Interpreter Preparation

Semester Sequence

This is a suggested full-time schedule for a student who has completed any developmental course work and has no transfer credits. Refer to the College catalog for specific requirements in selecting General Education Courses.

General Education - 21-23 Credits

Program Requirements and Electives - 42 Credits

Total Number of Credits Required for Degree: 63-65*

Program Description

The Interpreter Preparation program is designed to provide students with entry-level skills in sign language interpreting. Students will develop skills in expressive and receptive use of American Sign Language and specific technical skills required to interpret and transliterate. In addition, students will study topics relevant to Deaf people and the field of interpreting. Students will experience a wide variety of learning activities to enhance practical skills as well as theoretical knowledge. These include on-site observations and interviews, attendance at Deaf-related community activities, guest lectures, video and audio lab assignments, and classroom lectures.

CCBC offers two INTR program options – the Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree and the Certificate. The A.A.S. program is ideal for students who want to become ASL Interpreters and do not already have a degree; this program includes general education course requirements. The Certificate program is ideal for students who want to become ASL Interpreters but already have a degree. While the Certificate program does not include general education course requirements, some INTR courses do have general education prerequisites. Transcript evaluation may be necessary to determine if prerequisites have been fulfilled.

For new students with prior skills in American Sign Language (ASL), the department offers an assessment, for a fee, that may allow students to get credit. Experienced students should contact the Interpreter Preparation office at 443 840 4975 no later than two weeks prior to the start of the semester to set up an appointment.

It is important to note that because both Interpreter Preparation programs are primarily evening and part-time, they usually take between three to four years to complete. Before you can learn to interpret, you must first become fluent in the language. This takes time and practice. It is also highly recommended that students spend at least one year socializing and interacting in the Deaf Community to gain the level of fluency needed to become a professional interpreter.

Students may begin either INTR Program in any semester: Fall, Spring, or Summer.

The American Sign Language Proficiency Interview (ASLPI) is a program requirement. The ASLPI is a nationally recognized tool to measure language aptitude. Students are required to take the ASLPI and score at least 2.0 as a prerequisite to INTR 211 , Linguistics of ASL, and score a minimum level of 2+ before INTR 241 , Practicum.

Program Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this degree, students will be able to:

1. assess whether their skills match those needed on a particular interpreting assignment; 
2. interpret consecutively and simultaneously in a low-key, one-on-one setting;
3. use internal and external cues to maintain accuracy and determine whether interpreting assignment goals are being met;
4. incorporate feedback from a mentor, team interpreter, and/or deaf consumer into their interpretations;
5. adjust language style for the situation, guided by the consumer’s preference; and 
6. function appropriately in an interpreting situation following the interpreter’s Code of Professional Conduct.

Other

Career Highlights

• Interpreters may consider self-employment or private practice positions in the corporate and non-profit sectors, or work placement through an interpreter referral agency.
• Employment opportunities span across the educational, medical, mental health, religious, performing arts, legal and platform settings.
• Currently, qualified interpreters are in demand in all fields.
• Careers in Interpreting

Program Highlights

• Named Maryland’s Outstanding Career Program of the Year at the Post-Secondary level in 1997 by the Maryland State Department of Education.
• Recipient of the 1998 Maryland Association for Higher Education Distinguished Program Award in the Instructional category.
• Advocates for the recognition of American Sign Language as a legitimate language.