Diploma in Optician, Vancouver Community College

Vancouver, British Columbia

24 Months

Check Eligibility

About this course

The VCC Optician Diploma program offers a comprehensive education in eyeglasses, contact lenses, low vision devices, and automated refraction. Students learn to apply national competencies for Canadian opticians, practice within relevant legislation, and build collaborative relationships with patients and industry professionals. The program emphasizes practical, experiential learning with hands-on practice in a fully functioning opticianry lab and includes industry-relevant certifications. Graduates are prepared to dispense eyeglasses, contact lenses, and low-vision devices safely and ethically, providing personalized patient care and education. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, fostering skills in business management, vision assessment, and customer service, all geared toward a professional career as an optician in Canada.

Why this course is highly recommended

Graduates of this program are eligible to write the NACOR exams, which can be essential for licensing and practicing as an optician in Canada. The program’s accreditation with conditions by Accreditation Canada/Equal ensures high-quality training aligned with national standards. Its comprehensive curriculum covers both theoretical and practical skills, and the inclusion of certifications increases employability. The emphasis on patient-centered care, professional ethics, and business skills makes this program a strong choice for those looking to build a reputable career in optical health services.

Specialisation

The program specializes in the science and practice of optical care, including eyeglasses, contact lenses, low vision devices, and refractive systems. It prepares students to meet the standards set by the College of Opticians of BC and to work as licensed opticians in Canada, with a focus on practical dispensing skills, patient care, and industry standards.

Course fees

Application fees

14.44L

1st year tuition fees

14.44L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants need to have a Grade 12 graduation or equivalent, including English Studies 12 with at least a 'C-' grade, and Foundations of Math 11 with at least a 'C' grade. International applicants must be 17 years or older or a graduate of secondary school. A Criminal Record Check is also required before practicum experiences. All applicants must submit official transcripts and meet English language requirements as specified by VCC.

English language test

PTE

TOEFL

IELTS

DUOLINGO

115

Career prospects

Graduates of the Optician Diploma program are well-positioned to work as licensed opticians in Canada. They can dispense eyeglasses, contact lenses, and low vision devices, while also engaging in patient care, product sales, and optical practice management. The program’s industry certifications and accreditation support employment in optical clinics, retail optical outlets, and private practices, offering a range of opportunities within optical health care and customer service industries.

FAQs

Is this program currently accepting applications?

No, the Optician Diploma program at VCC is currently closed and not accepting applications.

What are the main learning outcomes of this program?

Students learn to dispense eyewear, perform vision assessments, understand optics and ocular health, practice ethically, and develop business skills relevant to the optical industry.