Program Description
Get certified in American Sign Language (ASL) at Ozarks Tech! ASL is recognized as a foreign language in Missouri. This certificate provides you with a credential in ASL fluency. In our 30-credit-hour program, you’ll build conversational ASL skills. You will learn about language, history and communication skills essential to the Deaf community. Our program prepares you for transfer to a four-year institution or a career in fields that work with Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals, such as:
- Sign language interpreting
- Audiology
- Speech pathology
- Psychology
- Counseling
- Social work
- Deaf education
Even if you don’t plan to work in these fields, ASL can still be for you! Our courses can count as electives toward other degrees at the college. You can meet your general or humanities elective requirements while earning a credential in ASL. Our mission is to develop culturally competent ASL users. You can use these skills to support accessibility and inclusion in any career you choose!
Fun Facts About American Sign Language
- Over 35 different sign languages are used across North and South America.
- ASL has been used in the United States for more than 200 years.
- Approximately 500,000 people in the U.S. use ASL for communication.
- Deaf History Month is celebrated annually from March 13 to April 15.
- Babies can start using sign language to communicate 6-8 months before they can speak verbally.