Have you ever considered receiving a certificate or degree in American Sign Language (ASL)? ASL is a beautiful and unique form of communication. ASL is a great way to connect with others and express yourself through the medium of signs. ASL Certificate Programs are needed for communication and interactions with individuals who are hard of hearing.

This blog post will evaluate California Community Colleges (CCC) to identify which institutions offer certificate programs in ASL. ASL is becoming more popular daily, and there are many opportunities to use it professionally.

Various ASL Certificate Programs are offered throughout the California Community College system. You can receive a certificate in ASL and be considered officially certified in ASL.

What is American Sign Language (ASL)?

ASL is a visual language that uses hand shapes, gestures, body language, and facial expressions to communicate. It is the primary language of deaf communities in the United States and Canada.

 ASL Finger Spelling Number 1 to 10 on white background. Sign language for fall 2023
ASL Finger Spelling Numbers 1 to 10

ASL is a form of communication that is natural and intuitive, and people of all ages can use it. ASL is a rich and expressive language that has its own grammar, syntax, and vocabulary. It is a beautiful language that allows people to communicate in an intimate and personal way.

What Can I Do With ASL Certificate Programs | Certified in ASL

A certificate in American Sign Language (ASL) can open up a world of opportunities. Many people who are deaf or hard of hearing use ASL to communicate, and there is a growing demand for interpreters certified in ASL.

With a certificate in ASL, you can work as an interpreter in a variety of settings, including:

  • Schools
  • Hospitals
  • Government Offices

You can also become a teacher of ASL or start your own business providing interpreting services.

In addition, many businesses now offer customer service in ASL, so a certificate in ASL can also lead to employment in the customer service field.

Whatever path you choose, a certificate in ASL can help you make a difference in the lives of those who use this important language.

How long does it take to receive an ASL Certificate?

The length of an ASL certificate program will depend on many factors. For example, the length, or unit requirements, for receiving a certificate in ASL will differ depending on the institution you attend.

However, the vast majority of degree-granting ASL programs are two years. Some students may have courses that will count towards degree completion, but it will depend on the concept of the courses and whether the registrar’s office articulated them.

Learning ASL is difficult because it is a nontraditional form of communicating in terms of conciseness and clarity. For example, there are multiple websites that display the correct meaning and maneuvers of a word.

  • Season(s) (i.e., Autumn, Summer, Winter)
  • Nature (Tree, Grass, Ground)
  • Finger Spelling Maneuvers (involving the elbow, downward angles, etc.)
You can use an ASL certificate programs for multiple jobs and occupations
You can use an ASL certificate for multiple jobs and occupations

Sign Up for Certification

Evaluate your local community colleges to identify ASL programs for the upcoming Fall semester. An ASL degree allows students to learn advanced communication techniques that add to the humanity of those in the deaf community.

Grossmont College has a robust ASL degree/certificate program. Students can use American Sign Language classes as general education requirements, which boosts the potential for students to transfer in the Fall and Autumn.

Related: Cuyamaca College: Everything you Need to Know!

San Diego City College also offers an associate degree in American Sign Language. However, much like a traditional associate degree, students will have to complete a minimum of 60 units in order to receive an associate degree in American Sign Language. Add classes supporting your degree completion pathway while ensuring a transfer by the Autumn season.

Conclusion

If you’re interested in American Sign Language, there are many opportunities to use it professionally. Certificate programs offer a way for students to learn ASL in a more focused way and can open up doors for employment in various fields. Whether you’re looking to become an interpreter or work in customer service, many options are available with a certificate in ASL.