American Sign Language
Keuka College is one of the few American colleges and universities to offer a baccalaureate degree program in American Sign Language (ASL). Keuka College’s four-year program combines intensive training in American Sign Language as a foreign language with integrated coursework in Deaf culture, linguistics, and literature. The curriculum emphasizes experiential learning through Field Periods and a senior internship. These first-hand field experiences enrich classroom learning immensely. They provide students frequent, authentic occasions to (a) apply and test the validity of theories and information; (b) observe professionals and clients in action, and (c) acquire new professional knowledge and skills to bring back to the classroom.
The College’s strong arts and sciences core curriculum also enhances students’ pre-professional development in the major in many important ways. Core courses develop and refine students’ abilities to write well, think critically and creatively, read with understanding, communicate effectively with various audiences, work successfully—both in teams and as an independent, lifelong learner—and understand and respect human diversity.
Graduates of the program possess a high degree of proficiency in American Sign Language and a solid introduction to the psychology, sociology, and literature of Deaf culture. Keuka College’s program prepares students for entry-level jobs in a variety of fields. In recent years, graduates of two- and four-year ASL programs across the country have found employment in business and corporate settings, elementary and secondary schools, community service organizations, vocational rehabilitation centers, medical and legal fields, local and state governments, communication facilities, and colleges and universities. The demand for college-educated individuals with an advanced degree of fluency in American Sign Language is increasing nationwide. Students who have taken previous ASL coursework must submit a video recording demonstrating proficiency for ASL placement purposes.
Graduate Outcomes:
Students graduating with a degree in ASL will be able to:
- communicate fluently and accurately in ASL;
- demonstrate recognition of the Deaf as a people with a distinctive language, sensibility, and culture; and
- demonstrate knowledge of the role of Deaf history and Deaf culture in American society.