Can I Become an Optician/Optometrist Without Extensive Knowledge on Lasers and Optics?

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SUMMARY

Becoming an optician or optometrist without extensive knowledge of lasers and optics is feasible, particularly for individuals with an undergraduate degree in Physics. The discussion emphasizes that while math skills are necessary, they do not need to be advanced, and the field is competitive but rewarding for those seeking experience rather than financial gain. It is crucial to understand the distinctions between opticians, optometrists, and ophthalmologists, as their training and career paths differ significantly.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of optics and lenses
  • Familiarity with undergraduate Physics concepts
  • Knowledge of the differences between opticians, optometrists, and ophthalmologists
  • Basic math skills, particularly in algebra and geometry
NEXT STEPS
  • Research opticianry programs, such as those listed on VCCS
  • Explore the educational requirements for optometrists and ophthalmologists
  • Learn about the career paths and responsibilities of opticians versus optometrists
  • Investigate the role of math in optical sciences and related fields
USEFUL FOR

Individuals considering a career in opticianry or optometry, students pursuing a degree in Physics, and those interested in understanding the optical health field.

wolly
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I didn't studied a lot about lasers and devices for optics other than lenses in high school.Do I stand a chance here?I mean the math isn't hard but I'm not sure if it is a competitive field.Is it worth it?I don't do it for the money and I will do this for experience.
I hope you can share your opinions about this career.
 
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wolly said:
I mean the math isn't hard
I thought you said you didn't like algebra and geometry?
 
berkeman said:
I thought you said you didn't like algebra and geometry?
Math is not a problem.I know to solve most of it but not all.
 
Is this the wrong place to talk about this?
 
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wolly said:
Is this the wrong place to talk about this?
No, the Career Guidance forum is appropriate for this kind of question. I just think your previous thread where it appeared you really wanted to stay away from technical subjects and careers has put off the folks who normally respond to this type of question.
 
wolly said:
I didn't studied a lot about lasers and devices for optics other than lenses in high school.Do I stand a chance here?I mean the math isn't hard but I'm not sure if it is a competitive field.Is it worth it?I don't do it for the money and I will do this for experience.
I hope you can share your opinions about this career.
You may have a chance here. Undergraduate degree objective in Physics could be the preparation to put you in the direction of optician or something. Later, do you want to work in health & treatment? Or do you want to work with fitting people for lenses and frames?

I just did a very quick online search but you should check your own search and inquiries to various schools...
http://courses.vccs.edu/colleges/jsrcc/programs/51.1801-OpticianryOphthalmicDispensingOptician

That is just on example of information quickly found.
 
Is there a chance of promotion if you want to become a doctor?I mean I never had a chemistry lab in high school and school and I learned so little.
 
wolly said:
Is there a chance of promotion if you want to become a doctor?
No. The training for an optometrist is very different from the training a medical doctor goes through.
 
wolly said:
Is there a chance of promotion if you want to become a doctor?I mean I never had a chemistry lab in high school and school and I learned so little.
As @Mark44 says, they are very different...

https://aapos.org/terms/conditions/132
Difference between an Ophthalmologist, Optometrist and Optician
 

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