Certified Ophthalmic Technician Program

The Emory Department of Ophthalmology is offering a new, Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT) Program for advanced ophthalmic training at the technician level.

The Emory COT Program is based at the world-renowned Emory Eye Center in Atlanta, Georgia — ranked one of America’s “ten best” in U.S. News & World Report and Ophthalmology Times magazines.  For over 35 years, Emory Eye Center's educational programs have been giving ophthalmic medical personnel the training, knowledge and confidence they need for professional success.

What is A Certified Ophthalmic Technician?

A certified ophthalmic technician assists ophthalmologists (eye doctors) with patient care.  Their duties may include taking patients' medical histories; providing contact lens education; administering eye medications; instructing patients on medication use; conducting vision and diagnostic tests; assisting ophthalmologists with procedures; maintaining optical equipment; supervising and training other ophthalmology assistants; and performing administrative duties.

In this growing health care specialty, ophthalmic technicians are employed by private practices, multi- specialty clinics, universities, hospitals, VA/Military, HMOs and in corporate/ industry settings. 

In a 2007 survey of salary and benefits conducted by the Association of Technical Personnel in Ophthalmology, Inc., certification was found to be highly valued by employers. Average hourly wages for COTs in the United States varied depending on region and population size, ranging from an average of $17/hr. (population 10,000-49,999 in the South Central states) to $24.63/hr. (population 2,500,000+ in Western states).

In addition, non-monetary benefits for technicians included paid vacations and holidays (94%) and health insurance (92%).

COT Program Training Overview

The Certified Ophthalmic Technician program is designed to meet the professional needs of graduates and their employers. Students gain comprehensive knowledge in clinical ophthalmology through rotations in each of the subspecialties of ophthalmology including pediatrics, cornea, glaucoma, neuro-ophthalmology, retina and oculoplastics. 

Students enroll for 18 months of full-time instruction.  Registration and orientation week begins August 21st.  Enrollment is limited to 10 students per class. After successful completion of the program, graduates will be qualified to take the certified ophthalmic technician national board certification exams through the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO).

Students receive a wide range of clinical experience while training in Atlanta ophthalmology and hospital clinics staffed by Emory Eye Center's eminent faculty.

Tuition for the full program is $7,500.  Students are responsible for the costs of books, housing, transportation, food, medical insurance and living expenses.

Training Program Includes:

Application

Application deadline is June 15th.  To apply, download and complete the application form (below). In order for your application to be considered, it must be supported by the following: (1) An attached (non-refundable) application fee of $50.00 made payable to "Emory University" (check or money order); (2) an official transcript mailed by the registrar of each high school, college or university you have attended, sent directly to the address below; (3) letters of recommendation as required; a (4) personal statement; (5) your signature on the application form. 

APPLICATION FORM (pdf)

Mail to:
Ophthalmic Technology Program
Emory Eye Center
2nd Floor, 1365-B Clifton Road
Atlanta GA 30322