Blind and Visually Impaired: Orientation and Mobility - Advanced Certificate

Program

This post-master’s, advanced certificate program is designed for certified Teachers of Students with Visual Impairments and/or Vision Rehabilitation Teachers (VRT) who have ACVREP certification to become Certified Orientation & Mobility Specialists (COMS). Graduates of this program will be eligible to obtain national certification from the Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation and Education Professionals (ACVREP) as orientation and mobility specialists (COMS). This program does not lead to additional NYS certification.

Admission Requirements

1. A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a GPA of at least 3.0, plus teacher of the blind and visually impaired teaching certificate, or occupational therapy or physical therapy.  
   
   -or- 
   
   A master’s degree from an accredited institution with a GPA of at least 3.5 in rehabilitation teaching or teacher of the blind and visually impaired or in occupational therapy or physical therapy with a GPA of at least 3.5.
2. Evidence of acceptable written languages skills.
3. Three letters of recommendation.
4. Evidence of work, volunteer or personal experience with individuals with visual impairments.
5. An interview with a special education faculty member.

International applicants who need an F-1 or J-1 Visa are not currently eligible for this program.

Progress Standards

1. Minimum GPA for Retention - Graduate students must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 to remain at Hunter College. Students whose grades fall below this standard are required to raise their GPAs to at least 3.0 within one semester.
2. No F in the first two semesters—students who receive a grade of F or WU in any course in the first two semesters will not be allowed to continue in the program.
3. Progress holds due to Incomplete Grades - Students with two or more INCs will not be allowed to register for any courses.
4. Key Course Performance Standards

   • Students must receive a grade of at least a B in key program courses. 

   • Students who receive a grade of F or WU in key program courses may not continue in the program. 

   • Key Program Courses are identified by the label (KC) in the course title.

Course of Study - 20 cr.

Academic Plan: ORMOB-AC

• COUNR 73000 - Counseling with the Aging
• SPED 74900 - Orientation and Mobility for Students with Visual Impairments and Additional Disabilities
• SPED 76500 - Intermediate Orientation and Mobility (KC)
• SPED 76600 - Advanced Orientation and Mobility
• SPED 76700 - Orientation and Mobility: Internship/Seminar (KC)
• SPED 76800 - Intermediate Orientation and Mobility: Lab and Seminar
• SPED 76900 - Advanced Orientation and Mobility Lab and Seminar

Exit Requirements

An overall GPA of 3.0