Master of Education in Visual Impairment: Shaping Future Educators
Take the next step in your teaching career with USC Upstate’s Master’s in Visual Impairment Education. South Carolina’s only program of its kind prepares educators to work with students who are visually impaired through specialized training in Teaching Students with Visual Impairment (TVI) or Orientation and Mobility (O&M).
Programs are available for certified teachers seeking specialization as well as individuals pursuing certification as an Orientation and Mobility Specialist.
USC Upstate has no graduate application fee

Why Choose Our Program?
With a significant percentage of current teachers of visually impaired students set to retire in the coming years, there has never been a better time to enter this critical field. Our program aligns with the core values of the USC Upstate College of Education and meets the professional standards established by the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) and the Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation & Education Professionals (ACVREP).

A Comprehensive Approach
Embark on a two-year program designed to combine flexibility with hands-on experience. Coursework includes online classes, hybrid courses with one to two Saturday workshops, and in-person classes held in June for students pursuing the Orientation and Mobility concentration.
The curriculum covers essential topics such as braille, orientation and mobility, and assistive technology, preparing graduates to meet the diverse educational needs of students with visual impairments.

Empowering Educators
Our program provides more than just classroom instruction. It places a strong emphasis on collaborative clinical experiences in real school settings, allowing you to apply your skills in practical situations. With small class sizes and a supportive learning environment, you’ll benefit from personalized attention. Courses are offered through a combination of on-campus and distance delivery methods, providing flexibility to fit your schedule.
learn more about the program!
The academic catalog provides detailed information about program requirements and course descriptions.
Degree options include:
- Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), Special Education: Visual Impairment – 45 credit hours (initial teacher licensure)
- Master of Education (M.Ed.), Special Education: Visual Impairment – 39 credit hours
You can also contact your admissions counselor for guidance on the next steps. Alyssa Dickerson, [email protected], works with prospective students interested in graduate programs in education and can answer questions about admission, program options, and the application process.

Next Steps
Discover all that USC Upstate has to offer you We’re here to make this journey personal and informative, so let’s get started!

We’ll share a wealth of valuable information tailored just for you. You’ll receive details about your major, critical scholarship opportunities, financial aid information, and exclusive events that will help you confirm that USC Upstate is the perfect fit for you.

Your next goal is to secure admission to USC Upstate, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Explore our program and discover a fulfilling path as a Teacher for the Visually Impaired. Connect with Dr. Tina Herzberg at 864-503-5572 for more information and to begin your journey toward becoming an influential educator.
We’re thrilled to be a part of your journey toward success. Let’s connect, explore, and thrive together at USC Upstate!
Resources for Continuous Learning
Expand your knowledge and professional network through access to resources that support individuals with visual impairments. As part of the program, you will engage with instructional materials, field experiences, and professional organizations that connect you to a broader community committed to making a difference.
The path to becoming a skilled educator for students with visual impairments starts here. Join the USC Upstate College of Education and make a meaningful impact on the lives of those you serve.
