National Research and Training Center on Blindness and Low Vision (NRTC)

The National Research and Training Center on Blindness and Low Vision (NRTC) is primarily funded by the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR). Their current NIDILRR funding is for a Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Employment for Individuals with Blindness or Other Visual Impairments.The NRTC has also received research funding from the Institute of Education Sciences, the Office of Special Education Programs, and the National Institutes of Health, and currently receives funding for training and technical assistance activities for the Older Individuals who are Blind program through the Rehabilitation Services Administration (OIB)

The Older Individuals who are Blind Technical Assistance Center is a part of the National Research & Training Center on Blindness and Low Vision (NRTC) at Mississippi State University, focused on agencies serving older individuals who are blind (OIB). They will be hosting our own Dr. Alex Cohen for an informational webinar. To register or learn more, CLICK HERE:

Below is some additionalk information about NRTC from their website:

NRTC Highlights

  • Research produced by NRTC staff over decades of study has contributed significantly to the field of employment for people who are blind or have low vision. Over 60 peer-reviewed publications have been produced by staff since 2011. (NRTC publications available for download.)
  • Training is a key focus for the NRTC. We offer graduate certificate training for counselors and vision rehabilitation therapists who work with individuals with blindness or low vision through the Vision Specialist Program, training for agencies providing services under the Older Individuals who are Blind program, and online continuing education courses. (Learn more about our training activities.)
  • Technical assistance is provided to professionals who work with individuals who are blind or have low vision, these individuals themselves and their family members, employers, and anyone who has a question about blindness or low vision. We have a website dedicated to providing technical assistance. If you have a question for us, email us or call 662-325-2001.
national research and training center on blindness and low vision