Sign Language/Interpreting
Associate Professor Margaret Maher, Coordinator
The Major in Sign Language Interpreting prepares students to work as professional interpreters and transliterators with Deaf and with hard-of-hearing persons in a variety of situations. While American Sign Language serves as a foundation, several other modes of communication used by the Deaf community are introduced as well. Audio-visual materials are accessible for individual study of a broad cross-section of communication methods. Interactions with Deaf and hard-of-hearing persons and regular practice using videotaping equipment are principal means for the development of skills. The curriculum prepares students to interpret between spoken English and American Sign Language and to transliterate between conceptually accurate signed English and spoken English. Success in American Sign Language (ASL) and Deaf Studies or Sign Language Interpreting requires being able to perceive signers’ faces, hand movements and body movements and being able to convey and receive ASL through these channels quickly at the natural pace of language. Also essential are ability to perceive and process visual information and eye-hand coordination that allow effective communication. A good foundation in basic ASL is critical to advancing successfully in the ASL and Deaf Studies major as well as the Sign Language Interpreting major. Sign Language Interpreting majors require good auditory perceptual skills as well as good visual skills when working between auditory and signed communications quickly and in real time. One exception is that Deaf people who want to become Deaf interpreters are encouraged to apply to the Sign Language Interpreting program. Such interpreters are often intermediary interpreters who work between signed communications.
The Major in Sign Language Interpreting requires 48 hours with 39 hours beyond the first year ASL 110 and 120 courses in the major and nine hours in related courses. Major courses which are required are ASL 203, SLI 215, 301, 302, 303, ASL 307, SLI 311, 321, 337, and one course from ASL 204, 305, or 331, and 351-52. Required related courses are Psychology 101 and Social Science 301. Sociology 211 and 215 are strongly recommended. A supervised internship in an approved off-campus agency is an essential part of the major program. Internships and practicum requirements, limited class enrollments, and the necessity of offering some classes in alternate years, demand very careful planning by students majoring in American Sign Language and Sign Language Interpreting. Major paradigms and alternate year offerings are available from major advisers.
