Saint Paul College Programs

NOTE: Applications are still being accepted for the Fall 2008 Sign Language Interpreter/Transliterator Program and the American Sign Language Studies Certificate Program.

Sign Language Interpreter/Transliterator

Program Documents

Program Brochure
Sign Language Interpreter/Transliterator AAS Degree Program Guide Sheet

Program Overview

This program prepares individuals to work as interpreter/transliterators facilitating and mediating communication between Deaf/Hard of Hearing and hearing people. Interpreters must convey accurate messages, feelings and attitudes of participants, whether those messages are spoken or signed. Above average competency in English and strong American Sign Language skills are necessary. A strong academic background and traits that demonstrate maturity, responsibility, flexibility, and the ability to work well under pressure, are assets. Students experience a variety of learning environments, including classroom work, laboratory practice and field placement. Students will be required to have both in-class and out-of-class experiences with members of the Deaf Community to further develop ASL fluency and cultural awareness.

Program Requirements:
• Sign Language Interpreter/Transliterator AAS Degree

What You'll Learn

• Theoretical, ethical, cultural, and practical knowledge of the interpreting field needed to pass the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) Generalist Written Exam.
• Major linguistic features of ASL and English and the major cultural features of Deaf and non-Deaf communities.
• Cognitive processing skills to effectively interpret between English and American Sign Language and to transliterate between spoken English and a signed form of English.
• Different modes of interpreting/transliterating (i.e. consecutive and simultaneous) and to choose the appropriate mode in a given setting.
• Accurate and appropriate transfer of a message from a source language into a target language from the point of view of style, culture, and the linguistic needs of the consumers.
• Techniques and logistics in order to manage the setting.

Career Settings

• Education: K-12, college/university
• Community service organizations
• Human/Social services agencies
• Vocational Rehabilitation

Potential Employers

• K-12 school districts
• Colleges and universities
• Minnesota Department of Human Services
• Minnesota Department of Economic Security
• Minnesota Employment Center

Additional Benefits

• Learn from faculty with expertise in area(s) of teaching interpreting/transliterating.
• Acquire knowledge of community resources that serve and/or are run by Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and Deaf/Blind people.
• Apply interpreting/transliterating skills and professional responsibilities during a supervised internship experience.
• Enhance knowledge and appreciation of multicultural features of society.
• Learn the culture and history of Deaf people to better facilitate communication between Deaf and Hearing individuals.
• Complete a four-year degree through the Sign Language Interpreter/Transliterator major program articulation with Metropolitan State University.