Program Overview
The American Sign Language and Deaf Studies program is the largest minor on campus. The minor allows students the ability to earn a “degree with a difference.” Interested students are encouraged to start the courses early in their studies at Niagara University due to the progressive sequencing of the courses. We realize that many students like to explore courses before deciding. You are welcome to sit in on a class or two, come to our events, and/or meet with our professors individually.
The ASL/DS program offers small class sizes to enhance the individualized learning experience. Our faculty come from diverse backgrounds and are able to provide our students with a wide range of perspectives in the field of ASL/DS. Classes range from beginner ASL to conversational ASL with the possibility of having an internship after completion of the minor.
Experience
We provide internships for students at local Deaf-centered agencies and schools to expose them to Deaf culture in the workplace.
Flexibility
We offer our classes Monday – Thursday to provide a variety of class times for students to fit their schedules.
Community Involvement
We encourage all students to join the ASL Club to take the skills they learn in the classroom and practice them in a relaxed environment. The club participates in both on and off campus events to foster a connection between an academic skill and real life situations.
Prepare to Soar
Academic, Experiential, and Career Pathways
Careers
After additional education, we have had students find jobs as interpreters and teachers of the Deaf.
Our program strives to help students be able to engage with Deaf people in their chosen career.
Related Minors and Grad Degrees
Many students complete majors in education, social work, psychology, nursing, communications
and media studies, and criminal justice. No matter your major, a minor in American Sign
Language and Deaf Studies will provide you with a unique knowledge base and skill set applicable to any career.
My time at NU in the ASL/DS program was filled with opportunities. I was a TA for multiple courses and was able to have an internship at Deaf Access Services to learn more about the interpreting profession as well as community engagement. I built connections with my professors and am still in touch with them post-graduation.Kayleigh Schiesser '23
This program has taught me valuable skills that I have applied in both my career and personal life. Being a TA allowed me to share my passion of the culture while expanding my own knowledge and confidence with the language. I have continued using ASL and having interactions with various Deaf organizations post-graduation.Krissy Williams Hotel/Restaurant Management with a Concentration in Events and Meeting ManagementASL/Deaf Studies, Film Studies
Ready to Apply?
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NU offers rolling admissions, which means that you can apply at any time for the upcoming semester. Applications are reviewed as they come in, and students are typically notified of an admission decision in 3-4 weeks. What’s stopping you?
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