Deaf Studies: Sign Language Interpreter Option

The associate in arts degree program in Deaf Studies: Sign Language Interpreter Option is designed to provide students with a broad educational experience based on a balance and diversity of general education, American Sign Language (ASL) and interpreting courses. Students are provided the opportunity to develop an understanding of the profession of interpreting for deaf and hearing individuals and the knowledge, attitude and skills necessary to function as entry-level professional interpreters. The program also provides for career exploration within the deaf community and the basic academic preparation for possible transfer to bachelor degree programs. A minimum of 72 credit hours are required for graduation.

Program Prerequisites: ASL101 Elementary ASL I and ASL102 Elementary ASL II with a "B" or better or demonstrate comparable skills/knowledge. See a representative in Enrollment Services for additional admissions criteria for this program. All ASL and DST courses, with the exception of DST101, require a DST major or permission of the instructor.

Additional Admissions Criteria: Enrollment Services will provide additional admissions criteria for this program. All Admission criteria are available on the NECC website at www.necc.mass.edu. Click on Deaf Studies, the degree or certificate of your choice, and courses and requirements.

CORI/CHRI/SORI: Students interested in participation in this academic program may be required to undergo a Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) check, a Criminal Records Central Repository (CHRI) check and/or a Sex Offender Registry Information (SORI) check. For more information, visit www.necc.mass.edu/corisori.

(It is strongly recommended that students choose electives in consultation with their advisor or program coordinator).