American Sign Language (ASL) Interpreter Prep Program A.A.S.

The American Sign Language (ASL) Interpreter Preparatory Program A.A.S. prepares students to work as an entry-level American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter to facilitate and mediate communication between Deaf/hard of hearing and hearing people. Students will develop skills both receptive and expressive American Sign Language. Students will experience a variety of learning environments, including classroom work, laboratory practice and field placement. Students will be required to have both in-class and out-of-class experience with members of the Deaf community to further develop ASL fluency and cultural competency. Upon graduation, students will be prepared to work as an entry-level interpreter in the field or to continue their studies at a four-year institution.

*Students are required to maintain a B or higher in all ASLS and INTP courses in order to continue in the program. Students will be required to meet with the Program Manager for admission into the Program.

*This is a Selective Admissions Program. See Application & Admissions Info below. 

Success in the program is defined by your ability to apply what you’ve learned in real-world scenarios. This program ensures that every student achieves the following core competencies:

• Apply theoretical, ethical, cultural, and practical knowledge of the interpreting field needed to pass the RID certification knowledge written test.
• Understand major linguistic features of ASL and English and the major cultural features of Deaf and non-Deaf communities.
• Possess cognitive processing skills to effectively interpret between English and American Sign Language and to transliterate between spoken English and a signed form of English.
• Comprehend different modes of interpreting/transliterating (i.e. consecutive and simultaneous) and choose the appropriate mode in a given setting/situation.
• Provide an accurate and appropriate transfer of a message from a source language into a target language from the point of view of style, culture, and the linguistic needs of the consumers.

Success starts with a solid plan. Your program's course sequence is designed to build your skills step-by-step. By following this plan, you ensure you're meeting all program requirements and staying on track.

Program Pathway

The American Sign Language Interpreter Preparatory Program Student Manual will serve as a valuable reference guide for the nursing program. 

ASL Interpreter Preparatory Program Student Manual