American Sign Language English Interpretation BA
- Major
- BA
- Hybrid
- In-Person
- Greeley
4 Years
Program Overview
UNC’s ASL-English Interpretation program trains you to become a professional interpreter in schools or community settings. You’ll learn interpreting skills through hands-on practice, real projects, and an internship. Graduate job-ready in three semesters and be eligible to take certification exams within a year.
Choose from a mostly online format, with two required summer weeks in Greeley, or study on campus. After graduation, you’ll be ready to interpret in schools, healthcare and community settings.
What you’ll do as an ASL-English Interpretation major:
- Build advanced ASL and English communication skills
- Learn interpreting theory and apply it in real-world settings
- Complete a supervised internship before graduation
- Work closely with Deaf and interpreting communities
- Be prepared to pursue national certification within 12 months of graduation
Total Credits: 120 (including general education + major courses)
Required Major Credits: 72
What you’ll learn:
- Advanced American Sign Language skills and deep understanding of Deaf culture
- Interpreting theory, professional ethics, and hands-on practice in real-world settings
- Specialized skills through courses like Introduction to School Interpreting and Interpreting in Community Settings
- Professional readiness through a senior practicum that prepares you for certification exams and your first job
Degree Requirements – American Sign Language and Interpretation BA
- American Sign Language Minor
Want to add American Sign Language skills to your degree? This 18-24 credit minor complements any major and helps you connect with Deaf culture in meaningful ways. While the minor won’t qualify you as an interpreter or teacher, it opens doors in education, healthcare, social work and beyond. Plus, it’s great groundwork if you’re thinking about becoming a professional interpreter down the road.
Learn More – American Sign Language and Interpretation Minor
This plan is a recommended schedule to complete this bachelor’s degree in 4 years. Courses are subject to availability. Students must consult with their major advisor to receive information on any additional graduation requirements and course sequence guidance.
Four-Year Plan – American Sign Language and Interpretation BA
Two Ways to Earn Your ASL-English Interpretation Degree
Extended Campus (Mostly Online)
- Take courses online during fall and spring semesters
- Two summer sessions are also online with a two-week, on-campus immersion for ASL skill development
- Flexible format for students across the U.S. and worldwide
- Same CCIE-accredited curriculum and faculty as the on-campus program
On-Campus (Traditional)
- Attend classes in person at UNC’s Greeley, Colorado campus
- Learn face-to-face from Deaf ASL instructors and certified interpreters
- Full campus experience with access to student resources and organizations
- Ideal for students who prefer a traditional college setting
Why Choose ASL–English Interpretation at UNC?
300+ Hours in the Field
Complete 300 hours of practicum, including a 120-hour internship at a national partner site.
Launch Your Interpreting Career
Built on 34 Entry-to-Practice Competencies, the curriculum ensures you’re ready for professional certification and diverse interpreting careers.
Nationally Accredited
Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Interpreter Education (CCIE), ensuring high standards and professional recognition.
Learn ASL Online (Non-Degree Courses)
UNC offers ASL I–IV courses fully online to help you build conversational skills and explore Deaf culture. Perfect if you want language credit, are preparing for the ASLEI bachelor’s degree, or just want to learn ASL for personal or professional growth.
- Fully online with weekly live sessions + ASL Bear Lab practice
- Taught by qualified Deaf faculty, 3 credits per course
- Offered fall, spring and summer
- Open to degree-seeking and non-degree-seeking students
American Sign Language Club
Connect With Other Signers
The ASL Club meets weekly in a voice-off setting to practice signing, build friendships and have fun. Monthly events are ASL- and English-friendly. All UNC students are welcome, no matter your major or experience level.
Email: aslclubunc@gmail.com
Master’s in Teaching ASL
UNC’s Teaching American Sign Language (TASL) Master of Arts program prepares you to teach ASL as a world language. You’ll learn from Deaf faculty and earn your degree in a program focused on pedagogy, not ASL language acquisition.
Two Degree Options:
-
MA in Teaching ASL – Teach in college or some private K–12 schools
-
MA + Licensure – Qualifies you to teach in public K–12 schools and earn your Colorado teaching license
Note: ASL fluency is required for admission.
A teacher communicates using American Sign Language, connecting with a student in conversation
Have Questions? We’re Here to Help!
American Sign Language & Interpreting Studies
We prepare culturally and linguistically competent interpreters, teachers, and users of American Sign Language.
- 970-351-1060
- McKee Hall 525