The University offers a certificate program and a Master of Science (MS) degree program in Low Vision Rehabilitation.
These programs prepare professionals in rehabilitation, eye care, education and other related fields, to work more effectively in clinical rehabilitation and educational settings with people who have low vision. Emphasis is placed on an interdisciplinary team approach to service delivery. Program participants represent disciplines such as rehabilitation counseling, vision rehabilitation therapy, special education, orientation and mobility, occupational therapy, social work, optometry and ophthalmology. This program is available online with a three (3) week summer residency program and an internship.
Both the Master of Science (MS) degree and the certificate program require didactic course work. Methods, research and foundation courses related to the eye and low vision must be taken in a prescribed manner. The program may be taken part-time or full-time. All didactic coursework must be completed prior to entry into the off-campus internship. Students, working with a faculty advisor, develop an individualized Program of Studies to ensure appropriate course sequencing and integration.
This program provides the coursework and supervised fieldwork experiences required for certification by the Academy for the Certification of Vision Rehabilitation and Education Professionals (ACVREP) in Low Vision Therapy. While fieldwork placements are generally local, internships in clinical rehabilitation and educational facilities may be located in other states.