American Sign Language

American Sign Language Associate of Arts

The major in American Sign Language provides a linguistic exploration of the various components of ASL and an in-depth examination of the culture of deaf people. The objective of the program is to provide students with a foundation for achieving fluency and the opportunity to transfer to a four-year institution. With additional training, employment opportunities include interpreting, teaching, and social service. If transferring to an institution other than UC or CSU, students should check with the receiving institution to ensure transferability of ASL courses as foreign language credit. The AA degree is designed to provide students with multiple career pathways, including interpreting, social services, and teaching, among others. Upon completion of graduation requirements and the required degree courses with at least a “C” or “P” grade in each course, the student will be eligible for an Associate of Arts degree.

Program Learning Outcomes

• 1. Upon successful completion of the program, the student will be able to create discourse clearly and effectively in ASL.

• 2. Upon successful completion of the program, the student will be able to synthesize their knowledge of the language, culture, and history of American Deaf people and the International Deaf Community.

• 3. Upon successful completion of the program, the student will be able to explain their knowledge of Deaf Culture as allies of the Deaf Community.

• 4. Upon successful completion of the program, the student will be able to produce prosodic articulators, including, but not limited to, non-manual markers, mouth morphemes, use of space, rhythm, and emphasis.

Program Requirements