American Sign Language

A Language That Bridges

Recognized by ACTFL as a foreign language taught in K-12 and higher learning education, American Sign Language (ASL) is used prevalently in the Deaf community. While ASL is one of the five most studied foreign languages in the United States, the field of study is rapidly growing in research, cross-cultural studies, teaching, and interpreting.

ASL is a visual language embedded with rich cultural beliefs, systems, and heritage. This program offers students a rich opportunity to learn ASL and prepare for transfer to a four-year institution. These language and culture courses scaffold students' learning experience and heightened awareness to communicate effectively and interact appropriately in the community—the program focus on building sign language competency in an entry-level scope. 

Program Awards

Our American Sign Language programs are included in the Languages and Literature field of study and offer these awards:

Award	Location	Estimated Completion	Program Map
American Sign Language, Certificate of Achievement	Chula Vista	# Semesters

Common Careers

Acquiring ASL and understanding Deaf culture are monumental and vital skills to attain in any vocation working with Deaf and hard of hearing individuals. With this set of skills, one can communicate with Deaf and hard of hearing individuals in a wide array of occupational opportunities and not limited to government, business, medicine, healthcare, education, technology, social services, and public services. 

The average annual salary in this field is $61,750 for occupations like Interpreters and Translators.

Typical Duties

• Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others
  Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
• Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships
  Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
• Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
  Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
• Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge
  Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
• Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events
  Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
• Getting Information
  Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
• Performing for or Working Directly with the Public
  Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
• Documenting/Recording Information
  Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
• Making Decisions and Solving Problems
  Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
• Communicating with People Outside the Organization
  Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
• Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards
  Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
• Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings
  Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
• Thinking Creatively
  Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
• Training and Teaching Others
  Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
• Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work
  Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
• Analyzing Data or Information
  Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
• Developing and Building Teams
  Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
• Working with Computers
  Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
• Assisting and Caring for Others
  Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
• Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others
  Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.