The American Orthoptic Council® was founded in 1935 with the main purpose of establishing standards for orthoptists in the United States. Besides examining and certifying individual orthoptists, the AOC® is also responsible for setting and monitoring standards for the education of orthoptists, and reviews and grants accreditation to orthoptic programs in the United States. It approves, encourages and promotes continuing education courses, workshops and symposia which are required of Orthoptists to maintain their certification. We work with representatives from sponsoring organizations to promote the recognition of the AOC®.