Ophthalmic & Optometric Services at National Career Education

Citrus Heights, CA · Private for-profit · Certificate · Ophthalmic and Optometric Support Services and Allied Professions

with a smaller student body of 438 in Citrus Heights, CA.

Program Analysis

National Career Education's Ophthalmic & Optometric Services graduates start at $28,648/yr, trailing the $35,459 national average by 19%. The program's value hinges on affordability.

AI risk is moderate — 31% task exposure — and the 1% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook for Ophthalmic & Optometric Services graduates.

At #12 out of 17 programs, National Career Education's financial outcomes for Ophthalmic & Optometric Services trail the majority of peers. The value case depends on other factors.

Ophthalmic & Optometric Services connects to 2 apprenticeship options. The earn-while-you-learn model can be a strong alternative or complement to a certificate program.

42 /100
TradeSchoolOutlook Score
38
Low End
42
Score
43
High End
Earnings $28,648/yr (-19% vs median)
AI-Proof Resilient (69% shielded)
Job Market Medium (19,300 openings/yr)

Earnings Overview

Projected 10-Year Earnings
$302K
1.1% annual growth
Viable Career Paths
2 of 2
Occupations with strong AI resilience

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 & Optometric Services 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%
Opticians, dispensing
$46,560
+2.9% growth 71% AI-proof
Ophthalmic medical technicians
$44,080
+19.8% growth 67% AI-proof

Ophthalmic & Optometric Services Career Guide

See the full career breakdown for Ophthalmic & Optometric Services — job titles, salary ranges, and growth projections for graduates from National Career Education and 16 other schools.

Read the full Ophthalmic & Optometric Services career guide →

Compare & Explore

Ophthalmic & Optometric Services Overview

Ophthalmic & Optometric Services at Other Schools

Other Majors at National Career Education

Frequently Asked Questions

How does National Career Education's Ophthalmic & Optometric Services program score?
At 42/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Ophthalmic & Optometric Services programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Can you still earn well with Ophthalmic & Optometric Services from National Career Education?
Starting salary is one data point. If National Career Education's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.
What apprenticeship pathways exist for Ophthalmic & Optometric Services graduates?
The DOL recognizes 2 apprenticeship pathways related to Ophthalmic & Optometric Services. For students weighing National Career Education's program cost against alternatives, apprenticeships offer zero-tuition entry with paid employment from day one.
Data from College Scorecard, BLS, and AI resilience research. Methodology & sources →