American Sign Language and Deaf Studies Program (Online) (C144)
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Domestic Students
Program Description
Leadership Claims
This American Sign Language (ASL) and Deaf Studies college program is unique in Ontario.
Program Overview
The American Sign Language and Deaf Studies certificate is an online program open to both Deaf and non-deaf students. This program will provide you with intensive training in American Sign Language (ASL) and English.
Full Description
The one-year online American Sign Language and Deaf Studies (C144) certificate program will help you develop your skills in ASL. If you are considering the Honours Bachelor of Interpretation (ASL – English) program, or if you want to combine ASL with another career, this program is highly recommended.
This program provides intensive preparation in:
- American Sign Language (ASL) and English
- an orientation to Deaf culture
- current social issues affecting Deaf people
The curriculum combines opportunities to study and practice ASL with learning about the structure and features of the language.
As a student in this program, you will have the opportunity to:
- learn, understand and participate in basic conversations in ASL
- develop stronger skills in spoken and written English
- develop a beginning understanding of the role of ASL within the ASL Community
Your Field Education Options
The American Sign Language and Deaf Studies program does not have a formal field placement requirement, but it does offer opportunities to practice your ASL skills through simulations and class activities.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Educational Pathways
The American Sign Language and Deaf Studies program is an excellent program to prepare you for further related studies. Upon graduation from this program, you can consider applying to:
- George Brown's Honours Bachelor of Interpretation (American Sign Language – English) (C302) program or similar American Sign Language-English Interpreter programs at other colleges. The American Sign Language and Deaf Studies program is a recommended prerequisite.
- George Brown's Deafblind & Intervenor Studies (C158) one-year certificate program that uses an adapted form of ASL to communicate with the Deafblind.
If upon graduation from this program you decide to pursue a non-related career, you may apply to George Brown or other colleges similar programs at other colleges to further pursue a non-related career.
Alumni Impact
We are immensely proud of the contributions of our alumni in Toronto and around the globe.
From Michelin-starred restaurants to major construction, entertainment, community and financial organizations, our graduates are truly making an impact across a range of industries.
Courses
Required Courses
SEMESTER 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COMM 1000 | Communicating Across Contexts |
| COMM 1022 | English Foundations for ASL Students |
| SIGN 1056 | Introduction to Anti-Oppressive Practice |
| SIGN 1057 | ASL Immersion I |
| SIGN 1058 | ASL Seminar I |
SEMESTER 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COMM 2000 | Communicating Across Contexts |
| SIGN 1063 | Signed Language Communities |
| SIGN 1064 | ASL Immersion II |
| SIGN 1065 | ASL Seminar II |
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Communicate effectively in oral and written English.
- Express and receive messages accurately in routine conversations using American Sign Language.
- Apply basic knowledge of Deaf culture, the Deaf community and the interpreter profession.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service, and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2024. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2025 and at later dates. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by students separately.
** Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2025. Tuition fees are subject to board approval. Material, student service and ancillary fees are estimated based on prior years. All fees are subject to change without notice. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Each year we award over $2 million dollars in scholarships, awards and bursaries to first-year students. Check out our financial aid webpages for ways to pay for college and the full list of available scholarships, awards and bursaries.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- grade 12 English (C or U)
** Mature Student Status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit the Transfer Guide for more information.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
Contact Us
School of Deaf and Deafblind Studies
Email: deafstudies@georgebrown.ca
Our office hours are 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Erika Stebbings, ASL & Deaf Studies Program Coordinator
Email: erika.stebbings@georgebrown.ca
For more information about George Brown College: Contact George Brown College
