
Enrolment Deadlines: *Applications will not be accepted after the deadline
October Intake: August 1st
March Intake: February 1st
Entrance Requirements
Applicant must be a Licensed/Registered Optician and have knowledge of the terminology and concepts related to the field of Opticianry.
Certification
Automated Refracting Theory Continuing Education Certificate
Delivery Method
Academic courses are delivered online using Blackboard e-learning system. Scheduled final exam is in a printed format.
Grade System
Academic: Pass = 63% or higher; Fail = 62% or lower
Practicum Levels: Pass or Fail
Registration
Students interested in participating in the Automated Refracting Theory course must contact the Opticians Association of Canada Education Department for a course information package and application form.
Ph. 1.800.847.3155,
Email. education@opticians.ca