-
Majors and Concentrations
- American Sign Language – English Interpretation (BA)
- More about ASL-English Interpretation
-
Related Events
- November 3: Fall Open House
-
Other Programs to Consider
- Creative Writing: Poetry
- Cultural Studies
- Television
- Journalism
- Creative Writing: Nonfiction
American Sign Language (ASL) is a language of complex linguistic structures and a rich history. The study of ASL rewards students with the pleasure, discipline, and insight involved in the study of any language. Interpretation allows students the opportunity to develop a range of communicative abilities, a keen intelligence and sensitivity, and creative strategies for becoming effective cultural mediators among diverse communities. We approach all activities in the department from the perspective that the deaf community is a unique linguistic and cultural minority.
ASL is an independent and fully developed language, one that has come to occupy a place of major importance in contemporary linguistics and communication theory. The first two years of the major focus on language development and cultural studies, and introduce students to the field of interpretation. In their junior and senior years, students focus on practical, hands-on interpretation courses, theoretical courses, and a year-long practicum that allows them to practice interpreting in real-world situations under the supervision of professional mentors. In order to address the need for more interpreters of different ethnicities, the major includes a requirement that explores the multicultural issues in interpretation. Our program is academically rigorous, with a focus on training skilled interpreters who can work with a diverse client base. Electives in the department include courses on working with those who are deaf and blind, as well as courses that emphasize ASL literature and creativity and explore specialized areas within the profession. The department also offers a minor in ASL Studies for students in other majors who are interested in ASL and Deaf culture.
Our distinguished faculty includes native users of American Sign Language and nationally certified interpreters, all of whom have been extensively involved with the deaf community and interpreter education for many years. Their impressive credentials include advanced degrees in Interpretation from Gallaudet University, national certifications from the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID), and national certifications from the American Sign Language Teachers Association. The faculty are actively involved in national and international organizations that promote interpreter education.
The ASL – English Interpretation curriculum involves two semesters of practicum. The practicum gives students an opportunity to undertake real-life interpretation assignments, both supervised and unsupervised, while getting feedback from professional mentor interpreters.
Carly J. Flagg
Chairperson, ASL-English Interpretation
