Opticianry (OPTC)

Starts in September

Campus

Newnham

Delivery

Hybrid

Duration

4 Semesters (2 Years)

Study Option

Full-time & Part-time

Credential

Ontario College Diploma

School

School of Health Sciences

About the Program

This two‑year diploma program equips you with the specialized knowledge and hands‑on skills needed to safely and competently dispense eyeglasses, contact lenses and subnormal vision devices. You will study the science of sight, optics and eye refraction in your theory courses while developing practical competencies in laboratory settings, where you learn to fit and dispense eyewear and contact lenses.

The program follows a fast‑track work‑integrated learning model, delivered without semester breaks, so you can graduate sooner. Theory, lab training and work integrated learning terms are woven throughout the curriculum to build both confidence and real‑world experience. Graduates are fully prepared to register for the entry‑to‑practice examinations offered by the National Alliance of Canadian Optician Regulators (NACOR).

This program is offered both full-time and part-time in a hybrid delivery format. In this format, you'll have the option to complete some courses online alongside in person labs.

Part-time option is available >

Work Experience

Mandatory Work Term

This program includes a mandatory work term to provide you with valuable hands-on experience in your field of study. A mandatory work term is similar in length to an academic semester and typically involves full-time work hours that may be paid or unpaid. It is typically completed between two academic semesters and requires a minimum of 420 hours of work experience. Students must be in good standing and meet all identified requirements prior to participating in the work experience. Successful completion of the work term(s) is required for graduation.

The work term search is student-driven and participation does not guarantee that a work position will be secured. However, students will receive guidance and support through in-class career workshops and one-on-one coaching to help prepare for the work term. Additional fees are required for programs with a mandatory work term, regardless of success in securing a work position. For more information, see fee details.

Work-Integrated Learning Model
Year	September	January	May
Year 1	Semester 1	Semester 2	Semester 3
Year 2	Work Term 1	Semester 4	Work Term 2

Start in	Location	Availability
Sept. 2026	Newnham	Open

Availability is subject to change and a seat is not guaranteed.

Start in	Location	Availability
Sept. 2026	Newnham	Open

Availability is subject to change and a seat is not guaranteed.

Program and Course Delivery

This program is offered in Seneca's hybrid delivery format with some courses available in Seneca's flexible delivery format. Some coursework is online and some must be completed in person. Students will need to come on campus to complete in-person learning requirements.

In courses delivered in the flexible format, using interactive learning spaces, professors teach in person to students in a physical classroom or lab and stream to students online at the same time. Students have a choice of coming to campus for an in-person experience or learning online.

Learn more: Seneca’s program delivery options and how courses in this program will be delivered each term.

Your Career

When you graduate from this program, these are the types of career options you can explore:

Retail optical dispensaries
Contact lens clinics
Medical clinics
Health care delivery team

Professional Certification

As a student of this program, you are required to complete an Emergency First Aid/Heartsaver CPR course from Seneca, St. John Ambulance, Canadian Red Cross or equivalent. Certifications cannot expire during the calendar year of graduation. It is your responsibility to provide proof of certification prior to graduation.

Seneca's Opticianry program is recognized by the College of Opticians of Ontario. To practice in Ontario as a Registered Optician, you must pass the national registration examination, among other requirements. You can find more information on how to become an optician at the Opticians Council of Canada.

Note for International students

To work in the Canadian health care industry, you must take a medical examination while applying for your work permit. More information is available on the Government of Canada website.

The Seneca Polytechnic Difference

This is where university meets college. Where theory meets practice. Where ambition meets flexibility.

Opticianry Lab

You will gain hands-on, practical experience in our state-of-the-art opticianry lab, preparing you for your in-demand career.

Experiential Learning

Graduate career ready and world ready. This program has a mandatory work term to help you hone essential skills for the workplace.

Degree Pathways

Every Seneca diploma has a degree pathway. You have the opportunity to continue your studies and complete a degree at Seneca or a partner institution.

Prior Experience

Earn credit for previous studies, work experience or training through Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition and transfer credits.

Student Experience

Industry Connections

This program provides you with opportunities to engage with state-of-the-art products and network with industry professionals, fostering valuable insight and connections.

Applied Research Spaces & Labs

As part of this program, you will have access to state-of-the-art equipment and labs including the HOYA Vision Care Eyeglass Dispensing Lab — equipped with professional-grade technology, the laboratory provides you with the tools you need to master essential skills in eyeglass dispensing.

Hands-On Learning

Join Program Coordinator Tatiana Mighiu in our new HOYA Vision Care and Refraction Labs, where you’ll see real students in action and discover how hands-on learning sets you up for success.