Interpreter Preparation, Associate of Applied Science
The Interpreter Preparation program is designed to provide students with entry-level skills in sign language interpreting. The mission of the program is to prepare students for employment as American Sign Language/English interpreters working with deaf and hard of hearing communities. The program of study explores fundamental concepts, theory, and practical skill of interpreting focused on developing ethical, professional, and reflective interpreter practitioners by utilizing current best practices and technology. The program engages the local deaf, hard of hearing, and interpreting communities in partnership to promote authentic and immersive learning opportunities for students. The foundation from which we educate is based on admiration and respect for the American deaf community as a rich, diverse cultural and linguistic minority who value American Sign Language as their primary language.
For entry into the major, students must first meet with the program coordinator. The interpreting degree is intended for students who are already fluent in American Sign Language. Students who are still learning American Sign Language may take ASL course work at CCBC through the AA in American Sign Language and Deaf Culture degree program.
For new students with prior skills in American Sign Language (ASL), the department offers an assessment, for a fee, that may allow students to test out of some or all of the ASL courses and demonstrate fluency in ASL. Experienced students should contact the Interpreter Preparation office at 443-840-4274 no later than two weeks prior to the start of the semester to set up an appointment. The American Sign Language Proficiency Interview (ASLPI) is a program requirement. The ASLPI is a nationally recognized tool to measure language aptitude. Students are required to take the ASPLI and score at least 2.0 prior to entering the major. Students must obtain a minimum score of a 2+ prior to the final course INTR 241 Practicum.
Program objectives
Upon successful completion of this degree, students will be able to:
- utilize a variety of registers in American Sign Language to function effectively as interpreters for the deaf and hard of hearing;
- assess their own effectiveness as interpreters in a variety of settings;
- interpret simultaneously and consecutively in a variety of low-risk settings;
- display professional and ethical conduct as interpreters in culturally diverse settings; and
- execute professional expression in spoken and written English and ASL to various audiences, including clients and other professionals.
