Become an ASL Interpreter in Two Years
There is a shortage of qualified interpreters for people who are deaf in the United States. Our program at TJC prepares you for a career as an interpreter serving the deaf community in medical, legal, education, community, and in a wide variety of other settings.
Degree PlansSign Language Interpreting
Becoming an American Sign Language interpreter is a chance for cultural enrichment and an excellent profession as job prospects –full-time, part-time and “as needed” schedules –are abundant right now. TJC offers an Associate of Applied Science in Sign Language for students who are looking for a unique and rewarding career. Certificates in Medical and Legal Interpreting are available to help you advance in your interpreting career.
Our program at TJC prepares you for a career as an interpreter serving the deaf and the community in a variety of settings. Our seasoned faculty will help you become fluent in deaf culture and in American Sign Language (ASL), which combines signing, fingerspelling, specific body language and facial expressions.
In addition, we offer extensive training in interpreting/transliterating (Expressive and Receptive) in preparation to take and pass the state board exam.
Our ASL Skills Certificate is a great asset to anyone’s career especially in healthcare, law enforcement and education. This is designed for people who do not wish to interpret but want to learn the language and culture for conversational skills or to work in a related field such as deaf education.
Come join us for this wonderful opportunity to learn an exciting, practical skill and become a huge asset to an exclusive community.
Degree Plans
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Sign Language Interpreting (AAS)
With your AAS degree and state board certification you can immediately start in your career field or continue your career path with a baccalaureate degree.
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ASL Skills (Certificate)
Our ASL Skills Certificate gives you an alternative option to learn ASL skills, but not become an interpreter. This is an excellent addition to those majoring in deaf education, special education, speech pathology, criminal justice and healthcare fields, to name a few.
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Sign Language: Healthcare (Certificate)
With our small class size you will receive extensive training in the healthcare system and healthcare interpreting protocol from our highly qualified team. We will also prepare you for interpreting in basic and specialty healthcare settings.
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Sign Language: Legal (Certificate)
The need for highly-skilled interpreters—specifically in the courtroom, law enforcement and other legal settings—is rapidly growing. To participate in this program, you must be a graduate of an Interpreter Training Program or a certified interpreter with current credentials.
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Next Steps
Frequently Asked Questions
For students in this program who may have a criminal background, please be advised that the background could keep you from being licensed by the State of Texas. If you have a question about your background and licensure, please speak with your faculty member or the department chair. You also have the right to request a criminal history evaluation letter from the applicable licensing agency.