The American Sign Language Interpreting (ASLI) program provides rich opportunities to learn American Sign Language (ASL) from signers and certified interpreters. Students develop proficiency in ASL and interpreting during the program which includes formal classroom instruction, small group practice and practical experiences.
Students take sign language courses on sign comprehension, production, grammar and non-verbal communication techniques and are introduced to the Deaf community from a cultural perspective. Courses focus on learning ASL and the culture of the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community.
ASL is a unique, visual language of the Deaf community and is the fastest-growing language offered at colleges. Communication is essential for people to express their language regardless of the modality.
Admission Requirements
The ASLI Associate in Applied Science degree program begins annually in the spring. It is cohort-based with limited enrollment. Students submitting an application to the ASLI Program must have completed a minimum of seven ASL or ASLI courses. View the list of admission requirements.
Determine Your Path
Interpreters work in a variety of settings including education, offices, courts, hospitals and conferences.
Whether you are preparing for a career in ASLI, planning to transfer to a four-year baccalaureate-granting institution or updating your skills, College of DuPage has the right program for you. We offer:
- Dedicated instructors with years of professional experience.
- Instruction utilizing our state-of-the-art equipment and top-notch facilities.
- Affordable courses to help you achieve success without creating overwhelming debt or draining your savings account.
- Small class sizes to ensure you receive personalized attention.
Associate in Applied Science
The American Sign Language Interpreting, Associate in Applied Science degree prepares students for a career working as a sign language interpreter.
The degree is a combination of the ASL Certificate, the ASLI Certificate and general education coursework. This program is considered a full-time program if taking 12+ credit hours per semester. Successful completion of this degree will prepare students to take in the Illinois Deaf and Hard of Hearing Commission licensure exam, and/or the Boys Town Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment, which are required to be employed in Illinois. In order to take the National Interpreting Certificate (NIC) Exam, completion of a Bachelor’s Degree is required. For more details regarding certification and licensure examinations, visit RID.org.
This is a selective admissions program. Students must officially apply and be admitted to this program before they can begin coursework.
American Sign Language
The American Sign Language (ASL) Certificate prepares the student with a foundation of American Sign Language and increased understanding of Deaf culture. This 21 credit certificate provides a sequential progression of language proficiency, grammatical and analytical skills, and engagement with the Deaf and HOH Community, as well as a preparation for interpreting.
This certificate does not have a selective admissions process. Students can simply follow the seven-course sequence provided here. Students who successfully complete this certificate may apply for limited enrollment in the ASLI Certificate or Degree Program.
COD Stories
“If you do not know where you belong, COD will guide you and help you find yourself and your calling. The ASL Interpreting program is phenomenal and provides you with so many opportunities." - Courtney Cechini
Courtney's COD StoryCOD Stories
"I loved learning ASL and interacting with the Deaf community, and COD helped prepare me to pass the American Sign Language Interpreter state licensure exam." - Rosemary Montalbano
Rosemary's COD StoryCOD Stories
“For those who are considering the ASL Interpreting program, get ready for the best of the best. Learning a language is never easy, but it’s a challenge with a grand prize at the end. This program consists of the most resourceful and genuine professors who will bring the best out of you."- John Manzano
John's COD StoryCOD Stories
“I did research on a few interpreting programs and decided on College of DuPage for a number reasons. I liked that COD was close to home. COD was affordable. Lastly, but most importantly, COD’s Interpreting program has a deaf director and deaf staff. When learning a language, it is important to learn from native users.- Carly Gaerlan
Carly's COD StoryGet Started Today
The first step to getting started in the ASLI program is to review program admission information.
Academic and Career Pathways give you a roadmap to achieving your career goals. Follow a pathway based on your degree that outlines which classes you need to take and when so you graduate on time or move on to the next phase in your career.
American Sign Language Interpreting Degree and Certificates
- Describe the linguistic importance of American Sign Language.
- List historical events and current movements that influence society’s views of deafness and the Deaf community.
- Demonstrate the ability to comprehend vocabulary, grammar, and non-verbal techniques, and apply them at a conversational pace.
- Demonstrate an increased interaction with the Deaf community through usage of American Sign Language (ASL).
- Demonstrate an advanced level of flow and cohesion in signing and voicing ability.
- Identify the application of theory to practice in fieldwork experiences.
- Demonstrate self-assessment of interpreting work.
- Demonstrate professional behavior, decision-making, and demeanor.
Career Information
Explore careers based on your interest, location and salary range or view top occupations by income.
Signing Circle Event
Signing Circle is a new monthly event for practicing ASL receptive skills, increasing understanding of deaf culture and connecting with others interested in American Sign Language. During the event deaf speakers will share their life stories in American Sign Language and invite discussion. Discussion is in American Sign Language and English interpretation will be provided for non-signing participants. The event is free and open to the public.
