Academics

Degree Requirements

Candidates for the M.Ed 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 or Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation and Education Professionals.

As part of the coursework contained in the M.Ed. program, 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 TVI, O&M, or VRT within Vision Studies.

Non-matriculated students may enroll in a maximum of two (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.

Candidates for the Masters of Vision Studeies- Teachers of Students with Visual Impairment (TVI) complete a 37-credit track.  The program consists of sequenced coursework, field-based experiences and practica aligned with the Massachusetts DESE for initial licensure.

Please see www.nercve.org for more detail.

Orientation and Mobility (O&M)

Students in the O&M track of the Vision Studies program may pursure the masters or the certificate. Candidates for 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 the Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation and Education Professionals (ACVREP). Masters candidates also submit a capstone portfolio during the practicum semester.  The Masters degree requires 37 credits.  The total credits required for the certificate will vary, depending on the candidate’s background and related course work.

Please see www.nercve.org for more details.

Vision Rehabilitation Therapist (VRT)

Student in the VRT track of Vision Studies may complete the Masters or the Certificate. Candidates in Vision Rehabilitation Therapy progress through a sequence of coursework, filed-based experiences, and practica to fulfill eligibility requirements as prescribed by the Association for Education and Rehabilitation and Education Professionals (ACVREP). Masters candidates also submit a capstone portfolio during the practicum semester. The Masters degree requires 37 credits. The total credits required for the certificate will vary, depending on the candidate's background and related course work.

Please see www.nercve.org for more details.