About IADO
How to Become a Dispensing Optician

Introduction

Dispensing Opticians supply, fit and sell spectacles and contact lenses and low visual aids to a prescription provided by an optometrist (ophthalmic optician) and Ophthalmologist. They do not perform eye tests, but give advice to clients on the best type of glasses for their particular need.


Entry Routes and Training

Ireland

DT219 Bsc Ophthalmic Dispensing course in DIT

The is a three year, level 7, degree programme which consist of 2 years full time followed by a pre-registration period.

For entry requirements for students are as follows:

Minimum Leaving Certificate:
Minimum number of subjects 5, Maths or Applied Maths OC1, English/Irish OD1, One science subject OC3, from Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Agricultural Science, Engineering, Physics and Chemistry or Home Economics.

FETAC:
FETAC CASLT Applied Science – Laboratory Techniques; FETAC CASFX Food science with 5 distinctions, 4 distinctions from Biology, Anatomy and Physiology, Physics,
Microbiology, Nutrition, Statistics, Chemistry, Including a Distinction in C20139 Mathematics or Leaving Certificate Mathematics OC1.


Studying Abroad

There is an option to study Ophthalmic Dispensing either as a full time or part time student in either London, Bradford, Cambridge. For more information see the GOC website on the Section The UK route to registration as a dispensing Optician. On completion of either of these courses and registration with the GOC, DO's can then register with CORU to work in Ireland.


Personal Qualities and Skills

You need to enjoy working with people from all backgrounds and be able to communicate sensitively with them. You also need a scientific, methodical approach to your work. You should be willing to promote sales to customers and be able to develop administrative and managerial skills.


Opportunities

• Dispensing opticians work a basic 39-hour week. Saturday work and some late finishes may be required.
• Employers throughout the country include hospital eye clinics, dispensing opticians' practices, prescription houses, frame and lens manufacturers, ophthalmic instrument manufacturers and suppliers.
• Dispensing opticians may also work as sales representatives, or become self-employed in their own practice.