Sign Language Interpretation
Sylvania CT 219 | 971-722-4672 (V) | 503-977-4951 (TTY) | 886-970-7933 (VP) | FAX: 971-722-4874 | sign@pcc.edu
Interpreting the thoughts and feelings of another person involves a complex set of skills. Learning this complex set of skills requires developing bicultural knowledge and bilingual skills in both American Sign Language (ASL) and English. Interpreters also need to understand specialized discourse, nuances of language, and ethical implications of decisions made in the course of interpreting. First and foremost, an interpreter must accurately convey meaning.
In PCC’s Sign Language Interpretation Program, students develop the fundamental skills needed to begin working as interpreters, using the opportunity to practice interpreting skills in class and in the field with experienced professionals. Our program offers a wealth of resources, practical experience, and the knowledge needed to succeed.
Advanced Classes, Practical Skills
PCC’s Sign Language Interpretation program provides a foundation in advanced American Sign Language (ASL), as well as Deaf history and culture, field experience, interpreting theory, and plenty of practice in interpretation in classes and internships. While we offer the same academic approach as other programs do, we emphasize mastery of both the practical skills of interpreting and the academic skills that you need to be employable. Our graduates’ success demonstrates that we prepare interpreters to be true professionals who lead fulfilling careers.
Another advantage to our program is our location. PCC is in a large metropolitan area with a significant Deaf community. Students have many options for internships, networking, and socializing within the Deaf and Interpreting communities.
Degrees and Certificates
In this program you can earn the following:
- Associate of Applied Science Degree
- Two year Certificate
- One year Certificate: Deaf Studies
See the catalog for information regarding program requirements.
Transfer Opportunities
Our program has an articulation agreement with Marylhurst University, and a block transfer agreement with Portland State University. This makes it easy for SLIP graduates to transition to completing their Bachelor’s degree.
How to Get Started
Students can begin the full-time, two-year program only in the fall term. Enrollment is based on an application process. To apply:
- Download a SLIP/Deaf Studies application.
- Submit the application and your transcript(s) in person or by mail to the SLIP office by the first Friday in March for priority consideration. After this date, to find out if applications are still being accepted, call 971-722-4672. The address for sending applications and transcripts is:
SLIP - SY CT219
PO BOX 19000
Portland, OR 97280-0990 - Apply for admission to PCC if you are not already a student here.
- Enter your interest in the SLIP degree or certificate into the GRAD Plan tool - this tool will help you plan your courses and track degree requirements.
- Complete any remaining prerequisites - for detailed information on prerequisites, see the catalog.
- Applicants who meet the prerequisites and preliminary screening guidelines are contacted and a screening interview is scheduled.
- Those who are admitted are notified and attend the program orientation, which is typically held in May or June.
- The program begins in September.