Become a Certified American Sign Language Interpreter
The deaf communication studies: interpreter education associate in applied science (AAS) program equips you with American Sign Language (ASL) interpreting skills, covering theory, practice and cultural knowledge.
You'll study the theory of interpretation as you develop your ASL and English skills. You'll also practice interpreting a broad range of topics, learn deaf history and culture, and expand your knowledge about professional ethics.
Graduates of the program are qualified for entry-level sign language interpreter jobs.
What is ASL Interpreter Education at St. Louis Community College?
Deaf Communication Studies: Interpreter Education involves conveying spoken English language into American Sign Language and vice versa.
ASL interpreters facilitate communication between deaf and hearing individuals, ensuring effective understanding in various settings, including education, health care, legal proceedings and more.
STLCC's deaf communication studies: interpreter education AAS program specifically promotes competency in sight translation, and both voice-to-sign and sign-to-voice interpretation and transliteration.
What Can You Do with a Deaf Communication Studies: Interpreter Education Associate in Applied Science Degree?
Before graduating, you can obtain a student license to begin applying your skills in real-world situations. Graduates will be prepared to pass the Missouri Interpreter Certification System Test of English Proficiency and the interpreter certification basic performance evaluation. These certifications position you for entry-level professional interpreter jobs where you can work in settings such as schools, health care facilities, courts and community events.
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?