New adult programs in communication and sign language interpreting introduced
Goshen College has launched two new career building programs for adult students, in communication and sign language interpreting that will begin in the fall of 2021.
Sign Language Interpreting Major
About
The Sign Language Interpreting major at Goshen College will introduce you to the rich language and culture of the Deaf community. You will learn American Sign Language (ASL) and interpreting techniques, along with an understanding of Deaf culture, and the role of interpreters.
Learn to Interpret Between Deaf and Hearing Communities in Diverse Settings
Sign language interpreting is a dynamic and exciting profession that allows students to be a communication bridge between members of Deaf and hearing communities in places as diverse as hospitals, schools, courtrooms, concerts, plays, or sporting events.
As professional interpreters, you could work in a staff position at a school or agency or be self-employed, setting your own schedule. Sign language interpreting is one of the most challenging and rewarding careers you could choose!
On campus you will have many opportunities to practice interpreting in low risk situation such as:
- chapel/convocation
- classes – no Deaf student, practice only
- club events and meetings
- informational meetings
Learn American Sign Language (ASL)
The sign language interpreting major at Goshen College will introduce you American Sign Language (ASL). We then use those language skills to teach you how to interpret between spoken English and American Sign Language or signed English.
Our sign language interpreting program’s small class sizes will allow you to work closely with your professors and peers in a rigorous but supportive setting. With this support, you will be well prepared to begin your interpreting career and gain state licensure.
Gain the Interpreting Skills Needed for Rewarding Careers
In our sign language interpreting program, you’ll learn ASL and interpreting techniques, along with an understanding of professional conduct, and the role of interpreters in community and educational settings.
You will also find many opportunities to practice your ASL skills outside the classroom as you attend various events, including:
- Workshops
- Deaf church
- Deaf sporting events
- Other local community events
Internship
The capstone for the SLI program is a 12 week internship where you will work alongside professional interpreters through a school or interpreting agency.
Learn more about our distinctive capstone internships.
Would You Rather Teach Than Interpret?
Would you like to work with the Deaf community in another capacity?
Our Deaf Studies major will prepare you to work in an educational setting as a tutor, teaching assistant, or in an after school program. Or you may prepare to work in the community as a case manager, job coach, or advocate.
And if you would like to be licensed to teach ASL you can double major in Deaf Studies and Secondary Education.
Become an Interpreter with our help!
If you want to become an interpreter, the sign language interpreting major at Goshen College is the perfect place to start! We’ll introduce you to the rich language and culture of the Deaf community and give you the skills you need to succeed in this rewarding career.
Fill out the form below to learn more! Financial aid options are available for those who qualify.
News & Events
Emma Zuercher ’23
Hear from Emma Zuercher, a student in the Sustainability Leadership Semester (SLS) fall 2020 cohort, about how the SLS is an immersive language experience. She described how the SLS allowed her to focus on the nuances of the English language in a way she never previously encountered.
Virtual Interpreting: Sign language seniors regroup after COVID-19
In their final semester at Goshen College, 12 senior sign language interpreting majors are gaining experience in an area they hadn’t expected before the spread of coronavirus: online interpreting.
Stats
12
Number of weeks students spend completing their senior ASL internship
100%
of graduates from the past 4 years who chose to work in the interpreting field found a job within 3 months of graduation
100%
of graduates from the classes of 2014, 2015 and 2016 are employed in a job related to sign language.
90%
of GC interpreting students pass the written portion of the national certification exam
Learn more about Goshen College's exceptional academic outcomes and national rankings.
Major & Minor Options
We offer a several majors and minors options in the Sign Language field. You don’t need to choose one today (just inquire about Sign Language below), but you will be asked to select a particular major/minor when you apply to Goshen College.
Sign Language Interpreting Major
The Sign Language Interpreting major focuses specifically on how to become a professional sign language interpreter. You will study ASL and Deaf History, Ethics, as well as classes to learn how to interpret in general and also classes that specialize in Medical Interpreting, Sign to Voice Interpreting, and Transliterating (focusing on Educational Interpreting). There are also elective classes related to Performance Interpreting and Specialty Areas of Interpreting (Legal, Mental Health, DeafBlind, Atypical Signers).
Deaf Studies Major
The Deaf studies major at Goshen College will introduce you to the rich language and culture of the Deaf community. You will then use your American Sign Language skills through one of two tracks: a social work focus or an education focus.
American Sign Language Minor
A minor in ASL is great to pair with many majors. By studying ASL you would be able to sign directly to any Deaf students or clients you might work with as a teacher, accountant, social worker, nurse and many other majors.
Students & Alumni
American Sign Language Major
Sam Heberling '15
Sam Heberling, an American Sign Language Interpreting graduate from Mishawaka, Indiana, was active on campus as a leader in the ASL club and on the women's volleyball team.
Sam's story
American Sign Language, social work
Mary O'Connell '19
It’s not every day that a Goshen College student’s internship has them opening for a pop music icon in front of thousands of people. For Mary O’Connell, a senior sign language interpreting and social work double major, this s
Mary's story
Professor of Sign Language Interpreting
Colleen Geier
Colleen Geier has taught American Sign Language and interpreting at other colleges but has never experienced the "wonderful cooperative learning environment" that she finds at Goshen College.
Colleen's story
Student
Ashley Valencia ’24
Ashley Valencia ’24 found a sense of belonging and an excellent nursing program at Goshen
Ashley's story
student
Emma Zuercher '23
Emma Zuercher ’23 shaped the way she approaches interpreting, art, relationships and all aspects of her life.
Emma's story
American Sign Language Interpreting
Armando Nunez '16
Armando Nunez was a student with two chief interests: American Sign Language and tennis. When he came to Goshen to pursue both, he learned quickly that GC students learn much more outside of their major and sport.
Armando's storyRequest Information
Faculty & Staff
View Profile
Colleen Geier
Program Director and Professor of Sign Language Interpreting
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(574) 535-7467
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Administration Building 32 (Map)
Damon Johnson
Adjunct Professor of Sign Language Interpreting
View Profile
Diana Boussom
Instructor of American Sign Language
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(574) 535-7470
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Administration Building 34B (Map)