Academic Programs

Core requirements include courses in American Sign Language (ASL), and linguistics, as well as courses that convey basic knowledge and understanding about the language and culture of Deaf people. People note that not all ASL courses taken at other schools or community colleges are equivalent to CSUN's ASL courses. Students with prior sign language experience are encouraged to contact the Deaf Studies Department for advisement and proper placement in ASL courses. All Deaf Studies concentrations require the same core requirements.

(F) - Fall Only, (S) - Spring Only, (B) - Offered Both Semesters

The Interpreter Education Program (IEP) prepares students to be successful in entry-level interpreting positions upon graduation. The IEP is an intensive two-year program* designed to enhance English, ASL, and Interpreting skills. The program consists of four major courses, which includes an internship class in the final semester that provides the opportunity for practical experience and feedback from qualified, professional interpreters. The program also provides direct instruction regarding professional conduct and the National Interpreter Certification Test.

(F) - Fall Only, (S) - Spring Only, (B) - Offered Both Semesters

* The IEP program is a two-year program starting after the completion of all pre-requisite courses. If a student meets the pre-requisites and passes the screening test to be admitted into the program, the expected duration of the program is two years. Class availability and remaining general education courses may alter expected graduation dates.

This concentration prepares students for future employment as ASL instructors, usually to hearing, second language learners. The demand for ASL teachers is high as an increasing number of high schools are now offering ASL as a foreign language or elective course. This concentration is also designed for students seeking admission into graduate school for Linguistics and other related fields. Students interested in pursuing careers in Deaf of ASL Theatre are also advised to declare ASL/ASL Literature as their concentration.

(F) - Fall Only, (S) - Spring Only, (B) - Offered Both Semesters

Students who choose this concentration aim to become teachers of deaf children within K-12 mainstream or residential school settings. Upon completion, students move on to appropriate graduate programs to obtain teaching credentials and advanced degrees in Deaf Education.

(F) - Fall Only, (S) - Spring Only, (B) - Offered Both Semesters

This concentration provides a solid foundation for advanced degrees and future employment in social service-related fields. Examples of such careers serving members of the Deaf community include counselors, psychologists, social workers, and advocacy workers.

(F) - Fall Only, (S) - Spring Only, (B) - Offered Both Semesters

This concentration provides a strong background in Deaf culture and can be applied to a variety of careers in Deaf-related fields. Deaf Cultural Studies option gives students who do not have a set career path an opportunity to explore various facets of Deaf culture in order to make a more informed decision on a career.

(F) - Fall Only, (S) - Spring Only, (B) - Offered Both Semesters

Students interested in pursuing careers in a field that does not fit one of the other concentrations are encouraged to meet with an academic advisor to discuss their options within the major. If the advisor agrees that no other concentration will be suitable, an individualized plan will be developed.

(F) - Fall Only, (S) - Spring Only, (B) - Offered Both Semesters