Become a Licensed Optician
Online with 10 weeks of in-person labs in Surrey, BC
1 year, including a 10-week practicum | Start: March and September
$25-$35/hour
College of Health and Care Professionals of BC (CHCPBC) and National Association of Canadian Optician Regulators (NACOR)
Surrey
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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.
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).
Where You'll Work
Optometry Clinics
Optical Stores
Ophthalmology Offices
Optics Labs
Independent Business Offices
Professional Eye Care Sales
About Stenberg College's Optician 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.
*some conditions apply
Key Program Info
- 💻 Delivery: ONLINE with in-person labs
- ⏱️ Duration: 1 year, including a 10 week practicum
- 📅 Starts: March and September
- 📜 Credential: Diploma
- ⭐ Designation: Licensed Optician (upon successful completion of licensing exams)
- 💰 Wages: Range between $25-$35/hour
- 🎓 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).
Scholarships
March 2026 Start
$1000 tuition discount for the March 2026 start*
*Conditions apply and offers cannot be combined.
Accreditation and Recognition
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 the PTIRU of the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills. PTIRU 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.
Stories from our grads