BLVS
What are Blindness and Low Vision Studies?
The initial program at WMU (called the Department of Blind Rehabilitation) was a program to prepare professionals to teach people who were blind to travel with a long cane and to manage basic daily living skills such as food preparation and personal and home management. The department offerings have expanded considerably and the name has changed to reflect the wider areas of preparation that are included. The department faculty now prepare professionals for positions in rehabilitation, education, and rehabilitation counseling and conduct research related to a variety of factors affecting individuals with visual impairments of all ages.
What do blindness and low vision studies professionals do?
Blindness and low vision studies professionals work with people of all ages to provide training that promotes independent and productive lifestyles, from traveling around the home, to traveling around the world; from attending educational institutions, to competing successfully for professional positions; from using the telephone, to becoming proficient in electronic mail and sophisticated communication technology. Instruction is generally provided in one-on-one situations and is designed to meet the needs of the client. Some graduates of the program pursue doctoral degrees and eventually move into faculty positions, either at WMU or other institutions.
Where do blindness and low vision studies professionals work?
Professionals in the field are in great demand. Employment is available in state agencies, private agencies, public schools, residential schools, and Veterans Administration medical centers. Because so few universities graduate these practitioners, and so many employers are seeking graduates, many positions go unfilled each year. Shortages are especially widespread for educators of children who are visually impaired.
Individuals who are willing to relocate can find jobs in most areas of the United States and Canada. Salaries are competitive with those in other human service professions. Upon graduation assistance with finding employment is provided.