• Career Opportunities
• Learning Outcomes
• How To Get Started
• Entrance Requirements
• Cost
• Curriculum
• Contact

Interpreter Training

AAS-T

Interpreter Training

The Interpreter Training Program is the only two-year (six quarters) associate of applied science degree programs in interpretation in Western Washington. It prepares graduates to facilitate communication between deaf and hearing people using English and American Sign Language. The program has a reputation of excellence nationwide for its strong American Sign Language emphasis and for producing successful graduates with marketable skills.

The curriculum includes skills classes, seminars, and internships, as well as general education classes related to this field.

For information on related programs, see the Deaf Interpreter Training Certificate Program.

Career Opportunities

The program is designed to prepare individuals to work as interpreters in areas such as colleges, public schools or as freelance interpreters. The curriculum provides students with a background that helps them prepare to enter work in human service areas such as vocational rehabilitation, early childhood education, and social and mental health agencies. Graduates may also find employment in theaters, libraries, companies, museums, or any other public or private arena in which deaf and hearing people interact.

Entrance Requirements

Curriculum for the program begins with the requirement of successful completion of six quarters of American Sign Language at Seattle Central Community College with a 2.5 or better grade in ASL 203 (ASL VI), or have the equivalent proficiency in signing. Students who transfer ASL credits from another college must take the proficiency exam. New students are accepted only in the fall of each year.

For an associate of applied science degree, the usual completion time is two years.

How To Get Started

• Complete the Standard Procedure for Admission to the College
• Complete the Interpreter Training Program Student Information Form available in the Admissions or Allied Health, Business, Languages & Cultures Division Office.
• Complete ASL 203 (ASL VI) with a 2.5 grade point, or demonstrate equivalent proficiency in signing.
• Meet with the Division Counselor for an interview early spring quarter. Bring transcripts and test scores with you to the interview.
• Attend a program orientation session if possible. This may be waived for out-of-town applicants.

Estimated Training Costs

• Tuition
• Photo ID Card (one-time fee)
• Student Activity Fee (per quarter)
• Transportation Mgmt Fee (per quarter)
• Computer Lab Fee (per quarter)
• Universal Technology Fee (per quarter)
• Audio/Visual Tapes (est. $15 per year) $30.00
• Textbook (first year) $75.00
• Textbook (second year) $30.00
• Lab Fee (each quarter) $29.25

Curriculum

* Satisfactory performance (2.5 grade) is required in the previous interpreting class in order to continue in the program.

** Satisfactory performance required in the previous AIE class in order to continue in the program.

Note: This curriculum is under revision. Contact the division counselor for further information.

Students must maintain a 2.0 GPA in their course work to remain in the program.

For Further Information:

Interpreter Training Certificate Program
Health and Human Services
Seattle Central Community College
1701 Broadway, Room 2BE3210
Seattle, WA 98122
PHONE: (206) 344-4347
TTY: (206) 344-4347
FAX: (206) 587-6337