Opticianry - A One of Its Kind Program in Massachusetts
Opticianry - A One of Its Kind Program in Massachusetts
Posted on 10/25/2023
Franklin Cummings Tech (FCT) is the only college in Massachusetts that offers an Opticianry program. This optician training program is also one of the few associate degree health care programs in the state that does not require students to complete prerequisite college courses or pass an assessment exam to qualify for admission. The two-year program emphasizes hands-on learning and prepares students for state licensure as opticians. Students looking for a career that combines an interest in fashion and the helping professions may want to explore this option.
About Opticians
Have you ever been to a store that sells eyeglass frames? If so, then you’ve probably seen an optician at work. Opticians fit and dispense eyeglasses and contact lenses. They may also perform minor repairs on eyeglasses. Using fashion design skills, they help customers select frames that complement their facial features and personal styles. Opticianry is a growing profession in Massachusetts with above-average pay. Optician jobs are projected to grow by 16% over the next 10 years. The median salary for opticians in Massachusetts was $59,490 in 2022, about $1,000 higher than the statewide median salary for all jobs (BLS).
Franklin Cummings Tech’s Program: Strong Job Outcomes at an Affordable Cost
This program partners with the Opticianry Association of Massachusetts, resulting in both strong job outcomes and paid work-based learning opportunities. The median salary of 2022 program graduates was $57,500 one year after graduation. Program graduates land jobs with companies including Atrius Health, Nassau Optical, National Academy of Opticianry, New England Eye Co., and Warby Parker. Over 90% of program graduates pass their licensing exams on the first try, compared to the national average of just over 50%.
The program’s partnership with the Opticianry Association of Massachusetts also gives students the opportunity to obtain three-month externships and paid co-op placements. Students in good standing in the program can get paid co-op jobs, where they work part-time in medical offices, optical boutiques, and optical chains while they obtain their degree. These co-op jobs pay well, offer significant raises upon completion of coursework and licenses, and in some cases offer tuition reimbursement of up to $10,000, making the opticianry program even more affordable.
FCT has several grant programs available to help students to cover program costs including limited funds to support free tuition to Boston residents through the city’s Tuition-Free Community College plan. FCT is the one private 2-year college participating in the plan.
Interested in Applying?
FCT reviews applications for the opticianry program on a rolling basis, so students should apply early to secure a seat. Applicants need four years of high school English, at least three years of mathematics, and at least one course in science to qualify for admission. Students accepted into the program typically have a high school GPA of 2.5 or higher.
Learn more about this specific program in our Navigator directory.
Notes on Data Sources
Employment and Average Wages: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2022 Occupational and Employment Statistics for Massachusetts (https://www.bls.gov/oes/tables.htm).