Minor in Deaf Studies and American Sign Language

The Deaf Studies and American Sign Language undergraduate minor (12 units) promotes the understanding of the uniqueness and strength of the Deaf Community including its historical, cultural and linguistic context. Further, coursework addresses the systematic, societal barriers and discrimination that this community has and continues to face, and provides opportunity for students to reflect on their role as allies, advocates, and change agents. Students will gain competence in American Sign Language, both receptively as a means of expression with others.

With the Deaf Studies and American Sign Language undergraduate minor, students may obtain entry-level jobs in settings working with Deaf individuals such as residential supervisor, classroom aide, vocational trainer, and much more. Students may also combine this Minor with a related major field of study such as education, counseling, audiology and speech therapy for a more well-rounded grounding in the issues relating to the Deaf Community. 

Program Learning Outcomes

1. Examine the uniqueness and strengths of the Deaf community as well as the systematic societal barriers and discriminations that this community has and continues to face.
2. Demonstrate growing competency in using American Sign Language as a means of communication.