American Sign Language, Deaf Studies and Interpreter Preparation

Program Overview

The American Sign Language, Deaf Studies, and Interpreter Preparation program offers a comprehensive education on language, culture, and many other aspects that make up the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community as well as the ethics and regulations of the interpreting profession.

The Deaf Studies certificate is a prerequisite to the Interpreting program and is great for those who want to learn more about the language and culture of the Deaf and the Hard of Hearing communities. Upon completion of this certificate, students can serve Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals in certain settings, or decide to apply for the Interpreter Preparation program.

Working between people who use English and American Sign Language, interpreters utilize special skills to make communication accessible. ASL/English interpreters’ knowledge in language, culture, interpreting theory, and applicable laws play an important role in effective communication around the country and in a wide variety of settings.

Upon completion of the Interpreter Preparation program, students will be prepared to apply for an Arizona* Interpreter license and/or sit for the Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment (EIPA), the Board for Evaluation of Interpreters (BEI), and/or the written portion of the National Interpreter Certification (NIC) of the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID).

Enroll now, and make it happen today!

*May apply to other states’ requirements. Students at any Maricopa Community College may need to complete courses at more than one of our colleges.

Students at any Maricopa Community College may need to complete courses at more than one of our colleges.

Why Phoenix College?

Those hoping to study American Sign Language (ASL) and work in the Deaf and Hard of Hearing communities can turn to Phoenix College — offering the only Deaf Studies and Interpreter Preparation Programs (IPP) in Maricopa County.

PC offers an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) and Certificate of Completion (CCL) in Interpreter Preparation, as well as a CCL in Deaf Studies. All ASL instructors are Deaf, offering a language immersion approach, and all IPP instructors are nationally certified interpreters.  PC students may also use the ASL/IPP Lab — the only ASL Lab facility in Arizona that is available to students and the public studying for the interpreter exams.

Next Steps

Discuss a schedule with an academic advisor inside the Hannelly Enrollment Center (HC) at our historic, centrally located campus. For more information on these programs, you may also contact our office (602.285.7190) or attend one of our information sessions!