Candidates for the MEd in vision studies teacher licensure will be provided with a sequence of course work, field-based experiences, and practica to fulfill eligibility requirements as prescribed by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), or Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation and Education Professionals (ACVREP).
Successful completion of the capstone experience (a practicum and capstone portfolio) is a requirement for all master’s candidates. This capstone experience is fulfilled within the practicum in vision impairment for all three of our tracks.
Non-matriculated students may enroll in a maximum of 2 courses in this program with the approval of the department. These courses can be transferred into matriculated study after admission. The program faculty will advise each matriculated student about the appropriate program of study leading to licensure and/or certification under state/national regulations.
Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments (TVI)
Students in the TVI track of the Vision Studies Program are required to submit a capstone portfolio of completed graduate work as outlined upon acceptance into the program.
TVI candidates complete a 37-credit track. The program consists of sequenced coursework, field-based experiences, and practica aligned with the Massachusetts DESE for initial licensure.
Orientation and Mobility (O&M)
Students in the O&M track may pursue the master's or the certificate. Candidates for the certificate in orientation and mobility progress through a sequence of course work, field-based experiences, and practica to fulfill eligibility requirements as prescribed by the Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired (AERBVI) and ACVREP.
Master's candidates also submit a capstone portfolio during the practicum semester.
The master's degree requires 37 credits. The total credits required for the certificate will vary, depending on the candidate’s background and related course work.
Vision Rehabilitation Therapists (VRT)
Students in the VRT track may complete the master's or the certificate. Candidates progress through a sequence of coursework, field-based experiences, and practica to fulfill eligibility requirements as prescribed by ACVREP.
Master's candidates also submit a capstone portfolio during the practicum semester.
The master's degree requires 37 credits. The total credits required for the certificate will vary, depending on the candidate's background and related course work.
Assistive Technology (AT)
Students in the AT track may complete the master's or one of two certificates. Candidates progress through a sequence of coursework, field-based experiences, and practica to fulfill eligibility requirements as prescribed by ACVREP.
Master's candidates also submit a capstone portfolio during the practicum semester.
The master's degree requires 37 credits. The total credits required for the certificate will be either 5 or 8 credits, depending on the candidate's background and related course work.
Please see www.nercve.org for more details on these degree requirements.