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Sign Language Interpretation

CREDENTIAL: Diploma
START DATES

Learn to become a sign language interpreter. Facilitate the communication between hearing and Deaf and hard of hearing communities using American Sign Language (ASL).

Tuition: 7716*
Credential: Diploma
Length: 2 0 years
Hours: Full-time
Delivery: Class-based
Program Flyer: Download
Campus: Broadway Broadway
Start Dates: Sep
 
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What you will learn

Upon successful completion of this program, graduates will be able to:

  • Construct and convey meaning via the interpreting process by applying comprehensive linguistic, cultural, and functional analysis in various communication settings.
  • Effectively monitor, assess and critique the quality of an interpretation, engaging with feedback and adjusting as needed.
  • Make appropriate decisions regarding the use of simultaneous and/or consecutive interpreting modes and the use of interaction management strategies.
  • Demonstrate fluency and versatility in American Sign Language across different topics, registers, and communication settings.
  • Comprehend and effectively produce spoken and written English within a variety of contexts and types of discourse.
  • Interact respectfully within the Deaf and Deaf-Blind communities, exhibiting cultural competence, reciprocity, and an understanding of Deaf identities and organizations.
  • Demonstrate allyship and an awareness of positionality, power, and the systemic effects of audism.
  • Use effective strategies and apply an awareness of self to managing stress and maintaining wellness.
  • Demonstrate professionalism, teamwork, and effective communication in diverse interpreting contexts, adhering to standards in the field.
  • Apply ethical principles, professional guidelines, and critical thinking to uphold integrity and accountability in interpreting practice.
  • Engage in ongoing professional development, reflective practice, and active contribution to the interpreting community of practice.

What to expect

This program provides high quality instruction, unique curriculum and varied learning activities. Key features of the program include Deaf community involvement and one full term of practicum. Students are required to complete volunteer hours, immersion activities in the Deaf community (for example, camps lasting several days) and supervised work placements.

Course topics in the program include interpreting theory and practice, advanced ASL, service learning, allyship and positionality, Deafhood, professional ethics and standards of practice, among others.

In summary, the interpreting program consists of the following:

Year One:

  • Fall term with full course load plus service learning in the community.
  • Winter term with full course load plus volunteer interpreting in the community.
  • Summer term (May & June) includes two courses plus continued community involvement.

Year Two:

  • Fall term with full course load plus volunteer interpreting in the community.
  • Winter/spring term (Jan to May) including three 4-week practicum placements.
  • Capstone week – submission of portfolio and demonstrations of readiness to graduate.

Admission requirements

Program-specific

Admission to the Sign Language Interpretation Diploma program is through a competitive selection process. Throughout the selection process, applicants are assessed for proficiency in American Sign Language (ASL) and English, an understanding of the Deaf community, Deaf culture, the field of Sign Language interpreting, and knowledge of social justice issues.

Admission Requirements

  • ENGL 1100 with a minimum ‘B’ grade, or equivalent
  • An ASL and Deaf Studies Certificate, or equivalent, or permission of the department
  • Submission of a CASPer test score. CASPer test scores are valid for one admission cycle.
  • Successful ASL panel interview including a faculty member, Deaf community member, and professional interpreter

Upon Acceptance to the Program

  • Criminal Record Check
    Students in this program are required to complete a CRC. The CRC must be completed according to VCC's Criminal Record Check instructions. Students whose CRC results indicate they pose a risk to vulnerable populations will not be able to complete the requirements of the program (e.g. practicums) or graduate.

General

  • This program is available to Canadian citizens and permanent residents. See program options for international students at VCC International.
  • Applicants who self-identify as Indigenous are strongly encouraged to connect with VCC’s Indigenous Education and Community Engagement team to learn more about VCC’s Indigenous Enrolment policy, application preparation/completion, program advising, and a range of other individualized services.
  • Applicants must be 16 years of age or older or a graduate of a secondary school. (Some exceptions may apply.)
  • Applicants must submit official transcripts and other documents as required by their course or program. Seats are offered to eligible applicants with completed applications, in order of application completion date (except for programs with competitive admissions). A complete application includes an application form, evidence of educational pre-requisites (e.g. transcripts), any required supporting documents (e.g. language proficiency, audition video), and the required deposit or fee payment. If you do not meet the requirements for the term applied, your application may be cancelled.
 

Missing prerequisites? Learn more about VCC's tuition-free academic upgrading or English as a Second Language (ESL) courses, or discover which university transfer options are right for you.

Recommended Characteristics

  • Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to communicate assertively
  • Ability to mentally process information very quickly
  • Fluency and versatility in ASL and English (spoken and written)
  • Empathy and respect for people of diverse identities and experiences
  • Awareness of your positionality, power and privilege
  • Flexibility and adaptability
  • Self-care strategies for maintaining physical, mental and emotional health
  • Determination, perseverance and ability to follow through

Courses *

Prior learning assessment and recognition

Students may request formal recognition of prior learning attained through informal education, work, or other life experience, including Indigenous ways of knowing. Credits may be granted to students who are able to sufficiently demonstrate the learning outcomes of specific courses.

PLAR is available for the following courses:

  • ??INTR 3140 Interpretation Theory and Practice 4
  • INTR 3150 Advanced American Sign Language for Interpreters

Methods of PLAR vary by course, and may include exams, professional portfolios, interviews, performance assessments, and other evaluations.

If PLAR is successful, transcripts will reflect an 'S' grade (satisfactorily completed), which is not included in grade point average (GPA) calculations.

See Policy 316 Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition for more information.

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Fees and other costs *

Tuition Deposit

0 (0 non-refundable)

Tution deposits are payable usually within two (2) weeks after a Letter of Offer is issued.

Fee descriptionFee AmountNotes
Application fee36
Tuition Tuition 7716
Student union354
College initiative177
Materials0 not including textbooks
Campus resource155
Laundry0
Tools (deposit)0
Coverall (deposit)0
Uniform (deposit)0
Medical and Dental 570
Temporary Medical Insurance 0
U-PASS 893
Graduation45
Program-specific extra fees0
Total
Textbooks or other supplies may be required for this program. For information and prices, visit the VCC Bookstore.

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ONLINE
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MAIL
Fill out a PDF form and mail to:
VCC Registrar's Office
1155 East Broadway
Vancouver, B.C., V5T 4V5
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