Why study American Sign Language and Deaf Studies at MC?
Maryville College has a rich history of teaching American Sign Language (ASL) and partnering with the local Deaf Community. Language and community bind Deaf culture, and the major in ASL & Deaf Studies provides the knowledge and experiences to explore that connection. Our program allows students to explore ASL, Deaf Studies, and Psychology research and language advocacy for D/deaf, deafblind, and hard of hearing communities. Students will build a foundation in the historical, sociological, and multicultural aspects of D/deaf and deafblind communities to prepare for careers in deaf education or applied contexts such as art history, linguistics, STEM, psychology, business, law, interpreting, or social work. Students will be prepared to pursue graduate-level study and jobs that serve and support D/deaf, deafblind, and hard of hearing communities. If you are interested primarily in being an interpreter for the Deaf, Maryville College also has a major in ASL—English Interpreting.
Success in American Sign Language (ASL) and Deaf Studies require 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 is the 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 Major in ASL and Deaf Studies.
The Major in American Sign Language and Deaf Studies is intended for those desiring to pursue studies in the areas of linguistics or anthropology at the graduate level or communication skills/cultural knowledge for use in counseling, social work, teaching, working in schools for the Deaf, or other service fields. Audio-visual materials are accessible for individual study of a broad cross-section of communication methods. Interactions with D/deaf and hard-of-hearing persons and regular practice using videotaping equipment are principal means for the development of skills. Successful graduates of the ASL studies major will be able to comfortably communicate in ASL receptively and expressively and to interact comfortably and appropriately in the Deaf community at entry level. The Major in American Sign Language and Deaf Studies requires 46 hours. A double major in American Sign Language and Deaf Studies and American Sign Language-English Interpreting is not permitted.
Meet a Current Scot
Emmett Roden
Hometown: Church Hill, Tennessee
Emmett came to Maryville College to complete his bachelor’s degree in ASL/Deaf Studies. As a Deaf student, he received assistance from the College’s Disability Resources office, which secured interpreters for his classes and provided him with a foundation to find a sense of community on campus. He has been involved with the College’s Sign Language and Pride clubs, as well as Safe Space.
“My major allows me to spend most of my time with the Deaf community, as well as allowing me many opportunities to serve my community and become a valuable asset,” he said. Emmet’s goals are to pursue a teaching license and graduate school, as well as achieve membership in the American Sign Language Teachers Association.
Meet a Recent Grad
Gabriella Lupi ’19
Currently: Executive Assistant to the CEO, Mill Neck Family of Organizations, New York
After graduating from MC, Gabriela went on to earn her master’s degree in special education, K-12. She currently works for the Mill Neck Family of Organizations, a non-profit dedicated to empowering people who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing by providing resources, advocacy, education, technology and other support services. At Mill Neck, Gabriela has initiated an ASL immersion program for current and new staff to learn and develop their ASL skills.
“I have always had a passion for American Sign Language,” she said. “MC has encouraged me to use my skills to make a positive impact on lives and has taught me the invaluable skills in educating, advocating, and serving the Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and disabled communities.”