Orientation and Mobility for Individuals with Visual Impairments and Blindness Certificate

Return to: School of Education

The program in Orientation and Mobility Specialist program (O&M) provides training to become an O&M practitioner for individuals of all ages and abilities. The program prepares students to earn certification as a Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist (COMS), which is a gateway to a diverse range of employment opportunities. The program is offered in a hybrid format, with most courses online and a limited number of weekend workshops in person. TLL 2750 and 2752 are in-person, on-campus offered during the summer term. Students also complete a clinical experience of at least 350 hours. Pitt offers the O&M Graduate Certificate (26 credits), with the option to add on a Master’s Degree in Education for an additional six credits (32 credits total).

Accreditations Associated

This program is fully accredited by the Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired (AER). 

Admissions Requirements

• Bachelors degree in any subject with minimum 3.0 GPA
• Prerequisite Coursework (can be taken as co-requisites during program)

  • Foundations of Special Education

Student Teaching

Pennsylvania Department of Education requires that all students must enter a teacher education program with and maintain an overall 3.0 GPA. If a student does not maintain a 3.0 GPA, they will be prohibited from student teaching or earning certification. 

Graduation Requirements

• Minimum 3.0 GPA
• Successful completion of the O&M Internship
• Completion of all coursework with a grade of B- or higher