Overview of American Sign Language

American Sign Language (ASL) is a complex and culturally-rich language used by Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals to communicate. This language is not based on any other language, but is its own independent language with its own grammar, phonology, syntax and semantics. ASL is visual and spatial language, and is widely recognized as a language in the United States. It is also recognized around the world and is the primary language of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing communities.

What are the career opportunities for Graduates With A Master’s Degree in American Sign Language?

Doctoral students who have a graduate degree in ASL can choose to pursue a variety of career paths. Those who have a passion for education can find job opportunities in K-12 and higher education settings. Doctoral students can also find positions in agencies and organizations that work with the Deaf and Hard of Hearing communities, like the Department of Education, state rehabilitation agencies and deaf service organizations. Additionally, those with a doctoral degree in ASL can find roles in the corporate sector, such as interpreters, trainers and representatives for Deaf services.

Are there internship or co-op opportunities related to a master’s in American Sign Language?

Yes, there are many scholarship and internship opportunities available to PhD students in American Sign Language. The National Science Foundation (NSF) provides competitive scholarships to PhD students in ASL and encourages students to apply for internship and research experience programs at universities and colleges. The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) also provides internship, volunteer and research experiences.

Are there specialized tracks or concentrations within a master’s in American Sign Language?

Yes, when earning an master’s degree in American Sign Language, there are numerous specialty tracks and concentrations offered, such as linguistics, interpretation, language education, translation, sign language teaching, and sign language media. Students can choose which track to specialize in in order to further their studies. Additionally, students can take courses that focus on advocacy, psychology, culture, and communication.

How Does A Master’s Degree in American Sign Language prepare students for their career?

An master’s degree in American Sign Language not only offers a deeper understanding of the language itself, but also provides the skills needed in various settings. They gain a better knowledgeable of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing communities, the various types of interpreting, transliterating, and teaching and can have a better understanding of language and research conducted. Additionally, this type of degree prepares students to be leaders and advocates within the Deaf and Hard of Hearing communities.

Impact of artificial intelligence on American Sign Language?

The increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) in our daily lives has had an impact on American Sign Language in a variety of ways. One of the most relevant ways is the development of AI-powered interpretation systems, which have the potential to bridge the gap between the spoken language and ASL. Other AI applications in the field of ASL include automatic translation platforms, ASL learning chatbots, smart devices for the Deaf, and facial animation software.

The career outlook for students with a master’s in American Sign Language?

The career outlook for students with a master’s in American Sign Language is positive. Graduates can find a variety of job opportunities, such as interpreters and translators, language teachers, information and media specialists, advocates and counselors, and more. Professionals with advanced degrees in ASL are in high demand, and those with a graduate degree can command higher salaries in the workplace.

Here are the top reported starting salaries for graduates in American Sign Language:

Gallaudet University, Salary: $47,272

University of Northern Colorado, Salary: $45,525

For privacy reasons, not all schools report the first year salaries for students who earned their master’s degree in American Sign Language.