The CEENTA–Central Piedmont Ophthalmic Apprenticeship Program

A Hands-On Path to a Career in Eye Care

Are you interested in becoming an Ophthalmic Assistant? Whether you're starting fresh or making a career change, the CEENTA-Central Piedmont Apprenticeship Program offers a 6-month, earn-while-you-learn path into eye care.

In partnership with Central Piedmont's Ophthalmic Medical Personnel program, this apprenticeship combines classroom learning and paid clinical work to prepare you for a career in ophthalmology or optometry support.

APPLICATIONS OPEN SUMMER 2026

Program Overview: A Three-Phase Journey to a Certified Career

Phase 1 – Foundational Learning

Location: Central Piedmont Central Campus

• Learn medical terminology, ophthalmic science, and clinical techniques
• Train in state-of-the-art labs and a 15,000 sq. ft. simulation center
• Instruction by nationally accredited healthcare faculty

Phase 2 – Classroom + Clinical Integration

Split your time between:

• Ophthalmic Medical Personnel program coursework, building advanced skills
• On-site experience at CEENTA clinics, shadowing professionals, and learning patient care

Phase 3 – Full Clinical Immersion

• Complete your rotational clinical training at CEENTA locations
• Supplement your experience with online training in the OMP program
• Work side-by-side with experienced physicians and technicians
• Receive hourly pay and gain hands-on experience across multiple specialties

Clinical Specialties You'll Explore

• General Ophthalmology
• Cornea
• Glaucoma
• Neuro-Ophthalmology
• Oculoplastics
• Pediatrics
• Retina

What Happens After the Program?

• You’ll be prepared to take the Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) exam
• Guaranteed job offer at CEENTA upon successful program completion
• Program requires a two-year employment commitment as a full-time Ophthalmic Assistant

Program Benefits

• Earn While You Learn: Get paid during the clinical phase
• Real-World Experience: Work with advanced equipment and real patients
• Education Support: CEENTA covers tuition and exam prep
• Mentorship: Learn from award-winning eye care professionals
• Career Launchpad: Entry into roles such as:
  • Ophthalmic Assistant or
  • Optometric Technician

Who Should Apply?

This program is ideal for:

• Recent high school or college graduates
• Career changers looking for a fast, affordable way into healthcare
• Anyone interested in exploring the eye care field without long-term student debt

How to Apply

APPLICATIONS OPEN SUMMER 2026

Once you're selected through CEENTA's interview process, your spot at Central Piedmont is guaranteed.