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Dispensing opticians fit and supply glasses for people with prescriptions. They also give advice on vision care. Learn more about what it’s like to be a dispensing optician, what you need to do to qualify and how your career could progress.
To qualify, you’ll need to complete a university course in ophthalmic dispensing.
There are different options for studying. You can do a full time course for two years, then one year of supervised working. Or, if you’re already in a related job, you can work and study over three years.
Subjects to consider include:
Before you do any clinical work at uni, you’ll need to join the student register of the General Optical Council.
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You don’t need a postgraduate qualification for this role, but studying one could help you specialise or work in other areas.
Examples of taught Masters degrees are:
This is a public-facing role, so you’ll need to be personable and enjoy working with people. It’s also an advantage to have an interest in fashion, as you’ll be helping people pick out new frames to suit their face.
Work experience can really help you to get a place on a course. You might be able to get a job as an assistant in an opticians. Or, you could ask your local dispensing optician if you can spend a day shadowing them.
You should be getting lots of practical experience while studying, so make sure to make the most of any opportunities you’re offered. This will give you the best chance of securing a permanent job when you qualify.
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