By Mira Radovich, Senior Contributing Writer
Optical technologies are everywhere—integral to medical systems, cameras, virtual reality headsets, and biometric tools like facial recognition and fingerprint scanning. Many industries need professionals skilled in optical technologies, and Rio Salado College is here to help meet the demand.
Launching in January 2025, Rio Salado’s Precision Optics Level 1 microcredential pathway can introduce students to this growing career field.
What is a Microcredential?
A microcredential is a short-term, focused educational program that allows students to gain specific skills and knowledge in a particular field or industry. Programs are designed to be flexible, affordable, and accessible, making them an ideal option for students seeking to upskill or reskill.
Benefits of the Precision Optics Microcredential
Because the program only consists of two courses, students can finish the microcredential in one semester. With Rio Salado’s convenient Monday start dates, students can begin the pathway without having to wait for a traditional semester start date.
What are the Program Courses?
The Precision Optics Level 1 microcredential pathway consists of two courses, which are available now:
- Precision Optics and Mathematical Concepts (3 credits): Learn the foundational skills needed for careers in optical technology.
- Critical Thinking Durable Skills (Non-credit, free): Develop essential problem-solving and analytical skills for the workplace.
What comes next?
Upon completing the pathway, students can earn two open digital badges to showcase their expertise. Open badges are issued to individuals for learning or displaying skills or knowledge, or successfully undertaking a specific task or activity.
Students can take the knowledge learned from the microcredential courses and enter the optical technology workforce with valuable skills.
For more career options, students can continue their education with Level 2 training, or even stack their credentials toward a certificate or degree program.
Learn more about the Precision Optics Level 1 microcredential pathway.