Online Optometry Courses

The field of optometry is geared toward continued or improved eye health. Learn about what optometry courses are offered online and what you can expect from an online class.

What Types of Optometry Courses Are Available Online?

Many online optometry courses deal with eye health or fitting, adjusting and using glasses and contact lenses. You might take courses about common diseases that affect eyes and the possible solutions for these problems. Some courses cover examining patients of different ages, including infants and children. Other topics of study include:

Glaucoma Management

Students in this course can learn about glaucoma treatment goals. Medication selection and implementation would be explored.

Neuroimaging

This course can explore neuroimaging techniques in eye care. Students may look at the electromagnetic spectrum, UV radiation, symptoms of digital eye strain and the link between blue light and age-related macular degeneration.

Prescribed Drugs

This course teaches students about the most commonly prescribed drugs and their relevance in eye care. The aspects of writing a prescription and information about controlled substances can also be addressed.

Human Research Subjects

Ethics and regulatory elements that govern human subjects research would be the topics in this sort of class. Personal responsibilities as optometry professionals, including time management techniques and communication skills, can also be studied.

Clinical Research and Personal Development

In this course, students might learn how to design an effective presentation within vision science and vision-related care. Professional values can be emphasized, in addition to trends and challenges in this profession.

At What Level Are Optometry Courses Available?

Online optometry courses are mainly available for those interested in earning state-mandated continuing education credits. Typically, these are refresher courses that provide information about new options and technologies in the field, such as newly developed contact lenses or advancements in eye surgery. Most of these are available as individual courses, so you can pick and choose the ones that best meet your needs. Additionally, online optometric technical diploma programs may also be available for those who are already working in an eye care office.

How Do Online Courses Work?

Online courses in optometry are flexible and self-paced, so you can complete them whenever you have the time. Typically delivered through webinars, when the courses are finished you might take exams through a secure online format, which could lead to a continuing education or course certificate. These courses don't all include assigned exercises for the individual lectures or courses, although you may be required to complete certain readings.