American Sign Language - English Interpreting
Associate in Applied Science (AAS) Degree, Certificate
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Be an ally for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community. Be an ASL-English Interpreter (ASL-EI). We are the only Iowa college offering this degree, and you can take courses in-person or complete most of the program online. Get your degree, sit for certification exams, and launch your new career.
What You Learn as a ASL-EI Major
Learn how to speak with your hands and body! ASL uses the shape and movement of your hands and body — as well as facial expressions — to express the message. Complete the majority of your coursework online with classes in ASL, cultural knowledge, ethical decision-making, and interpreting. Complete two in-person workshops each semester and a supervised practicum. Be mentored by a licensed interpreter as you provide services in schools and the community, and through video relay sites.
What Can I Do With an ASL-EI Degree?
Meet and interact with people from every walk of life. Be the voice for someone, whether it’s accurately conveying symptoms to a doctor or helping someone understand their rights in court. Many of our graduates currently work in schools, hospitals, courtrooms, business offices, at conferences, concerts, and as freelance interpreters. You can work in person as well as find careers working online through Video Relay Services or Virtual Reality Interpreting.
A Solid Foundation
American Sign Language
Express yourself!
American Sign Langauge
Learn conversational ASL. Study values and beliefs within American Deaf culture.
Interpreting
The meaning of
Interpreting
Learn and practice ASL and English interpreting skills using ethical decision making.
Practicum
At work
Practicum
Apply your skills in actual interpreting situations.
Practical Issues
Behind the scenes
Practical Issues
Study the ethical considerations, specialized vocabulary, and theories of team interpreting.
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Ready to apply?
This is a rewarding career. Employment in the ASL-EI is field is projected to rise 24% over the next decade. Skilled interpreters are in high-demand, and they enjoy high salaries and flexible work environments.
The ASL-EI degree is an advanced standing program. Complete the Deaf Studies Certificate first, then apply for the ASL-EI program. You can complete the certificate in two terms. See the courses you will study.
Our ASL-EI program prepares you for the following nationally recognized certification exams:
- Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment (EIPA)
- The Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) National Interpreter Certification (NIC)
- Board of Evaluation of Interpreters (BEI) certification
Licensure requirements for Sign Language Interpreters vary from state to state and often involve more than degree completion. Graduates who apply for licensure may need to satisfy other requirements, such as passing one of the national certification examinations to obtain certification from a national agency, completing an application, or paying a fee. Some states offer multiple pathways to achieve licensure.
EICC makes every effort to verify the information provided on requirements for licensure is accurate and up-to-date, however, these requirements are subject to change at any time. Students who will be seeking licensure as a Sign Language Interpreter are strongly encouraged to review the licensure requirements at the associated website, linked below where available, for the state in which they intend to practice.
States where program meets the educational requirements for licensure:
- Iowa, Iowa Board of Sign Language Interpreters and Transliterators
- Illinois, Illinois Deaf and Hard of Hearing Commission
View list of states that are undetermined as to whether the program meets state requirements.
Embark on a journey of communication and connection.
Connect with the Deaf Community
Unleash the power of connection. EICC ASL-EI students get to engage with Deaf individuals at various community events. Immerse yourself in transformative experiences while expanding your perspective and honing ASL skills. Embrace inclusivity, celebrate diversity, and foster meaningful relationships that last a lifetime.
Attend in person, online, and on-site
EICC the only college in Iowa where you can earn this degree, we’ve made the program convenient, too. Take courses in-person or complete most of the program online. Gather with your classmates at two in-person campus workshops each semester and get on-the-job experience during a supervised practicum.
Your Degree = Success
Complete your education in two years. Qualify for better jobs. Earn a higher salary. Enjoy a better quality of life. The benefits of an associate's degree are impressive and wide-ranging.
Explore the value of an associate’s degreeEmployment and Wage Outlook
How EICC Fits Your Goals
Maybe the 4-year where you plan to transfer has added a new major or perhaps you discovered a new career field. We're here to guide and support you, so let us know. Keep in regular contact with your EICC advisor and lean on these services and resources, too.
Contact Admissions
Contact the admissions representative from the college you plan to attend. If you’re not sure, you may contact any rep. Each can answer questions about any college or program.
Office Hours: Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
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American Sign Language - English Interpreting: Locations
Scott Community College
500 Belmont Rd.
Bettendorf, IA 52722
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