Whether you are preparing for a career in ASLI, planning to transfer to a four-year baccalaureate-granting institution or updating your skills, College of DuPage has the right program for you. We offer:

• Dedicated instructors with years of professional experience.
• Instruction utilizing our state-of-the-art equipment and top-notch facilities.
• Affordable courses to help you achieve success without creating overwhelming debt or draining your savings account.
• Small class sizes to ensure you receive personalized attention.

American Sign Language Interpreter, A.A.S.

The American Sign Language Interpreter degree will prepare students for a career working as a sign language interpreter for people who are Deaf and hard of hearing. This degree combines both the 21 credit hour certificate of American Sign Language proficiency as well as the 24 credit hour certificate in American Sign Language Interpreting and provides instruction in communication models and processes of American Sign Language, Deaf culture, interpreting skills, ethical understanding, and hands-on training in oral and manual interpreting in a wide range of situations. This degree also requires completion of 19 to 22 general education credit hours. Successful completion of this program will prepare students for certification examinations conducted by the State of Illinois and national accrediting agencies. This degree requires a minimum of 64 credits in program requirements and general education in the courses listed below.

American Sign Language Interpreting, Certificate

The American Sign Language Interpreting certificate provides instruction in communication models and processes of American Sign Language, Deaf culture, interpreting skills, ethical understanding, and hands-on training in oral and manual interpreting in a wide range of situations. Successful completion of this certificate or degree program will prepare students for certification examinations conducted by the State of Illinois and national accrediting agencies. This certificate requires 24 credits in the courses listed below.

American Sign Language, Certificate

The American Sign Language certificate provides the language and cultural foundation for competency in American Sign Language as well as preparation for the certificate in American Sign Language Interpreting. Students who successfully complete this certificate may apply for selective enrollment in the American Sign Language Interpreting Certificate. This certificate requires 21 credits in the courses listed below.

Academic and Career Pathways give you a roadmap to achieving your career goals. Follow a pathway based on your degree or certificate that outlines which classes you need to take and when so you graduate on time or move on to the next phase in your career.

• American Sign Language Interpreter, Associate in Applied Science
• American Sign Language Interpreting, Certificate
• American Sign Language, Certificate

American Sign Language Interpreting Degree and Certificates

1. Describe the linguistic importance of American Sign Language.
2. List historical events and current movements that influence society’s views of deafness and the Deaf community.
3. Demonstrate the ability to comprehend vocabulary, grammar, and non-verbal techniques, and apply them at a conversational pace.
4. Demonstrate an increased interaction with the Deaf community through usage of American Sign Language (ASL).
5. Demonstrate an advanced level of flow and cohesion in signing and voicing ability.
6. Identify the application of theory to practice in fieldwork experiences.
7. Demonstrate self-assessment of interpreting work.
8. Demonstrate professional behavior, decision-making, and demeanor.