A bachelor’s degree is required to be able to forego and apply for a graduate program of O&M accredited by the Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually impaired. After passing their graduate program, they are required to pass their certification exam in order to practice.
Orientation and mobility specialists (O&M) are experts in teaching travel skills for those who are visually impaired. Additionally, they teach self-protective techniques and human guides. They emphasize teaching the use of adapted mobility devices and/or long white canes in all settings. Their treatment session focuses on crossing streets and utilizing public transportation options. O&M assists people with visual impairments to be as independent as possible in relation to their travel skills.