American Sign Language
American Sign Language (ASL) is the language of the Deaf community in the United States and much of Canada. ASL is estimated to be the fourth most commonly used language in the United States.
topics Languages
Skills & InterestHelping People
CareersService Professions
Why choose American Sign Language?
Knowing another language and culture will –
- Increase your career opportunities
- Broaden your horizons
- Enrich your life in ways you never imagined
Taking one or two years of a second language can –
- Fulfill university course requirements
- Greatly increase your chances of getting a rewarding and better-paying job
- Enhance travel
- Open up a new world of friendships and understanding
ASL is a fully developed language with its own systems of forming words, sentences and meaning. Learning ASL helps you discover a deeper understanding of Deaf Culture and people.
What will you learn?
Convey information through –
- Manual signs
- Facial expressions
- Body movements
- Postures
- Deaf Culture
What will you do?
- ASL/English Interpretation
- Business
- Education
- Healthcare
- Hospitality & Tourism
- Social Services
Where to Start
-
Have you studied American Sign Language before?
Beginners
If you are a true beginner and have not studied ASL before (or in a very long time) or have had up to two years of ASL in high school, take ASL111.
Intermediate
If you have had three or more years of ASL in high school, or are unsure, contact program chair for ASL diagnostic interview.