Ophthalmic and Optometric Support Services and Allied Professions, Other.
Data details: Graduation rate, gender, ethnicity, and summary are for this specific degree (6-digit CIP) from IPEDS. Salary, debt, and related financial outcomes are based on the degree category (4-digit CIP) from the College Scorecard API. ← Back to search
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Debt to Income Ratio
Why Ophthalmic and Optometric Support Services and Allied Professions, Other. stands out: With a debt-to-income ratio of just 39.1%, graduates of this program typically enjoy manageable student loan payments compared to their first-year earnings. This low ratio means that, on average, students who complete Ophthalmic and Optometric Support Services and Allied Professions, Other. can expect to pay off their student debt faster and with less financial stress than most other fields. Programs with a DTI below 0.5 are considered excellent by financial experts, making this degree a smart investment for your future.
For example, with a median salary of $34427 and average student debt of $13447, the financial outlook for Ophthalmic and Optometric Support Services and Allied Professions, Other. graduates is especially strong in .
Key Insights
Wondering if Ophthalmic and Optometric Support Services and Allied Professions, Other. is right for you? This degree is designed for students who want both knowledge and practical experience. Most graduates see starting salaries near $34427, and the average student debt is $13447, with a debt-to-income ratio of 0.39—a strong position for financial independence.
With an annual graduating class of 760 students, you’ll be part of a dynamic student body. Whether you’re looking for upward mobility, a chance to innovate, or a degree that’s respected in the job market, Ophthalmic and Optometric Support Services and Allied Professions, Other. delivers. Take advantage of every resource your school offers to maximize your success!
Degree Overview
Ophthalmic and Optometric Support Services and Allied Professions, Other (CIP 51.1899) is a healthcare field dedicated to supporting eye care, vision services, and ocular health through specialized allied and technical roles. This CIP code is used for programs that do not fit into a single narrowly defined occupation, reflecting the wide range of professionals required to support optometrists and ophthalmologists in modern, technology-driven eye care environments.
For a degree search site, this program represents a practical, high-demand healthcare pathway with strong job stability and meaningful patient interaction. Vision care is essential throughout life, and demand continues to rise due to aging populations, increased screen use, chronic eye conditions, and expanded access to preventive eye care. This degree is ideal for students who want to work in healthcare without pursuing a doctoral-level optometry or medical degree.
What Is Ophthalmic and Optometric Support Services and Allied Professions?
Ophthalmic and Optometric Support Services and Allied Professions, Other refers to career-focused academic programs that prepare students to assist eye care providers in clinical, diagnostic, and administrative roles. These programs train allied professionals who perform much of the hands-on testing, imaging, patient preparation, and workflow coordination required in eye care practices.
Eye care is inherently team-based. While optometrists and ophthalmologists diagnose and treat eye conditions, support professionals ensure accurate diagnostic data, efficient clinic flow, and positive patient experiences.
This degree category typically focuses on:
- Supporting comprehensive eye examinations
- Performing vision screenings and preliminary tests
- Operating ophthalmic and optometric diagnostic equipment
- Assisting with treatment plans and corrective lenses
- Managing patient intake, education, and clinical documentation
Schools offer these programs to:
- Prepare students for allied roles in optometry and ophthalmology
- Address workforce demand in vision and eye care clinics
- Provide healthcare career access without long training timelines
- Create advancement opportunities within eye care professions
What Will You Learn?
Students learn how eye care practices function and how allied professionals contribute to accurate diagnosis, efficient treatment, and patient satisfaction. Coursework introduces the structure and function of the eye, common vision disorders, and the technologies used to assess eye health.
The curriculum blends clinical knowledge with technical skill development. Students learn how to perform pre-exam testing, assist during eye examinations, operate imaging and measurement devices, and educate patients on eyewear, contact lenses, and follow-up care. Many programs also include training in scheduling, records management, and insurance processes specific to vision care.
Hands-on learning is central to this field. Most programs include laboratory work or supervised clinical experiences where students work directly with patients and ophthalmic equipment.
Core Skills You’ll Build
Graduates of ophthalmic and optometric support programs typically develop:
- Vision screening and preliminary eye testing
- Operation of ophthalmic and optometric diagnostic equipment
- Patient intake, history collection, and education
- Assistance during eye exams and minor procedures
- Contact lens and eyewear support knowledge
- Accurate clinical documentation and recordkeeping
- Infection control and patient safety practices
- Team-based communication in healthcare settings
Topics You May Explore
Coursework varies by institution but commonly includes:
- Introduction to Ophthalmic and Optometric Care
- Ocular Anatomy and Visual Physiology
- Vision Testing and Screening Techniques
- Ophthalmic and Optometric Instrumentation
- Basic Eye Diseases and Disorders
- Contact Lenses and Eyewear Fundamentals
- Patient Communication in Eye Care Settings
- Clinical Ethics and Professional Practice
- Externship or Clinical Practicum
What Jobs Can You Get With This Degree?
Ophthalmic and Optometric Support Services and Allied Professions, Other prepares students for essential non-physician roles within eye care.
Common career paths include:
- Optometric or Ophthalmic Technician
- Eye Care or Vision Care Assistant
- Ophthalmic Diagnostic or Imaging Technician
- Contact Lens or Optical Support Specialist
- Ophthalmology or Optometry Clinic Assistant
- Patient Intake or Care Coordinator for Eye Care
Where Can You Work?
Graduates commonly work in:
- Optometry practices and vision clinics
- Ophthalmology offices and surgical eye centers
- Hospitals and outpatient medical centers
- Optical retail and vision care chains
- Academic or research eye clinics
- Public health or community vision programs
How Much Can You Earn?
Earnings vary by role, location, and experience:
- Entry-level eye care support roles often earn $38,000–$50,000
- Experienced ophthalmic or optometric technicians commonly earn $50,000–$65,000
- Specialized or supervisory allied professionals can earn $70,000–$85,000+
Is This Degree Hard?
Ophthalmic and Optometric Support Services and Allied Professions, Other is moderately demanding and highly practical. Students must learn precise technical procedures, operate specialized equipment, and interact professionally with patients. Attention to detail, reliability, and comfort in clinical settings are essential.
Who Should Consider This Degree?
This degree may be a strong fit if you:
- Want to work in healthcare without becoming a doctor
- Are interested in vision, eye health, and patient care
- Enjoy hands-on, precision-based work
- Prefer stable careers with shorter training timelines
- Want opportunities to advance within eye care professions
How to Prepare in High School and College
To prepare for ophthalmic and optometric support programs:
- Take biology, health sciences, and anatomy courses
- Develop strong attention to detail and technical skills
- Practice communication and customer service abilities
- Learn basic medical terminology and healthcare concepts
- Explore eye care careers through job shadowing or volunteering
Ophthalmic and Optometric Support Services and Allied Professions, Other (CIP 51.1899) is a vital part of modern vision care. It offers accessible entry into healthcare, strong job demand, and meaningful patient impact without the long educational commitment of doctoral programs. For students seeking a practical, people-centered healthcare career in a growing specialty, this degree provides a stable, flexible, and future-ready path into the world of eye and vision health.
Personality Fit (RIASEC Profile)
Official assessment tool by the U.S. Department of Labor