As a self-regulating profession, the NSCDO is governed by a Board of Directors comprised of elected and appointed members. Of the eight board members, five are elected from the profession and three are appointed by government.

In order that the public interest may be served and protected, the objects of the College are to:

• Regulate the practice of optical dispensing through registration, licensing and the establishment of a professional conduct process in accordance with this Act and the regulations;
• Establish, maintain and develop standards of professional practice among its members;
• Establish, maintain and develop standards of professional ethics and a code of conduct for its members

Meetings of the Board of the College are open to the public and provide a forum for discussion of a wide range of issues affecting the governing of the profession.