Master's Degree in Teacher Preparation Program in Visual Impairments
OVERVIEW
Who is this program for?
The Master's degree in Teacher Preparation for Visual Impairments is designed for individuals passionate about helping students with visual disabilities achieve success in academic and daily life through specialized teaching strategies. Graduates can pursue careers as special education teachers, orientation and mobility specialists, or assistive technology experts, working in schools, rehabilitation centers, or nonprofit organizations to support individuals with visual impairments.
Program Overview
Do you want to teach children who are blind and visually impaired? Becoming a Teacher of the Visually Impaired (TVI) is a rewarding and in-demand career option!
The Teacher Preparation Program in Visual Impairments equips future educators with the specialized skills and knowledge needed to support students who are blind or have low vision. Through a combination of coursework, hands-on experience, and field-based learning, students learn to design accessible instruction, utilize assistive technologies, and foster inclusive learning environments. Graduates are prepared to make a meaningful difference in the lives of visually impaired students, helping them develop independence, confidence, and academic success across a range of educational settings.
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.
Plan to Pursue Licensure Outside of Kentucky?
If you plan to obtain professional licensure outside of Kentucky, please refer to the Licensure page to confirm whether the program meets the educational requirements for professional licensure in your state of interest.
FIND OUT EXACTLY
What You'll Learn
This program prepares teachers to work with children who are blind and visually impaired, including with multiple disabilities. Learn how to modify the general education curriculum for children in preschool through 12th grade, as well as teach specialized skills in the Expanded Core Curriculum, ensuring skills necessary for future success. Teachers of the Visually Impaired (TVIs) can work individually with students, alongside classroom teachers, as well as in specialized classrooms and residential schools for the blind. Learn to teacher skills such as braille, assistive technology, independent living skills, and self-advocacy. This highly rewarding career is in high-demand throughout Kentucky and the nation.
Designed to be flexible and responsive to your learning needs:
- Part-time program with two classes a semester
- Evening courses online
- Select face-to-face weekends
- One intensive face-to-face summer
- Complete the program in as little as five semesters
This hybrid program has options for current teachers, as well as those new to the education field.
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
Admission Requirements
Please view the Graduate School's Admission Requirements. If there are Additional Requirements listed below, those program-specific requirements also apply.
Application Requirements
Please view the application requirements for the Graduate School. If there are Additional Requirements listed below, those program-specific requirements also apply.
Application Deadlines
Domestic
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Fall
- 07/25/2025
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Spring
- 12/12/2025
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Summer
- 04/18/2026
International
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Fall
- 04/15/2025
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Spring
- 09/15/2025
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!
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!
Get More Information
Complete the form to get the latest updates on this program, including special events and application deadlines.
Discover your Future
At the University of Kentucky, we provide personalized support, innovative resources, and countless opportunities to help you turn your aspirations into achievements.
