Preparation for a Career as a Communicator
Designed for those with a bachelor's degree in any field, the Interpreting I proficiency certificate introduces you to American Sign Language and the culture of the American Deaf community. The first of a two-part certificate, this program will help you work toward becoming an ASL/English interpreter.
Through your coursework, you will learn about cultural and historical perspectives of the deaf community in America, professional practices and ethics, and the theory of interpreting processes. A multimedia language and interpreting lab with video, digital and computer technology allows you to record and watch your ASL and interpreting skills. Fieldwork, observations and guest lecturers offer you the hands-on experience necessary for academic and career success.
The goal of an ASL/English interpreter is to make communication as complete and equal as possible for both Deaf and nondeaf participants. Interpreters accurately convey the thoughts, feelings, words, attitudes and meanings of the message, whether it is expressed in spoken English, ASL or other forms of signed communication.
Successful completion of this program enables you to enroll in the ASL/English Interpreting II proficiency certificate.
Careers
Find your path.
Interpreter and Translator – est. salary $51,914*
**EMSI Data, 2019; Philadelphia County, PA; a percentage of people in these jobs may have a bachelor's degree or higher.
Courses and Completion Sequence
| Course Number and Name | Prerequisites | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ASL 101 - Elementary American Sign Language I | 3 credits | |
| ASL 102 - Elementary American Sign Language II | ASL 101 with a grade of "C" or better | 3 credits |
| ASL 201 - Intermediate American Sign Language I | ASL 102 with a grade "C" or better (or program placement) | 3 credits |
| ASL 202 - Intermediate American Sign Language II | ASL 201 with a grade of "C" or better | 3 credits |
| ASL 215 - American Sign Language Fingerspelling | ASL 202 with a grade of "B" or better | 3 credits |
| ASL 230 - Structure of American Sign Language | ASL 202 with a grade of "B" or better, ENGL 101, which may be taken concurrently* | 3 credits |
| ASL 231 - Advanced American Sign Language I | ASL 202 with a grade of "B" or better | 3 credits |
| ASL 232 - Advanced American Sign Language II | ASL 231 with a grade of "C" or better | 3 credits |
| INT 105 - Introduction to the American Deaf Community | 3 credits |
* Students who hold a bachelor’s degree will already meet this prerequisite requirement.
General Education Requirements:
Featured Career
ASL/English Interpreter
Assist in the communication efforts among Deaf and nondeaf individuals in almost any setting. Adapt and be flexible to different situations where you are working with individuals with diverse communication needs.
$51,914
311
in the region
+17.6%
in the region
Typical Tasks
- Communicate spoken word through ASL in a variety of fields, including education, government, business, law and video relay companies
- Use your knowledge of ASL and Deaf culture to effectively and equally express messages and emotions
How well does it pay?
New workers generally start around $40,577. Normal pay for Interpreters and Translators is $51,914 per year, while highly experienced workers can earn as much as $69,544.
Program Information
ASL/English Interpreting I Proficiency Certificate
Degree Type:
Proficiency CertificateCredits Needed to Graduate:
27