BA (Hons) British Sign Language & Deaf Studies

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Students should have completed their secondary education with a minimum overall percentage of 60% or above in a relevant qualification equivalent to the UK's General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) or A-levels.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6, with no individual component score below 5.5.
• TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 80, with with no band less than 10.
• PTE: A minimum overall score of 61, with no individual score below 59.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

Scholarships for International Students at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan):

Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship: The Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship is a prestigious scholarship awarded to high-achieving international students. This scholarship provides a significant tuition fee reduction for the duration of the student's program. The selection is based on academic merit, and applicants are automatically considered when they apply for a full-time undergraduate or postgraduate program at UCLan.

International Excellence Scholarship: The International Excellence Scholarship is aimed at international students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance. This scholarship offers a tuition fee reduction for the first year of study and is available for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs. The selection criteria include academic achievements, personal statements, and references.

Country-Specific Scholarships: UCLan offers scholarships specifically tailored to students from certain countries or regions. These scholarships aim to promote cultural diversity and encourage international students from specific regions to study at UCLan. The eligibility criteria and award amounts vary depending on the specific scholarship.

Sports Scholarships: UCLan recognizes the achievements of talented student athletes and offers sports scholarships to support their academic and sporting pursuits. These scholarships are available for international students who demonstrate outstanding sporting ability and academic potential. The scholarships provide financial support, mentoring, and access to sports facilities and training programs.

Alumni Loyalty Discount: UCLan values its alumni and offers a tuition fee discount to international students who have previously completed a full degree program at UCLan and wish to pursue further studies at the university. The discount is applied to the tuition fees of eligible postgraduate programs.

External Scholarships and Funding: In addition to the scholarships offered by UCLan, international students can also explore external scholarship opportunities and funding options. Various organizations, foundations, and governments provide scholarships for international students studying in the UK. UCLan's International Office can provide guidance and information on external scholarship opportunities.

It is important to note that the availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines for scholarships may vary each year.

The BA (Hons) British Sign Language & Deaf Studies program equips graduates with a unique skill set that opens doors to diverse career paths within the deaf community, education sector, non-profit organizations, advocacy groups, and beyond. It offers fulfilling opportunities to make a positive impact by promoting accessibility, inclusion, and understanding for deaf individuals in society.

1. BSL Interpreter/Translator: Graduates of the BA (Hons) British Sign Language & Deaf Studies program often pursue careers as BSL interpreters or translators. They facilitate communication between deaf and hearing individuals in various settings, including educational institutions, healthcare facilities, legal proceedings, and public events.

2. Deaf Education Specialist: With a strong foundation in deaf studies and BSL proficiency, graduates can work in deaf education settings as teaching assistants, inclusion coordinators, or educational consultants. They support the academic and social development of deaf learners, advocate for inclusive practices, and collaborate with educators to enhance accessibility.

3. Community Outreach Coordinator: Graduates may work in community organizations or non-profit agencies that serve the deaf and hard of hearing community. They develop and implement programs that promote social inclusion, advocate for accessibility, and provide support services to enhance the quality of life for deaf individuals and their families.

4. Deaf Awareness Trainer: Some graduates specialize in delivering training sessions and workshops on deaf awareness, BSL basics, and inclusive communication practices. They work with businesses, government agencies, and service providers to promote cultural sensitivity and improve accessibility for deaf individuals in public spaces.

5. Advocate and Policy Officer: Graduates with a BA (Hons) in British Sign Language & Deaf Studies often pursue roles in advocacy and policy development. They work for organizations that promote deaf rights and accessibility, lobbying for policy changes, and contributing to the development of inclusive legislation in areas such as education, employment, and healthcare.

6. Researcher in Deaf Studies: A career in research within the field of deaf studies is also a viable option for graduates. They may work for academic institutions, think tanks, or research organizations, conducting studies on deaf culture, language acquisition, cognitive processes, and social issues affecting the deaf community.

7. BSL Tutor/Instructor: Some graduates choose to become BSL tutors or instructors, offering courses and workshops to individuals interested in learning sign language. They may work independently or within educational institutions, helping to spread BSL proficiency and cultural awareness.

8. Media and Entertainment Industry: There are opportunities for graduates to work in media and entertainment, providing expertise in BSL for television, film, and digital media productions. They may serve as consultants, advisors, or actors, promoting accurate representation of deaf culture and sign language in the media.