After Graduation

Upon graduation from the Ophthalmic Medical Personnel Training Program (OMPTP), students are immediately eligible for employment with individual and group ophthalmology practices.

Students who graduate from our non-clinical assistant accredited training programs must meet the clinical requirements for work experience before applying for the certification. Certification is governed by the International Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology, Inc. (IJCAHPO). 

IJCAHPO uses written exams and skill assessments to certify allied ophthalmic personnel at one of three core levels. For current national certification information and requirements contact IJCAHPO.

IJCAHPO’s three core levels of certification offer a progressive career ladder for ophthalmic medical personnel who seek growth in their profession:

1. Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA®) (Entry Level) 
2. Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT®) (Intermediate Level) 
3. Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT®) (Advanced Level)