About American Sign Language Interpreting

American Sign Language, a form of communication used primarily in deaf communities, is a language in which people use their hands and other body parts to converse without sound. The American Sign Language interpreting program (ASL) at Valdosta State prepares students to interpret American Sign Language in a variety of settings. There is a high demand for qualified interpreters, who play a vital role in assisting those who are deaf and hard of hearing and serve a critical role in the educational system.   

American Sign Language Interpreting at Valdosta State University

Valdosta State University is the only college in Georgia and one of very few in the nation to offer a Bachelor of Science in Education degree in American Sign Language interpreting. Because of a critical shortage of American Sign Language interpreters, students in the Valdosta State program are in high demand, and the university boasts a 95-percent job placement rate for graduates. The American Sign Language interpreting degree program can be completed online or on campus, where classes average just 15 students. Students gain hands-on experience by participating in fieldwork and completing internships. On-campus activities for ASL majors include the American Sign Language Club, the Southeast Georgia Interpreting Organization and the American Sign Language Honor Society. The college also offers students the unique opportunity to hone their skills by volunteering to interpret at various events across campus.

Degrees

• Bachelor of Science in Education (B.S.Ed.)

About the American Sign Language Interpreting Curriculum

B.S.Ed.

The American Sign Language interpreting curriculum can be completed on campus or online utilizing distance education classrooms, video conferencing and webcam. Students learn interpreting and translitera­tion skills and gain in-depth knowledge of the field and an understanding of the interpreter's role within the school system. To enhance the classroom experience, students participate in field labs, practi­cum experiences and internships within local public school settings. Upon completion of the ASL degree program, students qualify to take state and national evaluations for inter­preter proficiency.

Careers*

• American Sign Language teacher
• American Sign Language tutor
• Field interpreter
• Government specialist
• Legal interpreter
• Medical interpreter
• Personal interpreter
• Sign language interpreter
• Sign language translator
• Social services specialist
• Special needs educator
• Speech language pathologist
• Speech therapist

*Some career possibilities may require additional degrees or certifications.