B.S.Ed. in Special Education - Specialist in Low Vision & Blindness

Illinois State University offers a specialized B.S.Ed. in Special Education with a focus on Low Vision & Blindness. This program prepares future educators to support individuals with visual impairments, equipping them with specialized skills in adaptive techniques, assistive technology, and inclusive instructional strategies for students with low vision or blindness.

Curriculum: The curriculum combines foundational coursework in special education theory and practice with specialized courses focused on low vision and blindness. Students learn about visual assessments, braille literacy, orientation and mobility techniques, and effective communication methods tailored to meet the unique needs of students with visual impairments.

Research Focus: The program emphasizes research in low vision and blindness, exploring current trends and innovative practices in adaptive technologies, educational interventions, and accessibility solutions. Students have opportunities to engage in research projects that contribute to advancements in the field of visual impairment education.

Industry Engagement: Illinois State University maintains strong partnerships with local school districts, vision rehabilitation centers, and assistive technology providers. These partnerships offer students practical experiences through internships, practicums, and collaborative projects with professionals who specialize in visual impairment education.

Global Perspective: With a global perspective, the program integrates coursework that examines international perspectives on visual impairment education and inclusive practices. Students explore cultural considerations, global trends in assistive technologies, and policy issues that impact the educational experiences of individuals with visual impairments.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
• PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 115.

ISU offers several scholarships and financial aid options for international students to help them pursue their academic goals. These scholarships are based on academic achievements, leadership skills, and other criteria. 

International Tuition Waiver: International students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance and show promise for contributing to the ISU community may be eligible for tuition waivers. These waivers can significantly reduce the cost of tuition.

Redbird Academic Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to incoming undergraduate international students who have outstanding academic records. The scholarship amount varies depending on the student's academic achievements.

Redbird International Ambassador Scholarship: This scholarship recognizes outstanding leadership skills and contributions to the international community. Recipients of this scholarship serve as ambassadors for international students at ISU.

College-Specific Scholarships: Various colleges within ISU offer scholarships for international students pursuing specific academic programs. These scholarships are often based on academic performance and potential for success in the chosen field of study.

Study Abroad Scholarships: ISU encourages international students to engage in study abroad programs to gain global experiences. The university offers scholarships to support international students' participation in these programs.

International students interested in applying for scholarships at ISU should review the specific eligibility criteria and application deadlines for each scholarship.

Graduates of Illinois State University's B.S.Ed. in Special Education - Specialist in Low Vision & Blindness program are prepared for impactful careers supporting individuals with visual impairments. They acquire specialized skills and knowledge to provide educational and adaptive support, promoting independence and academic success in diverse settings.

Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments (TVI): Many graduates pursue careers as teachers of students with visual impairments (TVIs) in K-12 schools or specialized educational programs. They assess students' visual needs, develop individualized education plans (IEPs), and implement specialized instructional strategies such as braille literacy, orientation and mobility training, and use of assistive technologies.

Orientation and Mobility Specialist: Some graduates specialize as orientation and mobility (O&M) specialists, providing instruction in independent travel skills and spatial awareness for individuals with visual impairments. They teach techniques for safe navigation in various environments, enhancing students' mobility and autonomy.

Assistive Technology Specialist: Graduates may work as assistive technology specialists, focusing on the selection and implementation of technologies that support individuals with visual impairments. They assess technology needs, train users on assistive devices and software, and collaborate with educators to integrate technology into instructional practices.

Vision Rehabilitation Therapist: Some graduates pursue careers as vision rehabilitation therapists, providing comprehensive training in daily living skills, adaptive techniques, and psychosocial support for individuals adjusting to vision loss. They promote independence and quality of life through personalized rehabilitation programs.

Educational Consultant: With expertise in low vision and blindness, graduates may work as educational consultants, providing training and support to educators, families, and organizations. They offer guidance on best practices, accessibility standards, and inclusive educational strategies that promote academic and social-emotional development for individuals with visual impairments.