Orientation and Mobility Certificate

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Orientation and Mobility Specialist (O&M)?
Orientation and Mobility (O&M) Specialists teach people who are blind or visually impaired the skills and concepts they need in order to travel independently and safely, be it in the home and classroom, or in the community and city. Some O&M specialists teach visually impaired children in school programs, others teach adults in rehabilitation settings. In addition, Orientation and Mobility Specialists are qualified to teach independent orientation and travel skills to visually impaired people with multiple disabilities; including those who have remaining functional vision as well as those who are totally blind.
What are the Employment Opportunities? What are typical salaries in New England?
Upon completion of this course of study, you will be eligible to apply for positions in both school districts and adult rehabilitation programs across the country. Students willing to travel outside the state are likely to find employment before graduation. Salaries differ from state to state. O&M Specialists may work in State Vocational Services for the Blind, Rehabilitation Units of Veterans Administration Hospitals, Programs for Elders with Visual Impairments, Private non-profit organizations, Schools (preschool, elementary, and secondary), Rehabilitation Agencies, Low vision clinics, Private practice, etc. The average beginning salary for an Orientation and Mobility Specialist in New England is roughly in the mid $40,000s.
What Financial Assistance is available?
Currently, we have federal grant monies which cover the eligible student’s tuition and registration fees for each semester (pertains to courses required for the program).
Fees which are not covered include:
  • Application Fee: $40 - $60.
  • Confirmation Fee upon acceptance $250.
  • New Student Fee during first semester $95, (total $345).
  • $150 Graduation Fee and any fees associated with MTEL, GRE, MAT.
  • Students must also obtain all texts and required resources.
What courses do I need to take? For certification? For Masters?
The individualized course of study is determined after an individual advisement meeting with the Program Coordinator and/or Program Director.
Is there a thesis or exit exam requirement? Will I be certified?
There is no thesis requirement; however, students are required to take the Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation and Education Professionals (ACVREP) exam. Once this exam is passed, the person is internationally certified in Orientation and Mobility.
Do I need to come to Boston? Are all the courses on-line?
The majority (approximately 90%) of the coursework is delivered through an online platform. Approximately half-way through the program, a Methods lab is required. This lab begins in July and requires the student to devote 1 day per week in a face to face class (delivered via cohorts in the student’s region). Later in the program, pre-practicum hours are required which are generally in the student’s region as well.
How much time does it take to complete the program?
Most students are working and generally take 2 years to complete the program.
Are there any trips to dog guide schools?
There are 2 trips to dog guide schools: The Seeing Eye, Morristown, NJ (November) and Guiding Eyes for the Blind, White Plains, NY (May). The dog guide schools pay for the trips (except for incidentals).