Jackson State University offers a program designed to give expertise in teaching children with visual impairments. This program, Deep South Synergy (DS²) TVI Project, is funded by the United States Department of Special Education, Office of Special Education Services. Both general and special educators are eligible. Participants can seek a Master of Science in Special Education, Visually Impaired Concentration Degree or the Mississippi K-12 Add-on Endorsement. Graduates will be profession-ready teachers who understand:
- the unique educational needs and appropriate decisions for research-based interventions,
- specialized curricula,
- modifications and accommodations in the learning environment,
- transition needs of children with visual impairments to live independently
The program requires successful completion of 39 credit hours. Twenty-seven of the 39 credit hours consists of specialized coursework, with 12 hours of core coursework. A limited number of full scholarships are available to support students who qualify for the Master’s program.
Mississippi K-12 Add-On Endorsement:
Coursework is also provided to individuals seeking an add-on endorsement. Twenty-one credit hours of specialized coursework are required for the add-on endorsement. Students who participate in the endorsement program are not eligible for financial support from the grant.