Deaf Studies: Prep Certificate

Program Statement

This certificate program is designed for students interested in American Sign Language and the lives of Deaf people. This program can be completed in one year if started in the fall. It is a collection of first year courses ideal for students in non-Deaf Studies degree programs seeking specialized skills and knowledge in a competitive job market. It is also an effective way to decide if Deaf Studies is a major one wants to pursue before fully committing to one of our two-year degree programs. This certificate is not designed to lead to employment in the ASL (American Sign Language) workforce without further studies and credentials.

Program Information

This certificate program is a good choice for Deaf Studies students wishing to explore their program of study and career options while they complete developmental work.

Students are encouraged to be active in our ASL/Deaf Studies club and in the Deaf community through attendance at Deaf/ASL events.

Students will spend an additional hour per week engaged in language lab activities with each ASL course taken.

Students who have taken non-credit “sign language classes” in the past, or who are native signers (Deaf/signing family) should meet with the program coordinators to discuss CPL (Credit for Prior Learning) opportunities. 

Students who have taken 2 or more ASL classes in high school, with a B or better, should meet with the program coordinators for placement. 

Although individual courses may be offered on different campuses in both day/evening formats and/or online, Intro to Deaf Studies and Deaf Culture are primarily offered on the New Bedford campus for day, face-to-face classes or online.

ASL 101 Elementary ASL I is offered in both online and on-campus formats.