Ophthalmic Assistant Certificate Program

Ophthalmic Assistant Certificate Program

Classes Start September 30th

In our Ophthalmic Assistant Certificate Program at CHCP in Texas, you will be trained in the skills needed to assist ophthalmologists and optometrists in patient eye care.

The College of Health Care Professions is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) and was founded by doctors over 30 years ago. Our ophthalmic assistant certification training is designed by industry experts with a focus on core skills and flexibility to prepare you to begin your new career as a health professional. Our blended program meets one day per week and offers lectures online, hands-on labs, and an in person clinical externships.

What is an Ophthalmic Assistant?

  • An ophthalmic assistant helps ophthalmologists and optometrists perform their day-to-day duties with patients performing preliminary exams and diagnostic tests, administering medications and assisting in minor office procedures.
  • An ophthalmic assistant can work in a variety of environments like ophthalmic and optometric practices, general medical and surgical hospitals, outpatient care centers, and clinical research facilities.

Program Details

Program Length

On-Campus: 36 weeks

COURSES

You can take this program via blended learning at our Fort Worth campus.

Blended learning is comprised of both online classes and in-person classes allowing you to learn ophthalmology techniques online while receiving the hands-on medical training you need in person.

MODULE IMODULE IIMODULE IIIMODULE IVMODULE VMODULE VI

Introduction to Ophthalmic Assisting

COA100

In this course students will learn the roles of the Ophthalmic Assistant and other associated roles of the ophthalmic care team. Students will discuss the medical ethics, legal issues, and regulatory issues associated with their position. Students will learn appropriate communication skills, patient education and ophthalmic counseling practices. Students will learn the importance of community health eye care and safety. Finally, students will discuss certification and the requirements to move from assistant to technician as their career progresses. Prerequisite: None

Lecture48hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours48hr.
Credits3 

Ocular Anatomy, Physiology and Terminology

COA110

This course introduces students to the eye's function, anatomy, and physiology. Students will be introduced to common ocular conditions, diseases, disorders, and terminology including ophthalmic acronyms and abbreviations. In addition, students will discuss the eye as an optical system and identify its components. Finally, students will be introduced to systemic diseases coupled with ocular manifestations and the necessary testing used determine diagnoses. Prerequisite: None

Lecture48hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours48hr.
Credits3 

Comprehensive Medical Exam

COA200

This course will introduce students to the fundamentals of a comprehensive medical eye examination and patient work up, including; History taking/scribing, visual assessment, visual fields, pupillary assessment, lensometry, keratometry, tonometry, biometry and supplementary tests. Students will learn how to perform an exam of the eyes and face including checking angles. The students will practice their skills in a comprehensive clinical lab setting. Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture48hr.
Laboratory32hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours80hr.
Credits4 

Refractive States of the Eye(s)

COA210

In this course students will learn the refractive states of the eye(s) which include emmetropia and the various ametropias such as myopia, hyperopia, regular astigmatism and how each one affects the vision. In addition, they will learn the cause(s) and treatment(s) for each one. Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture36hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours36hr.
Credits2 

Clinical Optics and Refraction

COA220

This course introduces students to clinical optics, and refractometry basics. Students will explore contact lenses, auto/manual lensometry, transposition and measuring the patient's prescription. Additionally, students will discuss the various types and uses of spectacles and contact lenses. Finally, students will examine common ophthalmic equipment and learn the basics of refractometry to determine a patient's prescription. Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture36hr.
Laboratory24hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours60hr.
Credits3 

Patient Interaction, Emergencies and Triage

COA230

This course will discuss the importance of patient-assistant interaction including; Emotional Intelligence, greeting, screening, triage and appointments. The student will also learn about HIPPA, disruptive patients, and patients with various special concerns as well as emergencies. The students will learn the fundamentals of CPR, Vitals and First Aid. Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture32hr.
Laboratory16hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours48hr.
Credits2.5 

Ocular Pharmacology and Infection Control

COA240

This course will introduce the components of microbiology, infection control and the basics of ophtha pharmacology. They will learn the types of microorganisms, transmission types of infectious diseases, univ precaution and infection control. They will also learn the delivery systems of different drugs, how to des the indications, contraindications and potential side effects. Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture32hr.
Laboratory16hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours48hr.
Credits2.5 

Refractive and Minor Surgical Concepts

COA250

In this course students will learn the key concepts of minor surgical assisting in the office. They will learn to clean, sterilize and prepare instruments for in office procedures as well as the disposal of materials. They learn the common types of procedures, medications and instruments used. Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture32hr.
Laboratory16hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours48hr.
Credits2.5 

Customer Service/Professionalism and Career Preparation

CSP201

This course will teach the student about professionalism, including work-place behaviors that result in positive business relationships. Students will learn goal-setting, stress-management, time-management, professional dress, etiquette, diversity in the work place relationships, excellent customer service, communication at work, conflict management, job search skills, building resumes, and interview techniques. Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture30hr.
Laboratory18hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours48hr.
Credits2.5 

COA Certification Preparation

COAC300

Students will apply knowledge and skills acquired in the classroom and laboratory in preparation for the certification exam. Prerequisite: Modules I-V

Lecture32hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship0hr.
Total Hours32hr.
Credits2 

COA Clinical Externship

COAX310

Students will apply knowledge and skills acquired in the classroom and laboratory in a clinical setting. Prerequisite: Modules I-V

Lecture0hr.
Laboratory0hr.
Externship450hr.
Total Hours450hr.
Credits10 

About the Ophthalmic Assistant Certificate Program

The goal of our Ophthalmic Assistant Certificate Program is to prepare you for an entry-level career as an ophthalmic assistant. You will learn how to evaluate patients, assist with interventions and procedures, perform imaging, and perform office and clinical skills.

Graduates of our Ophthalmic Assistant Certificate Program acquire the skills necessary to become an assistant in an ophthalmology or optometry practice. You will be able to provide assistance in patient evaluation, administrative tasks, and help create a caring environment for patients and their families as they move through the examination and treatment process.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Ophthalmology Assistant Program

How to become a certified Ophthalmic Assistant?

To become a certified Ophthalmic Assistant, you first need to complete a certificate program. In addition to enrolling in a training program, many individuals obtain certifications to enhance their credentials. By passing the certification exams you demonstrate your knowledge and abilities as an Ophthalmic Assistant.

How long does it take to become an Ophthalmic Assistant?

At CHCP, you can complete the Ophthalmic Assistant Certificate Program in as few as 36 weeks. After completing the program, individuals will have to pass a certification exam before entering in to a career as an Ophthalmic Assistant.

Do you have to be certified to be an Ophthalmic Assistant?

While certification is not required, it is highly recommended and necessary for some employers to become an Ophthalmic Assistant. Certification demonstrates that you have met specific education and training standards, and may improve your job prospects and earning potential. CHCP's Ophthalmic Assistant Program offers a class specific to preparing students to pass the Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) Examination.

If you are ready or if you need more information, simply fill out the form to have one of our Admissions Advisors contact you! Take the first step towards your new healthcare career as an ophthalmic assistant.

Start Your Application

Train to Become an Ophthalmic Assistant at CHCP

If you are ready to enroll, you must first meet the following requirements:

  • A high school diploma or GED
  • Pass the Scholastic Level Exam with a minimum score of 10
  • Ability to proficiently read, write, and understand English
  • Excellent coordination and dexterity
  • Professional demeanor and presentation

Get answers to our frequently asked questions. We are here to help you every step of the way from personalized student support, job placement assistance, and career services for life. We can help you get started with financial aid options and affordable payment plans that are available to those who qualify. Contact an Advisor Today!

If you are ready or if you need more information, simply fill out the form to have one of our Admissions Advisors contact you! Take the first step towards your new healthcare career as an ophthalmic assistant.

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