The Department of ASL and Deaf Studies offers the world's premiere graduate program in Deaf Studies. Our students become members of a vibrant learning community dedicated to the critique of existing knowledge and production of new knowledge relating to Deaf communities and their sign languages.
The Cultural Studies Concentration challenges students to develop methods of inquiry, research and critique that explore the wide-ranging implications of Deaf ways-of-being. Students will engage in a yearlong project in which they will pursue an area of interest through an academic thesis, a creative project, or applied advocacy project.
MA in Sign Language Education (MA-SLED) Mission Statement
The Department of American Sign Language and Deaf Studies offers a M.A. degree in Sign Language Education. Students will be introduced to key theoretical and methodological issues involved in sign language instruction including curriculum development, assessment, and incorporating Deaf culture into the language curriculum. Students will undertake a teaching practicum and internship under the supervision of a cooperating teacher. An electronic portfolio is required at the completion of the program, representing the culmination of the student's academic performance.
Graduate Certificate Program in Deaf Studies
The Graduate Certificate Program in Deaf Studies provides students with historical and theoretical foundations in Deaf Studies. Students may select courses from an interdisciplinary curriculum in the areas of cultural studies, history, critical theory, philosophy, literature, disability studies, visual culture, critical pedagogy, public policy and advocacy. This 18-credit program will enhance students' knowledge of Deaf Studies, better preparing them to work in fields relating to Deaf communities.