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What does an Ophthalmic Medical Technician do? 

Ophthalmic medical technicians work alongside ophthalmologists to provide eye care. They perform vision tests, assist during eye procedures, take medical histories, and help patients understand their treatments. It’s a fast-paced, patient-centered role with room to grow into specialty areas. 

What makes your program unique? 

Our hybrid program combines online coursework with in-person clinical training. You’ll get the flexibility of learning from home while building real-world skills in a local eye clinic near you. Plus, our program prepares students to sit for the intermediate-level certification (COT) exam — so you’re not starting at the entry level! 

When does the program start? 

Our program has a fall semester start, and clinical courses are sequential, meaning they are only offered once per year. If you miss this year’s start, you’ll need to wait until next fall. 

How long is the program? 

This is a two-year Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree program, designed to be completed over four semesters. 

Is there a part-time option? 

While the OPMT program is designed as a full-time, two-year AAS degree, students may be able to take (non-clinical) general education courses at a part-time pace before officially beginning the clinical sequence. However, once you start the core OPMT courses, they are sequential and cohort-based, which means they must be taken in order and typically on a full-time schedule. 

If you’re concerned about balancing school with work or family responsibilities, reach out—we’re happy to discuss possible pathways that may work for your situation. 

Is the program fully online? 

The academic (lecture and lab) portion is fully online. However, students must complete hands-on clinical rotations in person at a local ophthalmology clinic. 

Where do I complete clinical rotations? 

We offer two clinical track options*: 

• Track 1 (Unpaid Placement): For students not currently employed in eye care. We’ll help you secure a local clinic for your rotations. 

• Track 2 (Paid Experience): For students already working in ophthalmology. Your paid work hours can count toward clinical requirements. 

*Your employment status at the time of enrollment determines your placement. 

How much does the program cost? 

Tuition is based on Minnesota state community college rates. For current tuition and fee information, visit our tuition page. 

Is financial aid available? 

Yes! Students enrolled in the OPMT program may qualify for federal and state financial aid, including grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. Be sure to complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to find out what you’re eligible for. 

�վ������� /college-services/financial-aid or contact the Financial Aid Office for help getting started:  
Phone: 320-762-4540 
Email: Financial Aid@alextech.edu 

Are scholarships available? 

Absolutely! ATCC offers numerous scholarships for students in technical and health-related programs — including OPMT. You only need to fill out one online application to be considered for dozens of scholarships through the ATCC Foundation, and once you apply, there is automatic matching. 

Learn more and apply* at: /college-services/scholarships 

*You must be enrolled at ATCC to qualify for a scholarship. 

How do I access my courses?  

All online coursework is accessed through Brightspace D2L, a secure and user-friendly learning platform used across Minnesota State colleges. After registering, you’ll receive login credentials and access instructions. Inside D2L, you’ll find your course materials, assignments, discussion boards, quizzes, grades, and instructor feedback — all in one place. 

Do I need a certain type of computer to access course materials on Brightspace D2L? 

Not necessarily — Brightspace D2L is compatible with most modern devices, including Windows and Mac computers.  Some students have issues with Chromebooks and tablets, so they are not recommended for use. For the best user experience, we recommend:  

• A laptop or desktop computer with an updated operating system and a reliable internet connection 

• An updated web browser (like Chrome, Firefox, or Safari) 

• A webcam and microphone for occasional virtual meetings or proctored assessments 

Some features may be limited or harder to navigate on mobile devices. If you’re unsure whether your current device is sufficient, reach out and we’ll help you determine what you need. 

Is there an app for Brightspace? 

Yes — Brightspace offers a mobile app called Pulse. It allows you to view announcements, check your calendar, and receive course notifications on the go. However, Pulse has limited functionality and is best used for quick updates or reminders. For full access to course content, we recommend logging in through a web browser on a PC or MAC computer. 

Will I be certified when I graduate? 

Graduates are eligible to sit for the COT (Certified Ophthalmic Technician) exam through IJCAHPO — the intermediate-level certification in the field. Many programs only prepare students for entry-level certification, so this is a big advantage! 

What are the job prospects like? 

Ophthalmic technicians are in high demand across the country, with opportunities in private practices, hospitals, research, and subspecialties like retina, glaucoma, and pediatrics. It’s a growing field with career mobility and advancement. 

Who teaches the program? 

Our faculty are experienced ophthalmic professionals with years of clinical and teaching experience. They are passionate about student success and bring real-world insights into every course. Read more about our faculty here. 

How do I apply to the OPMT program? 

Start by applying to �������� Technical & Community College through our online application at /apply. After your general college application is processed, you’ll receive instructions on how to submit any required documents for the OPMT program, such as transcripts or placement scores. 

When should I apply? 

We strongly recommend applying as early as possible — ideally in the spring or summer before the fall semester begins. Our program accepts new students once per year in the fall, and courses are sequential, so missing the start means waiting another year. Check the ATCC calendar for important dates.  

Are there any prerequisites? 

There are no specific course prerequisites to enter the program, but students should have: 

• A high school diploma or GED 

• Basic computer skills 

• The ability to meet clinical site requirements (such as background checks and immunizations) 

If you’re unsure about your eligibility, feel free to reach out to  our admissions department: 

Phone: 320-762-4600 

Email: go@alextech.edu 

How will I know I’ve been accepted? 

Once your application is processed and all required materials are received, you’ll be notified of your acceptance via email and/or postal mail. Be sure to check your inbox regularly and respond promptly to any requests from admissions or advising. 

I’ve been accepted — what happens next? 

Congratulations! Once admitted, you’ll: 

1. Complete any placement testing (if required) 

2. Register for classes with help from an advisor. 

3. Attend a student information webinar via Zoom. 

4. Receive instructions for logging in to Brightspace D2L and getting started with your courses. 

Where can I learn more? 

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• Learn more about the program. 

• View the curriculum. 

• Check out our blog. 

• Apply online. 

• Register for an upcoming student information webinar. 

Do you still have questions? Email our Ophthalmic Program Director, Kimberly Barblock, at kimberly.barblock@alextech.edu — she is here to help!