Interpreter Preparation Program Associate of Applied Science

About The Program

Program Mission & Description

Program Mission: The Interpreter Preparation Program (IPP) is rigorous and provides a foundation for graduates to meet the high standards essential in the field of sign language interpreting. This program provides high quality American Sign Language (ASL) and sign language interpreting instruction, in a rich learning environment combining classroom instruction, experiential and self-directed learning. We are dedicated to preparing professional interpreters who are competent, ethical, and life-long learners, and promote collaborative involvement as allies within the culturally and linguistically diverse interpreting and Deaf communities.

Program Description: This program prepares students for entry-level employment as sign language interpreters. Sign language interpretation involves bridging the communication gap between Deaf and hearing consumers effectively, accurately, and impartially.

Students must apply for this program through the Interpreter Preparation Program office.

Standing for the National Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf certification examination requires a BA/BS degree. Students who do not already have a BA/BS degree, may take advantage of three articulation agreements currently in place: Gallaudet University, Regis University and Sienna Heights University.

Learn more about gainful employment

What You Will Learn

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, you will be able to demonstrate:

A culturally appropriate personal philosophy, including ethics and values, which will guide interpreting work.
Knowledge and understanding of the values and social norms of the diverse Deaf Community and the source of their cultural beliefs, experiences and languages.
Knowledge and understanding of the values and social norms of the diverse mainstream society and the source of their beliefs, experiences and languages.
The ability to consecutively, simultaneously and accurately interpret from ASL to spoken English.
The ability to consecutively, simultaneously and accurately interpret from spoken English to ASL.
The ability to consecutively, simultaneously and accurately transliterate from spoken English to CASE (Conceptually Accurate Signed English).
The ability to consecutively, simultaneously and accurately transliterate from CASE (Conceptually Accurate Signed English) to English.
The ability to analyze one's own interpreting work, the work of others, giving and accepting constructive feedback while able to analyze own internal biases.
Effective expressive and receptive skills in both ASL and spoken English.
Knowledge and understanding of power, privilege and oppression for addressing cultural differences while interpreting and as allies to the deaf community.

Career Opportunities

As Deaf people pursue new fields, enter new professions and take on diverse careers, the need for qualified interpreters continues to grow. American Sign Language (ASL)/English interpreting continues to be a burgeoning career path.

Interpreters work in private practice (freelance), in-house, on staff, or are contacted by agencies that provide interpreting services.

AAS in Interpreter Preparation

My Academic Plan

My Academic Plans (MAPs) are designed by faculty to guide you toward program completion. You should complete courses in the recommended order provided below and work with an academic advisor to adjust your plan based on your scheduling needs.