Sign Language interpreting is a highly specialized field requiring an in-depth course of study as offered at SWIC. While the foundation of the curriculum is a commitment to American Sign Language, the professional sign language interpreter is a service provider who must be able to adjust to a broad range of consumer preferences for interpretation along a broad spectrum of communication.

Courses for both programs are linked and listed below.

Choose a Program

Certificate

This is an 21-credit hour, two-semester certificate program consisting of sign language courses only.

Those who want a concentrated program of study in only Sign Language courses may enroll in the certificate program. Upon successful completion of the required courses, the student is awarded a certificate of program proficiency.

Associate in Applied Science Degree

This is a 67-credit-hour, two-year degree program which can be completed in four semesters and consists of:

• 15 credit hours of general education courses
• 52 credit hours of sign language courses

Degree Course Sequence

The Southwestern Illinois College Sign Language Studies/Interpreter Training program prepares students to work as interpreters for the deaf or hard of hearing community. The first year of the program is the Certificate program (with the exception of electives and SLS 120).

Conversational Sign Language – SLS 103

For those students interested in a more basic sign language course, we offer the Conversational Sign Language class. This course is offered online or in person with an online learning component.

General Education Courses

For the degree program, general education courses can be completed prior to beginning sign language studies courses. These courses can be taken at the Belleville, Sam Wolf Granite City or Red Bud campuses. If general education courses are not completed prior to admission, they must be completed during the semesters indicated. Prerequisites may be required for some courses. Refer to the Class Search link in eSTORM.

Sign Language Studies Courses

Note that certain courses are only offered once a year, therefore it is highly recommended to meet with the program coordinator to develop a schedule for completing the degree requirements in the proper sequence.

Courses are offered in the day or evening at the Belleville Campus only. A grade of “C” or better is required for all courses in the degree.

Field Experiences

Students will be required to travel outside of the college district for field experience courses, SLS 101, SLS 102, SLS 203, SLS 206, and SLS 230.

Sign Language Studies Programs Mission and Goals

View the program’s Mission and Goals.

CONTACT THE PROGRAM COORDINATOR FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: