Become a Certified American Sign Language Interpreter
Want to turn your love of communication into a career? The Deaf Communication Studies: Interpreter Education associate in applied science (AAS) degree gives you the skills to become a certified American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter. This program teaches you ASL and English fluency, interpreting techniques, Deaf culture and professional ethics.
You’ll practice real-world interpreting, learn about Deaf history and communities and gain the confidence to work in various settings. Graduates are ready for entry-level interpreting jobs or can continue their education at a four-year college.
What is ASL Interpreter Education at St. Louis Community College?
The Deaf Communication Studies: Interpreter Education program teaches you how to translate between spoken English and ASL, helping Deaf and hearing individuals communicate clearly in schools, health care, courts and other community settings.
The program focuses on hands-on learning in:
- Voice-to-sign interpretation
- Sign-to-voice interpretation
- Sight translation
- Transliteration
You’ll also explore Deaf culture, history and professional ethics, building the knowledge and confidence needed for entry-level ASL interpreter roles or further study.
What Can You Do with a Deaf Communication Studies: Interpreter Education Associate in Applied Science Degree?
While you’re still in the program, you can earn a student license, giving you the chance to apply your interpreting skills in real-world settings under supervision. This experience helps you build confidence and prepare for professional work before you graduate.
After completing the program, you’ll be ready to take important industry certifications, including:
- Missouri Interpreter Certification System Test of English Proficiency
- Interpreter Certification Basic Performance Evaluation
With these credentials, you can start a meaningful career in Deaf services, communication access and ASL interpretation in Missouri.
AAS in Deaf Communication Studies: Interpreter Education
- Degree offered: Associate in applied science
- Locations Florissant Valley
- Hours to complete: 60
- Program contact name: Daniel J. Betzler
- Program contact email: dbetzler@stlcc.edu
- This program meets the educational requirements for state licensure in the following states: Missouri and Illinois. Students interested in pursuing licensure in a different state should contact the program coordinator for more information.
Tuition for district residents is $122 per credit hour for in-district students. Find out more about our straightforward and low-cost tuition structure.
Program Prerequisites
To prepare for this AAS program, you must complete the Certificate of Specialization in American Sign Language with a B average or better.
If you already know ASL, a deaf instructor will evaluate your skills and place you at the appropriate level.
Why You Should Choose STLCC's Deaf Communication Studies: Interpreter Education Program
Total Immersion with Certified Faculty
All faculty members who teach American Sign Language classes are deaf and teach in a total immersion format: no voice is permitted in these classes. All interpreting faculty are certified and licensed interpreters.
Schedules Built for Your Busy Life
Fitting a quality education into your busy life is easy with the flexibility STLCC offers:
- Day and evening
- Full or part time
Graduate With Little or No Debt
We believe cost should never be a barrier to achieving your potential. Save over $4,700 per year with tuition that's one-third lower than other local institutions. Plus, we'll help you navigate scholarship options and financial aid.
Stackable Credentials
Stackable credentials help you level up your career opportunities without investing a large amount of time and resources. You can stack a series of traditional and nontraditional credentials, including degrees, certificates and more.
STLCC. What's your reason?