Ophthalmic and Optometric Support Services and Allied Professions at American Career College-Los Angeles
a compact campus enrolling 2,066 students in Los Angeles, CA.
Program Analysis
At $27,698 per year, Ophthalmic and Optometric Support Services and Allied Professions graduates from American Career College-Los Angeles earn below the $35,459 national average. Lower costs or geographic factors may offset the earnings gap.
Some AI exposure exists in Ophthalmic and Optometric Support Services and Allied Professions's career paths, with 31% of job tasks potentially affected. The pessimistic scenario still projects solid returns, with a 16% gap from the optimistic case.
The median debt load of $9,500 represents less than half a year of starting salary — among the lightest debt-to-income ratios in vocational education.
Ranked #10 of 17 Ophthalmic and Optometric Support Services and Allied Professions programs, American Career College-Los Angeles falls below the median. Stronger options exist, though cost and location may compensate.
Earnings grow from $27,698 to $33,331 over five years — a 20% increase that's moderate and in line with typical trade career progression.
There are 2 registered apprenticeship pathways mapped to Ophthalmic and Optometric Support Services and Allied Professions, including Ophthalmic Dispen Opt/Contact Lens (median $46,560/yr). Apprenticeships offer an alternative route that combines paid work with structured training.
Earnings Overview
Projected 10-Year Earnings
Based on actual graduate salary data and Bureau of Labor Statistics growth projections.
Top Career Paths
Top career paths for Ophthalmic and Optometric Support Services and Allied Professions graduates by median salary.
| Career Path | Median Salary | Growth | AI-ProofAI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Opticians, dispensing | $46,560 | +2.9% | 71% |
| Ophthalmic medical technicians | $44,080 | +19.8% | 67% |
About Ophthalmic and Optometric Support Services and Allied Professions Careers
Your career in eye care will place you in one of two key settings. As an ophthalmic medical technician, you’ll work in a fast-paced clinic, directly assisting an ophthalmologist. Your day will involve using diagnostic tools like tonometers to check eye pressure, conducting vision tests, and preparing patients for exams. Alternatively, as a dispensing optician, you’ll be in a retail environment, helping customers find the perfect frames and lenses. You'll use a lensometer to verify prescriptions and make precise, hands-on adjustments for a comfortable fit.
Read the full Ophthalmic and Optometric Support Services and Allied Professions career guide →