Program Overview

Program Information

The Ophthalmic Medical Technology (OMT) program is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work in the field of ophthalmic medicine. As the diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases steadily grows in complexity, the demand for healthcare workers with specialized knowledge and skills in ophthalmic medical technology is growing as well.

What will I learn during my studies?

• Patient care
• Medical knowledge (General and Ocular Anatomy, Physiology, Visual Testing, Pharmacology)
• Professionalism, interpersonal and communication skills
• Technical and scientific skills
• Community and health services

What can I do with my degree?

After successful completion of the program, students are eligible to sit for the certification exams given by the International Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology. Graduates from the OMT program are sought after across the country and internationally. Most graduates are working as Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologists in hospitals or private clinics. Other graduates of the OMT program have careers as clinical research coordinators. Many graduates have gone on to do optometry, and several others have gone on to medical school.

Admission Requirements

• Ophthalmic medical technologists require completion of a two-year hospital-based training program in ophthalmic medical technology, or a 4-year bachelors degree program in Ophthalmic Medical Technology and completion of 1500 clinical hours.
• Certification by the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology may be required by employers.

Course Sequence

The course sequence offers a clear and detailed overview of the academic path, year by year, toward becoming an ophthalmic medical technologist.

Admission Process

All applications to the OMT program must be done through the Ontario University Application Centre. The admission process begins from mid-October to the beginning of February. The OMT program also has interviews, which are part of the admission process. These typically occur at the beginning of April. The admission offers are sent at the end of April.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply to the OMT program?

All applications to the OMT program must be done through the Ontario University Application Centre.

How long does the admission evaluation take?

The admission process begins from mid-October to the beginning of February. The admission offers are sent at the end of April.

What is the deadline to apply and submit documents?

The deadline to apply is at the beginning of February, and the deadline to submit all documents is the last week of February.

How do I find the status of my application?

You can find the status of your application in your student account.

How do I upload my documents?

All documents must be uploaded in your student account.

Do I have to submit a transcript as a uOttawa student?

No, if your most recent studies are at the University of Ottawa, you are not required to upload a copy of your transcript.

Can I be admitted if I am missing a prerequisite course?

Yes, it is possible to get admitted even if you are missing a prerequisite course. However, the admission process is never guaranteed and will depend on numerous factors.

What is the interview process in OMT?

The interviews are an important part of the admission process. The goal of the interview is to get to better know the candidates and to determine if the OMT program is the right fit for them based on certain criteria.

Placement Requirements

Before you can do rotations in clinical settings, you must ensure that you meet the following requirements:

• Immunization: Your baseline immunization status must be kept up to date.
• Criminal record check: You must provide a criminal record check.

Graduation Process

If you are eligible to graduate, you will receive an invitation email from the Registrar. Once you receive this email, you will be able to apply for the upcoming convocation.