An individual embarking on a study of American Sign Language will not only discover a language having its own grammar, syntax and structure, but also a Deaf Community possessing a rich history and culture. Although American Sign Language classes are a pre-requisite for those wishing to enter an interpreter training program, individuals achieving fluency in the language can pursue non-interpreting careers such as educators, paraprofessionals, counselors, etc.
The advent of video relay companies, coupled with the ongoing national shortage of Sign Language interpreters has created a demand for this profession. Interpreters have the additional benefit of choosing to work independently or as a staff interpreter in a variety of unique settings that can vary by day or hour if so desired- resulting in a fulfilling and stimulating career. Below are just a few examples of these settings.
Although interpreters may complete a certificate program, this does not make them a “Certified Interpreter”. National certification can be achieved by successful evaluation through the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID).
Career Opportunities
This listing includes career positions and settings for Sign Language interpreters. Video Relay, Medical, Mental/Behavioral Health, Education, Performing Arts, Theme Parks, Cruise Lines, News/Media, Legal/Court, Forensic, Religious, Social/community
An introductory course that teaches the student the appropriate application of fingerspelling and its production. The course will include strategies for improvement. Also included will be the articulation of loan signs and one to three-digit numbers. Emphasis on both receptive and expressive fluency.
Lecture Hours: 18.00
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only
Introduction to American Sign Language as it is used within the Deaf Community. Instruction includes the devlopment and basic structure of the language as well as Deaf Culture. With emphasis on both expressive and receptive skills, students will learn songs, poetry and story-telling. UC,
Lecture Hours: 72.00
Transfer: Transfers to both UC/CSU
A continuation in the study of American Sign Language. Instruction includes the development and basic structure of the language as well as Deaf Culture. Emphasis is placed on both expressive and receptive skills and students will learn songs, poetry and storytelling.
Prerequisite(s): ASL 122 Minimum grade C
Lecture Hours: 72.00
Transfer: Transfers to both UC/CSU
A continuation of the development of skills in American Sign Language with emphasis on intermediate comprehension and expression. With emphasis on both expressive and receptive skills, students will learn songs, poetry and storytelling. US,
Prerequisite(s): ASL 123 Minimum grade C
Lecture Hours: 72.00
Transfer: Transfers to both UC/CSU
A continuation in the study of American Sign Language and the Deaf Community including its history and culture. Emphasis will be on receptive and expressive skills as they relate to narrating life events. Students will learn techniques such as role shifting, use of space and classifiers in addition to appropriate non-manual behaviors. This course will prepare the student for entrance into an interpreter training program.
Prerequisite(s): ASL 124 Minimum grade C
Lecture Hours: 72.00
Transfer: Transfers to both UC/CSU
This course introduces the field of American Sign Language interpreting and includes models of interpreting, ethical principles, and its history and development in modern times. Attention will be given to the development of necessary processing skills for consecutive interpretation. Grade Option.
Co-requisite(s): ASL 125 concurrently or prior
Lecture Hours: 72.00
Transfer: Transfers to CSU only