Master's Degree in Orientation and Mobility
OVERVIEW
Who is this program for?
The Master's degree in Orientation and Mobility is ideal for individuals passionate about helping people with visual impairments achieve independence through specialized navigation training. Graduates typically pursue careers as orientation and mobility specialists, working in schools, rehabilitation centers, or with organizations that support individuals with disabilities.
Program Overview
The Master’s in Orientation and Mobility prepares professionals to teach individuals who are blind or visually impaired how to navigate safely and independently in a variety of environments. Through specialized coursework and hands-on training, students learn to assess mobility needs, develop individualized travel instruction plans, and incorporate the use of mobility aids and assistive technology. Graduates are qualified to work in schools, rehabilitation centers, and community organizations, empowering individuals with visual impairments to lead more independent and confident lives.
The graduate program addresses a critical shortage of qualified O&M specialists throughout Kentucky and nationally. Designed to be flexible and responsive to your learning needs, our hybrid, part-time program offers evening courses online and select face-to-face courses on the weekends with one intensive face-to-face summer course.
The Master of Arts Program in Orientation and Mobility program is approved by the Kentucky Education Professional Standards Board and the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE). The curriculum for this program is aligned to ACVREP standards and competency requirements and is currently pursuing AER accreditation.
Our Accreditation
This program is accredited by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP), recognizing our commitment to high standards in teacher preparation. This accreditation assures prospective students that our program meets rigorous benchmarks for quality, continuous improvement, and positive impact in the field of education.
Related Careers
Professionals in O&M are often employed in school districts, rehabilitation agencies, and Veterans Administration (VA) Hospitals.
Admission Requirements
Please view the Graduate School's Admission Requirements. If there are Program Specific Requirements listed below, those will also apply.
Application Requirements
Please view the application requirements for the Graduate School. If there are Program Specific Requirements listed below, those will also apply.
Application Deadlines
Domestic Students
-
Fall
- 07/25/2025
International Students
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Fall
- 04/15/2025
FIND OUT EXACTLY
What You'll Learn
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
Explore Funding Options
As a graduate student, there are additional opportunities for student funding. Once you are admitted into a degree-bearing graduate program at UK, you can apply for a wide variety of financial assistance, including assistantships and fellowships. These opportunities can be tied to your program’s availability, so you should inquire with your program director about opportunities available within your program!
Program Specific Funding Opportunities
Contact the program to learn more about possible tuition support funded through the Kentucky Department of Education (KDE).
Expand Your Learning
Internship options are available at a variety of locations.
Get Involved!
Students who get involved in activities outside of the classroom tend to do better academically and develop meaningful relationships with others at UK. Our network of student organizations and activities has something for everyone, from academic to professional to fun!
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Complete the form to get the latest updates on this program, including special events and application deadlines.
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At the University of Kentucky, we provide personalized support, innovative resources, and countless opportunities to help you turn your aspirations into achievements.
