B.A. in American Sign Language Studies

Program Overview

The B.A. in American Sign Language (ASL) Studies at UConn is an interdisciplinary program that integrates linguistics, cultural studies, and educational theory. This program aims to provide students with a deep understanding of ASL as a language, as well as the cultural, historical, and societal contexts in which it is used. Students in this program engage in rigorous coursework, where they learn the structure, grammar, and usage of ASL, while also developing an understanding of Deaf culture and the challenges faced by the Deaf community. The program also offers opportunities for students to immerse themselves in real-world experiences through internships and community engagement activities.

Curriculum: The curriculum for the B.A. in ASL Studies is designed to offer a comprehensive education in both the theoretical and practical aspects of ASL. Students begin with introductory courses that teach foundational ASL skills, including basic vocabulary, grammar, and sentence structure. As they progress, students engage in more advanced courses that focus on translation, interpretation, and the role of ASL in various professional contexts. Key courses within the curriculum include Deaf Culture, ASL Linguistics, and ASL Interpretation. Students also have the option to study related fields such as psychology, education, and linguistics, which helps broaden their understanding of how ASL interacts with other disciplines.

Research Focus: UConn is committed to advancing research in the field of American Sign Language and Deaf studies. The university's faculty members are actively engaged in research that explores a wide range of topics related to Deaf culture, ASL linguistics, and accessibility issues. UConn supports a collaborative research environment where students can participate in groundbreaking studies, attend conferences, and contribute to the development of new knowledge in the field. This research focus enriches the academic experience for students, as they have access to cutting-edge studies and research initiatives that influence the future of ASL and Deaf education.

Industry Engagement: The University of Connecticut places a strong emphasis on industry engagement, providing students with practical experience that can be applied in real-world settings. Through internships, service learning opportunities, and partnerships with local organizations, students in the ASL Studies program gain valuable exposure to careers in education, healthcare, social services, and more. These hands-on experiences not only help students apply their knowledge of ASL but also enable them to build professional networks that are essential for future career success. UConn's collaborations with various industry leaders ensure that students are well-prepared for the workforce after graduation.

Global Perspective: The B.A. in American Sign Language Studies at UConn offers students a global perspective on the role of sign language in different cultural contexts. As ASL is one of many sign languages used around the world, students are exposed to international perspectives on Deaf culture and language use. UConn encourages study abroad opportunities, allowing students to experience Deaf communities in other countries and engage with global perspectives on accessibility and inclusion. This global outlook helps students develop a more well-rounded understanding of sign languages and Deaf cultures, preparing them for international careers and cross-cultural communication.