Orientation and Mobility (O&M) Program
Get prepared for a unique career allowing you to work with people of all ages who have visual impairments. As a student in orientation and mobility (O&M) you’ll learn a multitude of competencies to help individuals with visual impairments access training that supports safe, efficient and independent travel skills.
Program Features
Learn through coursework addressing special education policy, laws, resources, learning theories, service delivery models, meeting the needs of diverse consumers, including those with additional disabilities, environmental analysis and psychosocial aspects of blindness and visual impairment.
Gain knowledge in visual impairment, with specialization in orientation skills, movement, anatomy and physiology of the eye, conceptual development, use of senses, assessment, and relevant medical information that supports instruction, assessment and on-going training.
Hands-on learning opportunities and diverse internship experiences that support application of knowledge in real-world settings, providing a well-rounded experience to facilitate future job prospects.
Program prepares you for a culminating exam leading to professional certification as a certified orientation and mobility specialist (COMS) through the Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation and Education Professionals.
Coursework may be used towards a master’s degree specializing in sensory impairment and inclusion. Upon enrollment, please inform your advisor if you are interested in this advanced degree.
Career Paths
A COMS may work in a variety of settings, including schools, early intervention programs serving infants, toddlers, and their families, educational service centers, residential schools for the blind, rehabilitation centers, adult services, veterans administration hospitals, or as private contractors serving a multitude of clients.
Licensure Requirements
Prerequisite: Bachelor's degree
Minimum Program hours: 23
Deadline to apply:
- August 24 (Autumn)
- January 15 (Spring)
- June 19 (Summer)
Program Start
Autumn, Spring, Summer
Curriculum
Licensure Disclosure
Ohio State academic programs are designed to prepare students for licensure or certification in Ohio. If you plan to pursue licensure or certification in a state other than Ohio, please review state educational requirements for licensure and certification at go.osu.edu/onground.
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