Graduate Certificate

Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments

Become a Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments in Pitt’s hybrid program, blending online coursework, in-person workshops and a semester of student teaching.

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Career Ready

Prepares you with the skills, credentials or connections to step directly into your field after graduation.

In-Person Experience

In-person projects or clinicals at non-campus sites required to complete your program.

On-Campus Immersion

Students are required to visit the Pitt campus to conduct hands-on classwork with faculty supervision.

Next Application Date

Rolling Admissions

Credits

Pacing

Part-Time

Format

Hybrid

Type of Program

Graduate Certificate

Advance Your Expertise in Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments

Prepare to make a meaningful impact as a certified Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments (TVI) through the University of Pittsburgh School of Education’s nationally respected program. Designed for aspiring educators who want to help blind and visually impaired learners reach their full potential, Pitt’s TVI program combines specialized coursework, hands-on training, and real-world teaching experience.

Fully aligned with Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) standards, the curriculum prepares you for state certification to teach students in preK–12 settings. Students earn a 29-credit graduate certificate leading to Pennsylvania TVI certification, with the option to add a master’s degree in education by completing two additional courses (35 credits total).

The program is offered in a flexible hybrid format, with most coursework delivered online and select in-person workshops focused on practical, hands-on skills. You’ll also complete a full-semester student-teaching practicum in a school district, gaining essential classroom experience.

Eligibility

Requires a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.

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On-Campus

Experience

Some on-campus attendance required. Contact the program for details.

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Licensure

Pathways

Pennsylvania Department of Education TVI certification

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Accreditation

Accredited by the Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired (AER).

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The Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments has one application cycle per year.  You can start the program fall (August).

Application deadline

Rolling Admissions

Class start

Fall

What to Expect in Your Classes 

This program offers 9 total courses, totaling 29 credits. All coursework is delivered in a hybrid format, giving you the flexibility to study from anywhere. Classes run for about 15 weeks, allowing you to complete the program in 2-3 years. Students will study part-time.

Total Courses 9
Credit Hours 29
Format Hybrid
Class Lengths About 15 weeks
Time to Completion 2-3 years
Pace Options Part-Time

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Plan Your Education With Confidence in Cost 

The Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments current tuition rates are listed for in-state and out-of-state students. To support students in financing their education, the University of Pittsburgh offers a range of financial aid options and payment plans, making it easier to manage tuition costs while completing your studies.

2026-27 tuition rates are pending approval by the Board of Trustees, expected in July 2026.

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