Opticianry Science - Frequently Asked Questions

Program

Is the Optician - Vision Care Program accredited?
No. Currently, there is no accreditation for 1 year technical diploma programs in opticianry science.

What is the length of the Optician - Vision Care program?
The length of this program is 2 semesters.

Is the Optician - Vision Care program a day or evening program?
Overall, the classes meet during the day. There are some required general education courses that are available in the evenings and on weekends.

What is the cost of the program?
Click on the link below to see the current tuition rates.
http://matc.edu/student/newstudent/fees.html

Is financial aid available for the program?
Yes. Click on the link below to review financial aid availability.
Contact 414-279-6908 for additional information.
http://matc.edu/student/resources/FinancialAid/finaid.html

Are there scholarships available for the program?
Yes. Click on the link below to search for Health Occupations Scholarships.
http://matc.edu/student/resources/FinancialAid/scholarships.html

Can prerequisites be completed at a school other than MATC?
Yes. General education courses that match those in the program will be considered for transfer. Admission counselors are available to evaluate transcripts from other schools. Click on the link below to be directed to an admission counselor.
http://matc.edu/student/currentstudent/credittransfer/credittransfermain.html

Are the Optician - Vision Care program courses transferable to another college or university?
Click on the link below to view a list of colleges that transfer degree credits toward a bachelor or higher degree.
http://matc.edu/student/currentstudent/credittransfer/xfrprogram.html

Can I choose where I do my clinical rotation?
No. The faculty within your program will select your clinical site.

Can I work during the program?
Yes, you may work while you are in the program. However, you should keep in mind that you should plan to spend about 3 hours per credit hour of class per week in preparation. So, if you take a 3 credit course, you’ll want to set aside approximately 9 hours of study time.
Application

Application

Is there a student advisor?
Yes. If you are NOT currently admitted to MATC you should call 414-297-MATC or visit http://www.matc.edu/student/newstudent/Admissions.html
If you ARE currently admitted to MATC you should call 414-297-6596.

Is there a separate application process for the Optician - Vision Care program than for admission to MATC?
Yes, You must petition to enter the program. If you plan to petition for entry into the program you should begin working on completing the essential functions form and have seen a program counselor prior to submitting your petition application.
Click here to obtain the forms necessary to begin the petition process:
http://www.matc.edu/student/offerings/Health_Programs_FAQs/petition_forms/optician_packet.pdf

Click here to see how to make an appointment to see a program counselor.

When can I apply for admission to the Opticianry Science program?
You may apply at any time. However, the start date(s) for this program may be different from the time that you apply. Click on the link below to view the start date(s) for this program.
http://matc.edu/student/offerings/optician.html

Do I need to complete any health forms?
No.

Do I need a criminal background check?
No, A criminal background check is not required.

Are there prerequisite classes that I must take before I can apply?
No.

Are there any tests that I must take before I am admitted?
Possibly. Click on the link below to review the criteria for preadmission testing.
http://matc.edu/student/newstudent/Admissions_StepThree.html

How do I apply?
Submit an application with a $30 one-time only admission fee and an additional $15 fee for criminal background check. Click on the link below to review the application procedure.
http://matc.edu/student/newstudent/admissions.html

Is there an orientation meeting for prospective students?
Yes. The MATC Orientation is mandatory. Click on the link below to review how to complete the MATC orientation session. Other program specific orientations may be offered.
Click here to see how to make an appointment to see a program counselor.

Graduation

Are there jobs available?
Yes. Click on the link below to review the latest employment rate for graduates of this program.
MATC Graduate Report

What are the current salary levels?
Click on the link below to review the latest salary level(s) for this occupation.
http://matc.edu/student/resources/JOBshop/WagesAndSalaries.html

Are graduates required to pass a state certification?
No.

What resources are available for job placement?
http://matc.edu/student/resources/Jobs.html

How can I learn more about Optician - Vision Care
http://www.visionchannel.net/optician.shtml

Updated 1/19/11