Programs in Orientation & Mobility
The Master of Science degree in Orientation and Mobility is a full-time, fourteen month program. It typically begins in June and ends at the end of the following August, although it is possible for students to start in the Spring or Fall with the program director’s approval. It is taught mostly on-line, with additional in-person weekends and a summer residency at the College. The coursework is sequentially designed and integrated to assure that the necessary skills are developed prior to entry into fieldwork off campus. Coursework prepares students to work effectively with individuals who have low vision, as well as those who are totally blind, and across generations. Students in the O&M Program learn the importance of a team approach to problem solving and for the provision of comprehensive services. The Program provides the coursework and supervised fieldwork experiences required for certification by the Academy for the Certification of Vision Rehabilitation and Education Professionals (ACVREP).
There is a recognized national shortage of Orientation and Mobility Specialists. In response to shortages of personnel in the rehabilitation and education fields specific to vision impairment, the Department of Graduate Studies offers a Master of Science degree and Certificate program in Orientation and Mobility.
Career Opportunities
Because of the national shortage of O&M specialists, program graduates will find job opportunities working with all ages in varied settings such as rehabilitation agencies, rehabilitation centers, public and private schools, preschools, special service agencies, hospitals, clinics, homes, and extended care facilities. Excellent opportunities exist in every area of the country.
Master of Science Degree Program in Orientation and Mobility
The Master of Science degree in Orientation and Mobility is a full-time, fourteen month program. It typically begins in June and ends at the end of the following August, although it is possible for students to start in the Spring or Fall with the program director’s approval. Some courses are offered on-line while others are on-site at the College. Students learn the importance of the team approach to problem solving and comprehensive services. The coursework is sequentially designed and integrated to assure that the necessary skills are developed prior to entry into fieldwork off campus. Course work prepares students to work effectively with individuals who have low vision as well as those who are totally blind and across generations from infants to older persons. The Program provides the coursework and supervised fieldwork experiences required for certification by the Academy for the Certification of Vision Rehabilitation and Education Professionals (ACVREP). While field work placements are generally local, internships may be in other states in rehabilitation and educational facilities.
Certificate Programs in Orientation and Mobility
Starting June 12th 2006, two Certificate programs will be offered at PCO.
For individuals who have completed an academic undergraduate or graduate degree specific to educating individuals with visual impairments, the Department of Graduate Studies offers a Certificate Program in O&M (COM). The Certificate Program includes courses taught on-line, in-person on weekends and during the summers. It is offered in part-time format in consideration for the demands of working professionals. Program of studies are designed collaboratively with the program director to better meet the students’ needs.
For individuals who do not have a background in visual impairment but do have an academic undergraduate or graduate degree, the Certificate Program in O&M (Category 3) offers the above COM program with additional on-line courses to meet the required certification competencies. Upon completion of the Certificate Program in O&M (Category 3), students are eligible to sit for the ACVREP certifying exam under Category 3. This program can be completed on a full time or part time basis.
Scholarships are currently available for both programs.
In addition, PCO has offered COM programs through contracts with various states. To date, students enrolled in state programs have received full scholarships made possible by state and federal funding. States that have participated include Georgia, Indiana, Maryland, Minnesota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Tennessee, West Virginia, and rural Pennsylvania. Plans are underway to expand to other states. Completion of all certificate programs prepares participants to apply for professional certification by the Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation and Educational Professionals (ACVREP) and state O&M certification where applicable.
Course Prerequisites
Computer Literacy
The Department of Graduate Studies in Vision Impairment requires graduate students to be computer literate upon entry into their respective programs of study. All instructors expect that students know how to use a computer for word processing, power point and spreadsheets. Prior to entering the program, students who lack basic skills in using the computer for word processing should take a basic beginners computer course from a local computer education program at a community college, college/university, or a computer education service. After entering the program, students needing additional computer assistance may find help in the college’s Computer Assisted Learning Center. Master degree candidates should assess their competence in algebra and refresh their knowledge base as needed.
Access to Transportation
Due to the responsibilities required of Orientation & Mobility Specialists, specifically the need to transport students and clients to appropriate learning environments, and to travel efficiently to, from, and among students and clients, students must have access to efficient transportation and auxiliary means of transportation.
For more information contact:
Fabiana Perla, Director
Programs in Orientation & Mobility
Voice 215-780-1367 or fperla@pco.edu