Portland Community College | Portland, Oregon Portland Community College

Program overview

See our frequently asked questions and program costs for more information.

If you’re admitted, you’ll begin in the fall quarter and become part of a cohort (a group of students who take classes together). You’ll attend full-time during the day for two academic years.

The OMT program courses cover:

  • Medical histories
  • Ophthalmic terminology
  • Ocular anatomy
  • Diseases
  • Pharmacology
  • Fundamental ocular optics

Hands-on skills are taught in the OMT lab on:

  • Diagnostic tests
  • Refractometry
  • Tonometry
  • Lensometry
  • Biometry
  • Ophthalmic scribing
  • Ocular imaging
  • Minor equipment maintenance
  • Surgical assisting
  • Functional ocular measurements and tests

Before graduation from the program, you’ll be eligible to test for international certification as a Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT).

Internationally recognized certification

The OMT two-year program offers an Associate of Applied Science in Ophthalmic Medical Technology. Before completion of the program, you’ll be eligible to take the written portion for certification through the International Joint Commission Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology at the level of a certified ophthalmic technician (COT).

Becoming a certified ophthalmic technician (COT) gives you a competitive edge in a field where employers are actively seeking credentialed candidates. Since 2010, 100% of our students have passed their written COT certification exam.

Regulations

While in the program, you must:

  • Complete a criminal background check before clinical rotation placement (see below).
  • Pass a urine screening before participating in clinical rotations.
  • Complete and maintain required vaccinations.
  • Maintain a minimum “C” average letter grade and complete all coursework designated within the program.
  • Pass all OMT program course finals with a 70% or better.
  • Have transportation to practicum facilities throughout the Portland Metropolitan area and surrounding communities.

Only those students who have been officially admitted to the OMT program may enroll in OMT courses. Professionals in the field may be admitted on a space-available basis.

To advance from term to term, you must complete all of the previous term’s course work by receiving at least a “Pass” or “C.” For example, all courses listed for the first term must be completed before you begin the second term.

Criminal background check

All PCC students enrolled in a health care program, including Ophthalmic Medical Technology, with requirements for practical experience or field training may have to pass Criminal History Checks (CHC) as a condition of their acceptance into a medical or other facility for training.

Students who do not pass the CHC may not be eligible to complete training at affiliated practicum sites, to sit for licensure or certification exams, or to be hired for some professional positions. If you believe that your history may interfere with your ability to complete the program of study or to obtain licensure or certification in your chosen field, you should contact the appropriate state board or the program director.