Sign Language Interpreter Preparation Program

Sign Language Interpreter Preparation Program

Degree Type: Associate of Applied Science Degree, AAS, Certificate, CER

Pathway: Technical and Professional Studies

More Options: Classroom Based

Program Length: 6 Semesters

Location: Centennial

Transferability: Non-transferable

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The Fall 2024 application will be available mid-March. If you have questions please contact Ilah Jackson at ilah.jackson@pikespeak.edu 

sign language class outside

Why Choose the Sign Language Interpreter Program at PPSC

PPSC’s sign language interpreter preparation degree program provides you with the highest quality of knowledge and skills for them to become valuable partners with the deaf community. We help you function as emerging professionals in the sign language interpreting field while adhering to deaf culture expectations and professional ethics and practices. You'll have the opportunity to work with members of the deaf community, native ASL users and nationally certified interpreters in nearly every industry, the community and in education.

Upon graduation from PPSC, students can work as pre-certified sign language interpreter in a variety of settings, including: 
• Community interpreting
• Post-secondary Education
• K-12 Education 

sign language students

Your Interpreting Career Starts Here

We prepare you for entry-level employment as a pre-certified sign language interpreter for deaf and hard of hearing individuals. You must apply for admission to the Sign Language Interpreter Preparation Program by submitting a letter of intent. The Sign Language Interpreter Preparation Program is a day only program at the Centennial Campus. In order to be accepted into the program, you must demonstrate proficiency in American Sign Language. This may be accomplished by passing a proficiency test or by completing ASL 1121 with a “C” grade or better and ASL 1122 with a “B” grade or better. Contact the Interpreter Preparation Office for more details about applying.

You must earn a “B” or better in all advanced ASL skills classes to progress to the next level. To enroll in internship (IPP 2081), students must (1) have completed all General Education courses, (2) have an overall GPA of 3.0 or higher, and (3) successfully complete IPP 2025, 2027, 2029 and ASL 2221 with a grade of “B” or better.

General Education courses such as ANT 1001 and ENG 1021 must be completed prior to program admission. Students not meeting a course prerequisite must have permission from the Department Chair to enroll.

 

Sign Language Interpreter Classes You Might Take

A variety of signing-related classes get you on your way.
class 1

Provides the student an opportunity to develop a stronger grasp of American Sign Language (ASL), as well as the cultural features of the language. ASL vocabulary is also increased. The direct experience method is used to further enhance the learning process. This course is a continuation of ASL 122 with more emphasis on expressive skills in signing.

class 2

Introduces the foundations of interpreting, explaining the historical context and the professional requirements for being an interpreter . This course describes the professional considerations of communication variables. the Code of Professional Conduct, certifications, specialized work of interpreters, situational assessment concerns, and interpreting processing theories.

class 3

Provides the student an opportunity to develop consecutive and simultaneous interpreting skills, working from American Sign Language to spoken English

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Program Learning Outcomes

  • Identify tenets of the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf Code of Professional Conduct and apply professional practice to various scenarios
  • Analyze situations to determine modality most appropriate to client language need (interpret/transliterate)
  • Interpret/transliterate for a diverse population (with native and non-native speakers of varying age, race, gender, education, socio-economic status, and ethnicity)
  • Demonstrate preparation and brainstorming skills in preparing for assignments and demonstrate flexibility in adapting to changes that arise during an assignment
  • Adjust to the interpreting/transliterating needs of the consumer based on consumer signing style and/or feedback
  • Identify and apply team interpreting practices during interactive interpreting scenarios
sign language interpreter