<p>This program leads to a Red Seal certification. Visit our <a href="/go/plan/trades">Trades page</a>.</p>

You can learn the science of eyeglasses, contact lenses, low vision devices, and automated refraction while gaining the professional skills needed to work as an optician in Canada.

Optician Diploma (International Cohort)

Vancouver Community College

Config for institutions using the Transcript Delivery Service

Config for institutions using the Admission Service

Config for EPBC institutions using the Program Data Delivery Service

Config for EPBC institutions using the Application File Attachments Service

Config for institutions using the EPBC REST API

1. High school graduation or equivalent
2. Knowledge of English demonstrated by one of the following:
    - English 12 (Minimum C-) or equivalent
    - Academic IELTS 6.0 (no band lower than 6.0)
    - TOEFL iBT 80
3. Math 11 (Minimum C-)


1. Upon acceptance, students will be required to submit a criminal record check (CRC)
2. Prior to first practice experience, students may be required to complete site specific orientation

1. Seats are offered to applicants who have met all admission requirements, on a first-qualified, first-served basis.
2. International applicants must be 17 years of age or older or a graduate of a secondary school. (Some exceptions may apply.)
3. Applicants must submit official transcripts and educational documents as required by their course or program.
4. All VCC applicants are required to function successfully in an English-speaking classroom. English requirements vary by program. For details, visit VCC International - English Requirements.   
5. Some recommended characteristics for people in this program are:
- Ability to listen empathetically and communicate effectively with a diverse patient population
- Good computer skills including correct typing technique and experience with the Internet, Windows, and Microsoft Office 
- A sincere interest in working with patients in a sales environment
- Ability to act respectfully, decisively, and professionally with patients and colleagues
- Good organization skills?with an attention to detail
- Good eyesight (corrected vision is accepted), with excellent hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity
- Creativity and mathematical aptitude are assets

Applications should be submitted as early as possible. Qualified applicants are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.

International students may refer to the VCC International page for details on admission deadlines.

Optician Diploma (International Cohort)

Vancouver Community College

Overview

Work experience

QUICK LINKS

FIND YOUR PATH

Explore paths

Curious where your education can lead you? Have a dream job and unsure how to get there?