Program Overview
The American Sign Language (ASL) program offers courses in language, literature, and culture that prepare students to engage effectively within the Deaf community. Students develop proficiency in ASL while building intercultural communication skills. Many courses fulfill General Education requirements, allowing students to explore a range of disciplines and demonstrate proficiency in areas such as English and mathematics.
Career Opportunities
Graduates gain a foundation in ASL and Deaf culture, preparing them for further study or careers in Deaf Education, Deaf Studies, medical fields, social services, acting, and ASL/English Interpreting. Careers in Deaf Education include teaching Deaf or hard-of-hearing students, educational support, early intervention, and school administration. Careers in Deaf Studies include advocacy, community outreach, program coordination, human services, ASL instruction, and media or performing arts roles focused on Deaf culture and accessibility.
What You Will Learn
- Use American Sign Language with sufficient structural accuracy to communicate in most formal and informal conversations regarding social and professional topics, and day-to-day activities.
- Use American Sign Language effectively to communicate for a variety of purposes, adjusting language features, register, and discourse style to meet the needs of different audiences and contexts.
- Demonstrate respect for Deaf individuals and communities by applying culturally appropriate behaviors and linguistic choices that reflect an understanding of Deaf cultural values, norms, and diversity.
- Apply strategies to communicate effectively with Deaf people from diverse backgrounds, demonstrating adaptability to variations in language use, communication modes, and individual identity factors.
- Identify their own cultural values and social customs to compare and contrast them with those of the Deaf community in the United States and other cultural groups.
- Analyze and adjust communication behaviors to reflect the impact of cultural frameworks—such as collectivism/individualism and high-/low-context communication—on ASL discourse and interaction.
- Demonstrate critical thinking and problem-solving skills that will aid in continual language development, cultural competencies, and lifelong learning.
Transfer Pathway
For students intending to transfer into a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) program, the language requirement may be satisfied by completing four progressive semesters of language courses (“LANG” 2020) or an equivalent assessment. ASL 2020 qualifies as a “LANG 2020” course. Meet with an academic advisor to determine the B.A. requirements specific to the intended transfer institution.
Estimated Cost
- Tuition and Fees
- Books: $350
- Course Fees: $25
- Other: $60 (online video recording tool)
Note: Fees vary based on specific registration and are subject to changes.
Career Outlook
Some careers shown require further education beyond this program.
Additional Information
The program provides a liberal arts foundation and a clear pathway toward the ASL/English Interpreting AAS, including all prerequisite coursework required to apply. Admission into the ASL/English Interpreting AAS is competitive and requires a separate application and acceptance after completing prerequisites.