Sign Language Interpreting Wright State University

Overview

The Sign Language Interpreting B.S. at Wright State University is specifically designed as a completion programme for professionals who have already obtained an associate degree in the field. This curriculum allows students to advance their linguistic proficiency and cultural understanding while working towards the credentials required for national certification. By integrating advanced theory with practical application, the programme ensures graduates are prepared to serve diverse deaf, hard of hearing, and deaf-blind populations.

Why Sign Language Interpreting at Wright State University?

Choosing this programme provides a vital pathway to professional advancement, as a bachelor's degree is now a mandatory requirement for applying for Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) national certification. Wright State University offers a flexible learning environment with courses delivered through traditional, online, and hybrid methods. To accommodate working professionals, on-campus classes are typically scheduled one evening per week. Students benefit from a collaborative relationship with the local Sorenson VRS office, offering unique opportunities for observational hours in a professional Dayton centre. The curriculum focuses on individual work methods, language issues, and ethical dilemmas, providing immediate feedback from expert faculty and peers.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 11000 per semester
• National fee: USD 11000 per semester
• Local fee: USD 5908 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum consists of 40 semester hours of professional requirements and approximately 24 hours of general education. Modules may include:

• American Sign Language
• Sign Language Interpreting
• Deafness
• Transliterating
• Sign-to-Voice Interpreting
• Senior Capstone

Careers with Sign Language Interpreting

Graduates are prepared for diverse roles across multiple sectors where communication access is essential. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects significant job growth of 19 percent in this field, reflecting a high demand for qualified professionals. Graduates from Wright State University have successfully secured positions in the following areas:

• Educational interpreters in public school systems, colleges, and universities.
• Live call interpreters for Video Relay Service (VRS) companies.
• Staff interpreters or independent contractors for government and healthcare agencies.
• Case managers and deaf services providers for non-profit organisations.
• Legal interpreters for court systems and legal proceedings.
• Freelance interpreters for business conferences, theatre, and mental health settings.
• Academic roles teaching ASL as a foreign language or interpreting courses.

The College of Health, Education, and Human Services provides a dedicated career consultant to help students navigate these paths and connect with industry trends in human services. Many alumni also choose to pursue master's degrees in specialised fields of study following graduation.