Become a Licensed Optician

  • $1000 tuition discount for September 2025 start*
  • 1 year online program with 10 weeks of in-person labs in Surrey, B.C
  • Wages range between $25-$35
  • Regulated health care profession recognized by the National Association of Canadian Optician Regulators (NACOR) and the

    College of Health and Care Professionals of British Columbia (CHCPBC)

*some conditions apply

About the Career

Opticians are one of the three “O’s” of eye care careers, with the other two being Ophthalmologists and Optometrists. Licensed Opticians are one of 26 designated health professions regulated under the Health Professions Act in B.C. They advise, design and produce optical products such as eyeglasses, contact lenses, low-vision and specialized products.

Key Information

  • Delivery: ONLINE with in-person labs
  • Duration: 1 year, including a 10 week practicum
  • Starts: April and November
  • Credential: Diploma
  • Designation: Licensed Optician (upon successful completion of licensing exams)
  • Wages: Range between $25-$35
  • Articulation – Direct Pathway (Post-Graduation): Graduates are eligible to apply for BCIT’s Business Management Advanced Diploma. Upon completion, they can continue to BCIT’s Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA).

About the Program

Through a combination of theory, practice (labs), and application (practicum), you will be extensively trained in eyeglass dispensing, contact lens fitting and automated refraction. Beyond the technological skills, emphasis is placed on interpersonal communication, customer service and professional practice.

This program is recognized by the College of Health and Care Professionals of British Columbia (CHCPBC) as well as the National Association of Canadian Optician Regulators (NACOR). Our graduates are well-prepared to take the national licensing exams.

 

Where You’ll Work

As a Licensed Optician, you’ll find opportunities for employment with:

  • Optometry clinics (work with Optometrists)
  • Optical stores (independent or chain)
  • Ophthalmology offices
  • Optics labs
  • Independent business offices
  • Professional eye care sales

Over 90% Employment Rate

**Over 90% of our Optician grads are employed within their field within 6 months of program completion (as of May 2025)

Student and Grad Reviews

Get Info Now!

Get in touch with a Program Advisor today!


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Stenberg College is designated by the BC government’s Ministry of Advanced Education through the Private Training Institutions Regulatory Unit (PTIRU). This program is approved by PTIRU, which is responsible for setting standards of quality and ensuring consumer protection. Stenberg College has also received the BC government’s Education Quality Assurance (EQA) designation, which is BC’s brand or “seal” of quality post-secondary education for public and private institutions.