In this foundational course, students learn practical skills to promote effective communication with patients and colleagues. Concepts in the relationship between sales and communication in the optical industry are explored, and students are encouraged to become more aware of the impact of their own communication choices and patterns. Students develop and practice communication techniques that demonstrate personal awareness, respect, and active listening skills. Communication theory, therapeutic communication, cross-cultural communication, and effective teamwork are all covered. Students receive a comprehensive introduction to the professional sales and communication cycle in the eyecare profession.

In this course students will learn the concepts of ocular anatomy, pathology, physiology, medical terminology and pharmacology as it pertains to the eye. This course provides an overview of the structure and function of each component of the visual system and the external anatomical structures. Students will learn the photochemistry of vision and visual systems.

This course introduces students to the regulations and legislation that inform the opticianry practice in British Columbia. Students will be provided with an in depth look at the Health Professions Act, Code of Ethics, and the Standards of Practice set out by the College of Opticians of BC (COBC). Students learn how to use analytical and critical thinking skills in dealing with ethics and professional practice.

Building on the knowledge gained in OPTC 1110 Anatomy & Physiology of the Eye, this course provides a detailed overview of the basic principles of light, plane and curved surfaces of mirrors and lenses. Students review mathematical principles related to algebra, geometry, and trigonometry, and practice mathematical calculations needed for opticianry practice. The photochemistry of vision is studied along with the concept of visual fields. Students are introduced to monocular and binocular vision and compare the effects of each on depth perception and visual acuity.

In this extensive course, students investigate all aspects of eyeglass production and delivery to the client. This course provides a comprehensive overview of lens theory, interpretation of prescriptions, types of materials and an introduction to the instruments of the trade. Students learn the variety of lens and frame selections along with the manufacturing process. Conducting patient assessments and documentation is explored along with methods of patient teaching. Finally, students learn how to evaluate eyeglasses and how to provide follow up care to patients.

During this lab based course, students have the opportunity to turn their theoretical knowledge into real world practice as they apply their learning in the eyeglasses lab. This lab practice allows students to become familiar with the instruments, equipment, and tools required for the process of eyeglass dispensing. This hands-on course will teach students how to take ocular measurements, manage infection control and aseptic techniques, as well as safe operating procedures, lens and frames specifications, and validation. Effective customer services skills through professional communications are practiced as students conduct assessments, provide patient teaching, and document appropriately. This course builds on content in OPTC 1140 Eyeglasses Theory.

During this course, students learn how lenses are tinted, spotted, surfaced, edged and mounted into eyeglasses. Students learn the calculations for determining the lens size required to ensure proper fitting into eyewear. Students gain an understanding of the process of rejecting and accepting lenses based on the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standards.

Building on OPTC 1100 Customer Service and Professional Communications 1, students continue to learn about professional customer service and communication. This course provides students with the opportunity to learn how to be an advocate for patients from diverse backgrounds and to demonstrate cultural competence. This course teaches students about dealing with service breakdown, different behaviour styles, and the importance of effective communication in the service industry. This course also builds on knowledge gained in OPTC 1120 Professional Practice & Office Procedures.

This course provides a comprehensive overview of age-related and specific diseases that cause low vision. Students learn the skills and techniques required to assess and support patients, read low vision prescriptions, and explore current products available to patients.

This consolidated practice experience provides students the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in the optical workplace with a focus on eyeglasses. Students receive exposure to the day-to-day operations of the workplace as well as practical experience in professional behaviour, patient care and instrumentation under the direct supervision of an optician, optometrist or ophthalmologist. This practice experience allows students to build on knowledge and skills gained in terms one and two.

During this course, students focus on sales and marketing concepts including gaining insight into patient behaviour, appealing to a target audience, developing promotional strategies, the art of selling to patient's needs, trust based selling, and building long term relationships to retain a loyal customer base.

In this course students have the opportunity to refresh their anatomy and physiology knowledge before exploring eye conditions common to contact lens wearers. Students then learn methods for fitting and dispensing contact lenses. Contact lens materials, manufacturing processes, prescriptions and required instruments are all examined. Students discuss the different products available and how to promote optimal ocular health for contact lens wearers.

This course provides students the opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge to the contact lens laboratory. Students develop their abilities to operate in a safe and competent manner in a supervised lab environment. Students will become proficient in conducting a patient assessment, taking measurements, preparing and ordering lenses, and then fitting, modifying and evaluating the finished contact lenses. Educating the patient on proper care of contact lenses will be emphasized along with providing follow-up care. This course builds on content in OPTC 2320 Contact Lens Theory.

During the consolidated practice experience, students will apply theoretical knowledge in the optical workplace with a focus on contact lenses. Students will receive exposure to the day-to-day operations of the workplace as well as experience in professional behaviour, patient care and instrumentation under the direct supervision of an optician, optometrist or ophthalmologist. This practice experience allows students to build on knowledge and skills gained in terms one, two and three.

This course introduces students to the basic business requirements for establishing and running a small business. Students will learn core skills through investigating the concepts of time management, human resources, inventory control, legislation and regulations, problem solving, and conducting industry and/or product research.

In the beginning of this course students will review the principles of refraction before discussing the pathophysiology of refractive conditions including astigmatism, anisometropia, and aniseikonia. In the second part of this course students will learn the automated refraction process and discuss its limitations, contraindications, and referrals before applying their knowledge of the process in the lab. This course builds on knowledge gained in OPTC 1110 Anatomy and Physiology of the Eye, and OPTC 1130 Foundations of Optics.

This course will be a review of key theoretical and practical knowledge from the program. Students will also receive test-taking skills resources to help them prepare for the license examination.

The preceptorship concludes the program and facilitates the transition from student to graduate. The student will be partnered with an Optician, Optometrist or Ophthalmologist who will assist the student to gradually assume responsibility for entry-level Optician practice. Preceptorship students will have the opportunity to further integrate theory and skills in preparation for entry to practice. Students will have the opportunity to expand their confidence, competency and techniques in a supervised setting. The course builds on the experiential opportunities in OPTC 1250 Consolidate Practice Experience: Eyeglasses and OPTC 2350 Consolidated Practice Experience: Contact Lens.