Paraoptometrics are a valuable part of healthcare teams. Paraoptometrics who have the Paraoptometric Career Studies Certificate can generally expect to have more job opportunities. Program graduates will also have better pay available to them. The CPO certification is the first step to achieving several other certifications. These additional certifications can be obtained by working with an optometrist.
If you already work in an optometry office the certificate will prepare you for the AOA (American Optometric Association) Certified Paraoptometric (CPO) exam.
A CPO is a person who has attained national recognition via certification by demonstrating an understanding of the concepts used in optometric care
If this is a new career or a change in career, the certificate will provide an understanding of optometric principles and knowledge of instrumentation, anatomy, optics, basic pharmacology and aspects of practice management for employment in an optometrist’s office, which is needed for the CPO exam.
Please contact Bill Taylor at bill.taylor@sw.edu for information. The program is offered in 2 semesters through online coursework with lab one Saturday a month on campus.
Annual income will vary greatly depending on the size, type, and location of the practice in which you are employed.
All Southwest locations are closed on Friday, November 22, due to inclement weather.