Paul V. Sherlock Center on Disabilities is seeking a graduate student interested in becoming an Orientation and Mobility Specialist (O&M).
This traineeship opportunity will include participation in a two-year part-time master’s degree in the Vision Studies/O&M track at UMASS Boston’s Vision Studies M.Ed. Program and participation in the Paul V. Sherlock Center on Disabilities’ Traineeship Program.
Eligible applicants will:
- Have a bachelor’s degree.
- Have a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
- Have documented experiences with persons who have disabilities.
- Be enrolled in the Vision Studies: Orientation and Mobility Track M.Ed. program at UMASS Boston.
- Be a Rhode Island resident.
Traineeships:
- Will result in National Certification in O&M offered by the Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation and Education Professionals (ACVREP).
- Will provide opportunities to learn about national, state and local disability initiatives.
- Will provide a stipend of $2,000 per semester (fall and spring) to cover additional expenses not covered by the UMASS Boston Grant (OSEP).
Students:
- Must complete master’s degree in Vision Studies: Orientation and Mobility and obtain National Certification offered by ACVREP in O&M.
- Will participate for an additional six hours per week on Sherlock Center projects from September to June.
- Must participate in a monthly seminar.
- Two years of service commitment for every year of funding received (four years) per UMASS funding grant requirements.
Initial inquiries must include:
- Letter of intent expressing your interest in students with visual impairments and your interest in participation in the traineeship opportunity.
- Letters of interest should be emailed to Stefanie Davit by Sept. 10, 2025.
- Participants must be accepted to the UMASS Boston Vision Studies: O&M Track for the fall 2025 semester. This opportunity is available contingent upon grant funding to the UCEDD.
For additional information, contact Stefanie Davit.