Honours Bachelor of Interpretation (American Sign Language – English) Program (C302)
Program Description
Leadership Claims
The first degree of its kind in Canada. Faculty is comprised of dual-professionals, Deaf interpreters, two nationally certified interpreters (COI) and published authors.
Innovative pedagogy encompassing opportunities for work integrated learning through community partnerships and use of research-based curriculum.
Team-taught interpreting courses with both Deaf and non-Deaf professors.
Program Overview
This program is eligible for an entrance scholarship.
The Honours Bachelor of Interpretation (American Sign Language – English) program combines classroom theory, research, hands-on practice and professional field experience to prepare graduates to work as qualified interpreters.
Full Description
Have a question or want to learn more about this program? Attend an upcoming online Q&A Session.
Monday, October 21st, 5p.m. – 6p.m.
Monday, November 18th, 5p.m. – 6p.m.
Monday, December 2nd, 5p.m. – 6p.m.
Note: All Q&A Sessions will be held via ZOOM. A link will be sent to you upon registration for the event.
The Honours Bachelor of Interpretation (American Sign Language – English) (C302) program was developed to address the growing demand for qualified American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters. This field is considered a high-demand sector and is currently facing a labour shortage. This degree prepares graduates for work in this dynamic field.
An interpreter is a fluent bilingual-bicultural professional who facilitates communication between those who do not share the same language or culture.
To be a sign language interpreter requires manual dexterity, critical thinking skills, visual-spatial recognition, excellent short- and long-term memory and superior cognitive processing abilities in order to process information instantaneously at a level of bilingual and bicultural expertise beyond conversational fluency. For non-Deaf interpreters, this will also include auditory-processing capabilities.
Over the course of four years, students will continue to improve and hone both their English and American Sign Language proficiencies while studying to become interpreters.
This ASL-English Interpretation program focuses on seven areas of learning:
- language and culture
- field fundamentals
- interpreting skills
- research methods/trends
- ethics and professionalism
- breadth electives
- field and community experience
For applicants with a diploma or advanced diploma in American Sign Language – English interpretation, an advanced entry option is available. For details on how to apply, see the Admission Requirements tab.
Program Philosophy
The Honours Bachelor of Interpretation (American Sign Language – English) degree program aims to cultivate learners to become interpreters who are critical thinkers with unbiased communicative language and interpreting practices and an understanding of how intersectionality shapes interactions.
The program is committed to an anti-oppressive framework situated through Deaf-centric foundations of the program. This program utilizes a critical studies approach to anti-racism, anti-audism, and anti-ableism.
What does it take to be an American Sign Language – English Interpreter?
Is this program right for you?
Interpreting is a very rewarding but demanding field of work. Successful interpreters typically possess the following attributes:
- a strong command of both English and American Sign Language
- an excellent memory
- the ability to concentrate and focus easily and for long periods of time
- the ability to process and analyze information quickly under time constraints (cognitive processing skills)
- the ability to multitask
- versatility in different contexts
- willingness to be flexible
- strong communication skills
- excellent interpersonal skills
In preparation for field placement, students will be required to work in multiple small and large groups, both in classes and community settings. Attendance and participation are key elements of program success.
Your Field Education Options
420-Hour Internship Experience (unpaid)
Students in George Brown's Honours Bachelor of Interpretation (ASL – English) program wishing to become successful in the field of interpreting should expect to dedicate a significant amount of time to developing their craft outside the classroom.
To help students transition their skills from a controlled classroom environment to the real world, students are required to complete an internship program. This senior internship, offered in the fall semester of fourth year, is approximately 420 hours (equivalent to 14 weeks). During this time students will apply their skills, abilities, and knowledge in a variety of environments.
Students will work under the close supervision of a professional interpreter, develop a greater understanding of community agencies and partnership opportunities for sign language interpreters and engage in research.
As most interpreters in Ontario are self-employed independent contractors, these opportunities are not typically paid positions. These intensive field opportunities are meant to provide a rich learning experience and the chance to strengthen interpreting skills.
VOLUNTEER STUDENT INTERPRETING SERVICES (GBC-VSIS)
In addition to field placement and internship, the fourth-year students provide limited Pro Bono interpreting services in authentic settings within the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) by offering Volunteer Student Interpreting Services.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Courses
Required Courses
Semester 1
Code | Course Name |
---|---|
BINT 1001 | American Sign Language I |
BINT 1002 | Deaf Studies |
BINT 1003 | English Communications for Interpreters |
BINT 1004 | Introduction to the Interpreting Profession |
Select One Liberal Studies Elective |
Semester 2
Code | Course Name |
---|---|
BINT 1101 | American Sign Language II |
BINT 1102 | Cross-Cultural Studies |
BINT 1103 | Cognitive Processing Skills |
BINT 2003 | Sociolinguistics for Interpreters |
Select One Liberal Studies Elective |
Semester 3
Code | Course Name |
---|---|
BINT 2001 | American Sign Language III |
BINT 2004 | Values, Ethics and Professional Practice |
BINT 2005 | Introduction to Translation and Discourse Analysis |
BINT 2105 | Dynamic Interactions in ASL |
Select One Liberal Studies Elective |
Semester 4
Code | Course Name |
---|---|
BINT 2002 | Introduction to Research |
BINT 2101 | American Sign Language IV |
BINT 2102 | Interpreting I |
BINT 2103 | Interpreting Essentials |
Select One Liberal Studies Elective |
Semester 5
Code | Course Name |
---|---|
BINT 3001 | American Sign Language V |
BINT 3002 | Interpreting II |
BINT 3003 | Interpreting Interaction: Community |
BINT 3004 | Interpreting Practicum Seminar I |
BINT 3005 | Interpreting Practicum Field I |
Select one Liberal Studies Elective |
Semester 6
Code | Course Name |
---|---|
BINT 3102 | Interpreting III |
BINT 3105 | Interpreting Practicum Seminar II |
BINT 3106 | Interpreting Practicum Field II |
BINT 4001 | American Sign Language VI |
BINT 4003 | Interpreting Interaction: IPE |
Select One Liberal Studies Elective |
Semester 7
Code | Course Name |
---|---|
BINT 4004 | Research in Interpreting Studies I |
BINT 4101 | Interpreting and Technology |
BINT 4102 | Situated Learning: Interpreting Collaborations |
420 Hours Internship Experience (unpaid) (Fall)
Code | Course Name |
---|---|
BINT 4000 | Internship |
Semester 8
Code | Course Name |
---|---|
BINT 3101 | Dynamics in the Deaf Community: Contrastive Analysis |
BINT 4002 | Interpreting IV |
BINT 4104 | Research in Interpreting Studies II |
Select One Liberal Studies Elective |
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Analyze and critically apply current interpreting research trends as they inform meaning-based interpreting practices.
- Analyze the power dynamics that affect human communication, including the impact of the interpreter’s decisions and influence.
- Respect cross-cultural needs of participants in an interpreted interaction in a professional and ethical manner.
- Articulate societal views of Deaf culture, the Deaf community, multiculturalism, oppression, audism, global history of Deaf people, sign language linguistics and language variations.
- Use current research literature to analyze key issues relating to the practice and profession of interpreting.
- Determine appropriate modes of interpreting using evidence-based practice, effective interpersonal and professional skills.
- Perform effectively as an interpreter by incorporating current research and recognizing contextual factors including language and culture.
- Perform accurate and effective translations, consecutive and simultaneous interpretations.
- Use communicative language abilities in first and second language as required to accommodate specific dialogic interactions.
- Use professional and ethical judgment in decision-making while respecting diversity, equity, equality and rights of all participants.
- Engage in lifelong learning and reflective professional development.
- Assess personal competencies and limitations in the use of multicultural and multi-contextual approaches to communication.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
International 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 the student 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.
+ The tuition fee for this program does NOT include the cost of the work experience.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
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 web pages 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 with six grade 12 university (U) or university/college (M) courses, with a combined average of 65 per cent or higher
- grade 12 English (U) with a grade of 65 per cent or higher
- grade 11 Math (M or U) or grade 12 Math U or grade 11 Science (U) or grade 12 Science (M or U)
- supplementary requirements as outlined below – note: qualified applicants who meet the academic requirements listed above will receive a conditional offer based on successfully completing the supplementary requirements.
OR
Mature student status: 19 years or older and no OSSD**
- grade 12 English U with a grade of 65 per cent or higher
- grade 11 Math (M or U) or grade 12 Math U or grade 11 Science U or grade 12 Science (M or U)
- Combined average of English and Math/Science of 65 per cent or higher
- Post-secondary credits in English and Math/Science will also be considered (specific courses only)
- Supplementary requirements as outlined below
** There is no mature student testing in the required credits for degree programs. Mature applicants must have the English, Math and Science credits required. Additional information on where and how to upgrade can be found on the English, Math and Science upgrading pages.
Supplemental Requirements:
Non-Deaf applicants: Basic ASL proficiency level equivalent to approximately 200 hours of ASL instruction and practical use***.
Deaf Interpreter applicants: Advanced (native) comprehension and articulation of American Sign Language with awareness of connotative levels of meaning, along with idiomatic expressions and colloquialism use.
All applicants:
- mandatory information session
- applicant questionnaire
- mandatory in-person screening session that evaluates ASL and pre-interpretation skills*
- letter of reference (to be submitted during screening session)
* You will need a set of headphones as one of the assessments requires this equipment. Note: not applicable for Deaf applicants.
* Screening process comprised of assessments of both proficiency in American Sign Language (comprehension and articulation) and pre-interpretation skills. Applicants are required to demonstrate an understanding of the Deaf community and the field of sign language interpreting. Both academic requirements and all pre-requisites must be satisfied prior to registering for the screening session.
** Preferred, but not mandatory. The letter of reference from a Deaf person should address the following: your current ASL abilities, your involvement in the Deaf community and their reason for supporting your application to the program. The letter is to be from a Deaf person who is not a family member or a current faculty member of George Brown. The letter must include their signature and their contact information. The letter can be either a typewritten letter (Word or PDF document), or an ASL video letter, addressed to the program co-ordinators.
*** These competencies can be acquired through the American Sign Language and Deaf Studies certificate program at George Brown (C114), or an equivalent program, through part-time courses in the community.
Please note: Subject to competition, applicants may be required to have grades/averages above the minimum.
There is no admissions assessment (test) for the English, math or science requirements.
Advanced Entry for Interpreting Diploma Graduates
Graduates of George Brown's three-year American Sign Language – English interpreter advanced diploma program and graduates of other ASL-English interpreting diploma programs across Canada and the U.S. will have a degree completion pathway that enables them to enter directly into the degree program.
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
Semester 5 Advanced Entry:
- Graduate of other ASL-English interpreting diploma programs across Canada and the U.S. with a minimum of 3.0 GPA.
- Prior successful completion of a research course with a minimum passing grade of 65 per cent.
- Prior completion of two liberal studies courses with a minimum passing grade of 65 per cent.
- Screening interview that assesses ASL proficiencies and interpretation theory and skills.
Semester 7 Advanced Entry
- Graduate of George Brown's three-year American Sign Language – English Interpreter Advanced Diploma Program with a minimum 3.0 GPA.
- Prior successful completion of a Research Course with a minimum passing grade of 65 per cent.
- Prior completion of two Liberal Studies courses with a minimum passing grade of 65 per cent.
- Screening interview that assesses ASL proficiencies and interpretation theory and skills.
Please contact the program co-ordinators for more details about either degree completion pathway.
English Language Proficiency Required:
George Brown College ESL Level 9; TOEFL 84 overall and 21 in each skill band (online); IELTS 6.5 overall and 6.0 in each skill band; MELAB 85; CAEL overall 70 (writing 60); Please visit English Proficiency page for more details.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit the Transfer Guide for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
Special Requirements
Vulnerable Sector Check requirements and program policy (renew every year)
- In compliance with the requirements of our placement partners, all students in this program are required to have a Vulnerable Sector Check completed, and this check must be renewed every six months before entering into field or clinical placement.
- The Vulnerable Sector Check process typically takes two to three months, but under some circumstances can take four to eight months. This is required to protect the clientele of our placement partner agencies, who are considered “vulnerable persons” under the law.
- Students are responsible for ensuring that the Vulnerable Sector Check covers appropriateness for “individuals being employed and/or volunteering who will be working with vulnerable person(s).
- Students are required to keep the original copy of their Vulnerable Sector Check.
- Students who are unable to provide a “clear” Vulnerable Sector Check will not be able to start their field or clinical placement and will therefore be unable to complete the program. Students who are not eligible to attend their practice placement due to a “not clear” status will jeopardize their progress in the program. Our agency partners have the final decision for students being allowed to practice in their agency.
- Failure to meet the requirements for field placement will prevent students from completing the program and/or securing employment. The fees for the vulnerable sector check vary and must be paid by the student. For more information, please visit the Clinical Pre-placement website.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.
Contact Us
School of Deaf and Deafblind Studies
Email: deafstudies@georgebrown.ca
Corene Kennedy, Program Co-ordinator, Honours Bachelor of Interpretation (American Sign Language – English) ckennedy@georgebrown.ca
Rhondda Reynolds, Program Co-ordinator, Honours Bachelor of Interpretation (American Sign Language – English) rreynolds@georgebrown.ca
International Students: Please contact the International Centre.
If you require accommodations, please contact Accessible Learning Services.
For more information about George Brown College, please visit the site page Contact George Brown College.
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Honours Bachelor of Interpretation (American Sign Language – English) Program (C302)
Program Description
Leadership Claims
The first degree of its kind in Canada.
Program Overview
This program is eligible for an entrance scholarship.
The Honours Bachelor of Interpretation (American Sign Language – English) program combines classroom theory, research, hands-on practice, and professional field experience to prepare graduates to work as qualified interpreters.
Full Description
Have a question or want to learn more about this program? Attend an upcoming online Q&A Session.
Monday, October 21st, 5p.m. – 6p.m.
Monday, November 18th, 5p.m. – 6p.m.
Monday, December 2nd, 5p.m. – 6p.m.
Note: All Q&A Sessions will be held via ZOOM. A link will be sent to you upon registration for the event.
The Honours Bachelor of Interpretation (American Sign Language – English) (C302) program was developed to address the growing demand for qualified American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters. This degree prepares graduates for work in this dynamic field.
An interpreter is a fluent bilingual-bicultural professional who facilitates communication between those who do not share the same language or culture.
To be a sign language interpreter requires manual dexterity, critical thinking skills, visual-spatial recognition, excellent short- and long-term memory, and superior cognitive processing abilities in order to process information instantaneously at a level of bilingual and bicultural expertise beyond conversational fluency. For non-Deaf interpreters, this will also include auditory-processing capabilities.
Over the course of four years, students will continue to improve and hone both their English and American Sign Language proficiencies while studying to become interpreters.
This ASL-English Interpretation program focuses on seven areas of learning:
- Language and culture
- Field fundamentals
- Interpreting skills
- Research methods/trends
- Ethics and professionalism
- Breadth electives
- Field and community experience
For applicants with a diploma or advanced diploma in American Sign Language – English interpretation, an advanced entry option is available. For details on how to apply, see the Admission Requirements tab.
Program Philosophy
The Honours Bachelor of Interpretation (American Sign Language – English) degree program aims to cultivate learners to become interpreters who are critical thinkers with unbiased communicative language and interpreting practices and an understanding of how intersectionality shapes interactions.
The program is committed to an anti-oppressive framework situated through Deaf-centric foundations of the program. This program utilizes a critical studies approach to anti-racism, anti-audism, and anti-ableism.
What does it take to be an American Sign Language – English Interpreter?
Is this program right for you?
Interpreting is a very rewarding but demanding field of work. Successful interpreters typically possess the following attributes:
- a strong command of both English and American Sign Language
- an excellent memory
- the ability to concentrate and focus easily and for long periods of time
- the ability to process and analyze information quickly under time constraints (cognitive processing skills)
- the ability to multitask
- versatility
- willingness to be flexible
- strong communication skills
- excellent interpersonal skills
In preparation for field placement, students will be required to work in multiple small and large groups, both in classes and community settings. Attendance and participation are key elements of program success.
Your Field Education Options
420-Hour Internship Experience (unpaid)
Students in George Brown's Honours Bachelor of Interpretation (ASL – English) program wishing to become successful in the field of interpreting should expect to dedicate a significant amount of time to developing their craft outside the classroom.
To help students transition their skills from a controlled classroom environment to the real world, students are required to complete an internship program. This senior internship, offered in the fall semester of fourth year, is approximately 420 hours (equivalent to 14 weeks). During this time students will apply their skills, abilities, and knowledge in a variety of environments.
Students will work under the close supervision of a professional interpreter, develop a greater understanding of community agencies and partnership opportunities for sign language interpreters and engage in research.
As most interpreters in Ontario are self-employed independent contractors, these opportunities are not typically paid positions. These intensive field opportunities are meant to provide a rich learning experience and the chance to strengthen interpreting skills.
VOLUNTEER STUDENT INTERPRETING SERVICES (GBC-VSIS)
In addition to field placement and internship, the fourth-year students provide limited Pro Bono interpreting services in authentic settings within the GTA by offering Volunteer Student Interpreting Services.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Courses
Required Courses
SEMESTER 1
Code | Course Name |
---|---|
BINT 1001 | American Sign Language I |
BINT 1002 | Deaf Studies |
BINT 1003 | English Communications for Interpreters |
BINT 1004 | Introduction to the Interpreting Profession |
Select one Liberal Studies Elective |
SEMESTER 2
Code | Course Name |
---|---|
BINT 1101 | American Sign Language II |
BINT 1102 | Cross-Cultural Studies |
BINT 1103 | Cognitive Processing Skills |
BINT 2003 | Sociolinguistics for Interpreters |
Select one Liberal Studies Elective |
SEMESTER 3
Code | Course Name |
---|---|
BINT 2001 | American Sign Language III |
BINT 2004 | Values, Ethics and Professional Practice |
BINT 2005 | Introduction to Translation and Discourse Analysis |
BINT 2105 | Dynamic Interactions in ASL |
Select one Liberal Studies Elective |
SEMESTER 4
Code | Course Name |
---|---|
BINT 2002 | Introduction to Research |
BINT 2101 | American Sign Language IV |
BINT 2102 | Interpreting I |
BINT 2103 | Interpreting Essentials |
Select one Liberal Studies Elective |
SEMESTER 5
Code | Course Name |
---|---|
BINT 3001 | American Sign Language V |
BINT 3002 | Interpreting II |
BINT 3003 | Interpreting Interaction: Community |
BINT 3004 | Interpreting Practicum Seminar I |
BINT 3005 | Interpreting Practicum Field I |
Select one Liberal Studies Elective* |
SEMESTER 6
Code | Course Name |
---|---|
BINT 3102 | Interpreting III |
BINT 3105 | Interpreting Practicum Seminar II |
BINT 3106 | Interpreting Practicum Field II |
BINT 4001 | American Sign Language VI |
BINT 4003 | Interpreting Interaction: IPE |
Select one Liberal Studies Elective |
SEMESTER 7
Code | Course Name |
---|---|
BINT 4101 | Interpreting and Technology |
BINT 4102 | Situated Learning: Interpreting Collaborations |
BINT 4004 | Research in Interpreting Studies I |
420 Hours Internship Experience (unpaid) (Fall)
SEMESTER 8
Code | Course Name |
---|---|
BINT 3101 | Dynamics in the Deaf Community: Contrastive Analysis |
BINT 4002 | Interpreting IV |
BINT 4104 | Research in Interpreting Studies II |
Select one Liberal Studies Elective |
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Analyze and critically apply current interpreting research trends as they inform meaning-based interpreting practices.
- Analyze the power dynamics that affect human communication, including the impact of the interpreter’s decisions and influence.
- Respect cross-cultural needs of participants in an interpreted interaction in a professional and ethical manner.
- Articulate societal views of Deaf culture, the Deaf community, multiculturalism, oppression, audism, global history of Deaf people, sign language linguistics and language variations.
- Use current research literature to analyze key issues relating to the practice and profession of interpreting.
- Determine appropriate modes of interpreting using evidence-based practice, effective interpersonal and professional skills.
- Perform effectively as an interpreter by incorporating current research and recognizing contextual factors including language and culture.
- Perform accurate and effective translations, consecutive and simultaneous interpretations.
- Use communicative language abilities in first and second language as required to accommodate specific dialogic interactions.
- Use professional and ethical judgment in decision-making while respecting diversity, equity, equality and rights of all participants.
- Engage in lifelong learning and reflective professional development.
- Assess personal competencies and limitations in the use of multicultural and multi-contextual approaches to communication.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
International 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 2023. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2024 and at later dates. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student 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 2024. 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.
+ The tuition fee for this program does NOT include the cost of the work experience.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
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 with six grade 12 university (U) or university/college (M) courses, with a combined average of 65 per cent or higher
- grade 12 English (U) with a grade of 65 per cent or higher
- grade 11 Math (M or U) or grade 12 Math U or grade 11 Science (U) or grade 12 Science (M or U)
- supplementary requirements as outlined below
OR
Mature student status: 19 years or older and no OSSD**
- grade 12 English U with a grade of 65 per cent or higher
- grade 11 Math (M or U) or grade 12 Math U or grade 11 Science U or grade 12 Science (M or U)
- Combined average of English and Math/Science of 65 per cent or higher
- Post-secondary credits in English and Math/Science will also be considered (specific courses only)
- Supplementary requirements as outlined below
** There is no mature student testing in the required credits for degree programs. Mature applicants must have the English, Math and Science credits required. Additional information on where and how to upgrade can be found on the English, Math and Science upgrading pages.
Supplemental Requirements:
Non-Deaf applicants: Basic ASL proficiency level equivalent to approximately 200 hours of ASL instruction and practical use***.
Deaf Interpreter applicants: Advanced (native) comprehension and articulation of American Sign Language with awareness of connotative levels of meaning, along with idiomatic expressions and colloquialism use.
All applicants:
- mandatory information session
- applicant questionnaire
- mandatory in-person screening session that evaluates ASL and pre-interpretation skills*
- letter of reference (to be submitted during screening session)
* You will need a set of earbuds or headphones as one of the assessments requires this equipment. Note: not applicable for Deaf applicants.
* Screening process comprised of assessments of both proficiency in American Sign Language (comprehension and articulation) and pre-interpretation skills. Applicants are required to demonstrate an understanding of the Deaf community and the field of sign language interpreting. Both academic requirements and all pre-requisites must be satisfied prior to registering for the screening session.
** Preferred, but not mandatory. The letter of reference from a Deaf person should address the following: your current ASL abilities, your involvement in the Deaf community and their reason for supporting your application to the program. The letter is to be from a Deaf person who is not a family member or a current faculty member of George Brown. The letter must include their signature and their contact information. The letter can be either a typewritten letter (Word or PDF document), or an ASL video letter, addressed to the program co-ordinators.
*** These competencies can be acquired through the American Sign Language and Deaf Studies certificate program at George Brown (C114), or an equivalent program, through part-time courses in the community.
Please note: Subject to competition, applicants may be required to have grades/averages above the minimum.
There is no admissions assessment (test) for the English, math or science requirements.
Advanced Entry for Interpreting Diploma Graduates
Graduates of George Brown's three-year American Sign Language – English interpreter advanced diploma program and graduates of other ASL-English interpreting diploma programs across Canada and the U.S. will have a degree completion pathway that enables them to enter directly into the degree program.
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
Semester 5 Advanced Entry:
- Graduate of other ASL-English interpreting diploma programs across Canada and the U.S. with a minimum of 3.0 GPA.
- Prior successful completion of a Research Course with a minimum passing grade of 65 per cent.
- Prior completion of two Liberal Studies courses with a minimum passing grade of 65 per cent.
- Screening interview that assesses ASL proficiencies and interpretation theory and skills.
Semester 7 Advanced Entry
- Graduate of George Brown's three-year American Sign Language – English Interpreter Advanced Diploma Program with a minimum 3.0 GPA.
- Prior successful completion of a Research Course with a minimum passing grade of 65 per cent.
- Prior completion of two Liberal Studies courses with a minimum passing grade of 65 per cent.
- Screening interview that assesses ASL proficiencies and interpretation theory and skills.
Please contact the program co-ordinators for more details about either degree completion pathway.
English Language Proficiency Required:
George Brown College ESL Level 9; TOEFL 84 overall and 21 in each skill band (online); IELTS 6.5 overall and 6.0 in each skill band; MELAB 85; CAEL overall 70 (writing 60); Please visit English Proficiency page for more details.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit the Transfer Guide for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
Special Requirements
Vulnerable Sector Check requirements and program policy (renew every year)
- In compliance with the requirements of our placement partners, all students in this program are required to have a Vulnerable Sector Check completed, and this check must be renewed every six months before entering into field or clinical placement.
- The Vulnerable Sector Check process typically takes two to three months, but under some circumstances can take four to eight months. This is required to protect the clientele of our placement partner agencies, who are considered “vulnerable persons” under the law.
- Students are responsible for ensuring that the Vulnerable Sector Check covers appropriateness for “individuals being employed and/or volunteering who will be working with vulnerable person(s).
- Students are required to keep the original copy of their Vulnerable Sector Check.
- Students who are unable to provide a “clear” Vulnerable Sector Check will not be able to start their field or clinical placement and will therefore be unable to complete the program. Students who are not eligible to attend their practice placement due to a “not clear” status will jeopardize their progress in the program. Our agency partners have the final decision for students being allowed to practice in their agency.
- Failure to meet the requirements for field placement will prevent students from completing the program and/or securing employment. The fees for the vulnerable sector check vary and must be paid by the student. For more information, please visit the Clinical Pre-placement website.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.
Contact Us
School of Deaf and Deafblind Studies
Email: deafstudies@georgebrown.ca
Corene Kennedy, Program Co-ordinator, Honours Bachelor of Interpretation (American Sign Language – English) ckennedy@georgebrown.ca
Rhondda Reynolds, Program Co-ordinator, Honours Bachelor of Interpretation (American Sign Language – English) rreynolds@georgebrown.ca
International Students: Please contact the International Centre by visiting: https://www.georgebrown.ca/international/contact-international-centre
If you require accommodations, please contact Accessible Learning Services by visiting:
https://www.georgebrown.ca/current-students/services/accessible-learning-services
For more information about George Brown College: Contact George Brown College
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page