University of South Florida

Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in ASL Interpreting at the University of South Florida equips students with essential American Sign Language skills and a solid foundation in interpreting theory, ethics, and professional practices. This program prepares you to facilitate effective communication between Deaf and hearing communities in various contexts, including educational, community, and professional settings.

What you'll study

Core learning areas

• Development of American Sign Language (ASL) and applied language skills
• Interpreting practice with a focus on professional preparation
• Understanding Deaf culture and community perspectives
• Ethics and decision-making in the interpreting profession
• ASL linguistics and analysis to enhance accuracy and fluency

Example course topics include:

• Culture and Diversity in Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD)
• ASL Interpreting
• American Sign Language
• The Interpreting Profession
• Deaf Culture
• ASL Narratives – Analysis, Comprehension, and Fluency

Additional programme components may involve:

• Professional ethics and responsibilities of interpreters
• Practical interpreting activities across diverse communication contexts
• Language analysis and comprehension exercises to improve interpreting precision

Tip: Your final study plan may incorporate additional electives and prerequisite courses based on your academic background and the university's current curriculum.

Entry requirements

While specific GRE or GMAT requirements are not outlined for this programme, and minimum GPA specifications are not available, applicants should prepare the following:

• $30 application fee
• Academic transcripts
• SAT or ACT scores
• English language proficiency score, if applicable

It is advisable to confirm specific entry requirements with the university's admissions office.

Career prospects

Upon completion of the ASL Interpreting degree, graduates may have various career opportunities within educational institutions, community organizations, and professional environments. The program prepares students for roles that require effective communication between Deaf and hearing individuals, positioning them for a rewarding career in the interpreting field.

Graduates may also be eligible to apply for work permits, allowing them to work in the country where they studied, subject to visa regulations and requirements at the time of graduation.