Welcome

American Sign Language-English interpreters are in demand locally, regionally, and nationally. A qualified American Sign Language-English interpreter enjoys a rewarding, highly flexible career. This field is expanding and continued growth in the job market is projected.

Program Overview

The American River College (ARC) ASL-English Interpreting (ASLEI) Program provides an integrated series of coursework in American Sign Language (ASL) and ASL-English interpretation to prepare students for entry-level positions. A foundation in ASL discourse and interpretation is established through theoretical models. The emphasis is on the practical application of these models and knowledge in the areas of human relations, language skills, interpreting skills, and professionalism. The general education requirements complete the sequence of coursework to attain the A.A. degree.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

• discuss and apply knowledge of linguistic, cross-cultural, and interpretation theories.

• demonstrate communicative competency in English and in ASL through effective communication in a variety of settings with Deaf and hearing participants of varying age, gender, and ethnicity.

• analyze, identify, and apply personal, professional, and ethical decisions in a manner consistent with theoretical models and standard professional practices that align in service with the goal of the setting and Deaf and hearing participants.

• demonstrate interpersonal competencies that foster effective communication and productive collaboration with colleagues, Deaf and hearing consumers, employers, and team members in an interpreting context.

• formulate effective interpretations both consecutively and simultaneously following a practice profession framework.

• develop an on-going professional action plan integrating interactions with Deaf related organizations, connections with interpreter employers, and the implications of certification on the provision of interpreting.