Frequently Asked Questions

What is the program like?

ITP classes are taught in ASL. You must receive a grade of “B” or better in each class in the ITP.  Classes in which a “B-” or lower is earned will not be accepted and you will be unable to take further ITP classes until the grade can be improved.  Classes are offered in both the morning and the evening to allow for flexibility in your schedule.  The program is designed to enable you to acquire the necessary skills, knowledge and experience to prepare you to take the Utah Novice Level Certification exam. ITP classes are not ASL classes, but instead focus on the skills and information needed for interpreting, such as information processing, memory, cultural mediation and a study of the linguistic features of ASL and English.

What are the requirements for entering the Interpreting Program?

To enter the program you must complete ASLI 1010 and 1020 with a grade of “B” or better. Students who are new to SLCC beginning Summer 2006 and beyond must also take the CPT or ACT test. Math scores must be above 40 (CPT) or 15 (ACT). Reading scores must be above 81 (CPT) or 20 (ACT). If lower scores are received, remedial courses with a C or better will fulfill the requirement. Additionally, a course in drama, public speaking or debate is required. (High school classes will be accepted or students my take COMM 1020 or THEA 1033 from SLCC). After completing these requirements, students must fill out an ITP application with transcripts. Applications are accepted at the end of Spring term and throughout Summer . Because SLCC is an open enrollment institution, if you have the prerequisites listed above and submit documentation with your ITP application, you will be accepted into the program.

What if I already have some signing skills?

If you already have some signing skills, you may take a challenge test for ASLI 1010, 1020 or both. Test fees are $25. If you pass with 80% or better, you will receive passing credit for that course.  To schedule a challenge test, contact the department at 957-4929 VP* or mark.jones@slcc.edu. To guarantee results in time to register for the next semester, challenge tests must be taken before July 15 for Fall, before November 15 for Spring, and before April 15 for Summer Enrollment. High school students who earn the ASL Level 1 skills certificate may use this in lieu of the 1010 challenge test for a $25 fee. If you have questions about whether or not you have to take the challenge test or what to expect at the challenge test contact the department secretary at 957-4929 VP*.

Do I need a degree to be an interpreter?

Utah state laws currently do not require an interpreter to have a degree.  However, we strongly encourage all students to get a degree because interpreters need to have a wide range of knowledge for successful interpreting.  Candidates for National Interpreter Certification will be required to have an Associate’s Degree beginning 2008.

How long is the program?

If you have met the ASL prerequisites (see requirements for entering ITP below), the American Sign Language Interpreter Training Program is a two-year program. Each semester acts as prerequisite to the next semester so ITP courses must be taken in a prescribed order. For new students of ASL, the entire program can be completed in six semesters. General Education courses should be planned carefully with an advisor in order to graduate in a specified time period.

Can the Program be taken part-time?

While the program is set up to be completed while attending full-time, it is possible to extend the program by one year to complete it part time. Please contact the department for help in planning your schedule.

Is there a demand for interpreters?

Yes! Because of the passage of legislation, employers, governmental agencies, public service providers, medical facilities, and businesses are now responsible to provide and pay for qualified interpreters if Deaf individuals need and request such services. As a result, the demand for qualified interpreters has grown tremendously in recent years.  The largest need is in educational settings. 

What career opportunities are there for interpreters?

Career opportunities for American Sign Language interpreters exist in the fields of education, business, employment, social services, mass media, finance, medical care, mental health, legal aid, law enforcement, religion, recreation, video relay and the arts.     

What are the laws pertaining to interpreters?

The Utah State Interpreting Law went into effect July 1994.  This law requires all interpreters to pass the Utah State Certification exam, national RID certification exam or the EIPA exam in order to work as an interpreter.  There are three levels of Utah certification.  Working as an interpreter in Utah without certification constitutes a Class B Misdemeanor.    For more information regarding Utah certification laws or procedures, contact Mitch Jensen at 263-4875.

What is the cost?

SLCC’s estimated cost for tuition and fees is approximately $2,400 a year based on full time enrollment for two semesters. Books and supplies cost roughly $500 for the same time period.  To see a current tuition schedule, refer to SLCC’s web site.

How do I get started at SLCC?

The first step is to be admitted as a student to Salt Lake Community College. To apply for admission, go to www.slcc.edu or contact the Admissions office at 957-4298.

*Hearing callers may place video relay calls to any deaf or hard-of-hearing individual by simply dialing the toll free number 1-866-FAST-VRS (1-866-327-8877) with a standard telephone.  Then, provide the interpreter with the VP number.