Orientation and Mobility Concentration

The visual impairment/orientation and mobility programs use a cohort training model. Candidates typically are admitted one time each year. Applications are accepted year-round, and students begin their training in the first summer session of each school year. Candidates may be approved for admission out of sequence on a case-by-case basis upon review of the program faculty members. In order to be admitted to the vision impairment program, a prospective student must complete the following steps:

• Complete an Office of Research and Graduate Studies application indicating intention to pursue a graduate degree. Apply online at ApplyTexas.
• Complete the visual impairment/orientation and mobility program application, available here.
• Provide three letters of recommendation. One must be from a direct supervisor in the applicant's current position.
• Submit a three-to five-page paper distinctly describing the applicant's philosophy on education, understanding of the role of the teacher of the visually impaired or certified orientation and mobility specialist, and reasons for pursuing the field of visual impairment as a degree and/or career change.
• Applicant must have an overall GPA of 2.5 or better or a 2.50 GPA on the last 60 hours of work completed.
• GRE is not required.