Graduate Diploma in Orientation and Mobility

Orientation and Mobility (O&M) is the practice of enabling people with low vision or blindness to know where they are, so they can get where they want to go safely. O&M specialists work with people of all ages, tailoring interventions to suit the needs of the individual client, including people with additional complexities such as health conditions.

Work integrated learning placements form a significant portion of the program and provide opportunities for students to undertake supervised placements at partner organisations such as health facilities, education settings and other relevant agencies. Students are exposed to a wide breath of experience and upon graduating, you will be able to able to demonstrate clinical competence with various populations of individuals with blindness and low vision, allowing you to work across a wide range of organisations that provide O&M services.

The Graduate Diploma in Orientation and Mobility will provide graduates with specialised knowledge, and critical and analytical skills to support lifelong learning. It provides practical experience as part of the process for graduates to apply for industry certification and to work as an O&M specialist with clients who have low vision or blindness.

Study with the School of Optometry and Vision Science
UNSW Optometry and Vision Science is the largest school of optometry in Australia. We are committed to forming partnerships within the ophthalmic industry and across the healthcare sector. The School is committed to translational research that will lead to practical applications and significant improvements in community eye health.

The minimum entry requirement for this program is an AQF level 7 bachelor’s degree in any discipline. Undergraduate degrees from a health science and/or teaching background are generally an advantage.

In order to comply with organisational requirements students will need to have an NDIS Workers Screening Check, which in most states includes a Working With Children Check (WWCC), criminal history check and abide by the immunisation and safety protocols from the relevant health authorities for students in training. Requirements will be outlined specially to students when placements are secured for that student. The cost associated with this work experience will be met by the student.