Utah Valley University

What you'll study

Students progress through sequential ASL language courses while learning about the social, historical and cultural contexts of Deaf communities. Applied interpreting courses focus on consecutive and simultaneous interpreting skills, ethics, professional practice, and strategies for domain-specific interpreting (education, healthcare, legal). Coursework also covers linguistics concepts relevant to signed languages, research methods, and practicum or fieldwork to gain supervised real-world interpreting experience.

Entry requirements

Admittance follows standard undergraduate admission to the university. Program-specific expectations typically include completion of introductory ASL coursework or placement demonstrating language readiness; students without prior ASL study usually begin with baseline language classes. Progression into upper-level interpreting courses commonly requires demonstration of ASL proficiency and faculty or program approval; transfer students should consult program advisors about credit evaluation and placement.

Career prospects

Graduates commonly pursue careers as sign language interpreters in K–12 and postsecondary education, healthcare and mental-health settings, courts and legal services, media and community organizations. Other pathways include roles in Deaf education support, advocacy and accessibility coordination, ASL instruction, or continuing to certification programs and graduate study in interpreting, linguistics, or special education.

Scholarships & funding angle

Many institutions offer merit and need-based scholarships open to Deaf Studies students; prospective applicants should search university-wide scholarships, department or college awards, and community or professional association funding for interpreters. Additional funding sources include work-study, assistantships for qualified students in advanced semesters, and grants or stipends tied to practicum placements—check with the program office and financial aid for guidance on application processes and eligibility.