Sign Language Interpretation: Admission

Students can begin the full-time, two-year program only in the fall term. Enrollment is based on an application process. To apply:

Step 1) Apply to PCC

Apply for admission to PCC if you are not already a student here.

Step 2) Complete Prerequisites

Complete the prerequisite courses for this program. See the catalog page for a detailed list of prerequisite courses. You can also use GRAD Plan to see what prerequisites you still need to complete.

Step 3) Submit Transcripts

If you completed prerequisites at other institutions, you will need to send official transcripts to the SLIP Office.

English and World Languages - SLIP
SY CT219
PO BOX 19000
Portland, OR 97280-0990

Step 4) Application

Download the SLIP/Deaf Studies application and submit to the SLIP office by March 22, 2013. If you need to submit an application after this date, please contact us at 971-722-4672 or sign@pcc.edu.

Step 5) Recommendation Forms

Have a Deaf instructor and a hearing instructor complete a recommendation form. The instructors will submit the forms directly to the SLIP Office.

Step 6) Screening Interview

Applicants who meet the entrance requirements are contacted to arrange a screening interview in May. The screening interview consists of two parts: a written assessment and a video assessment.

Part A: Written
  • English grammar assessment
  • English vocabulary assessment
  • World knowledge assessment
Part B: Video (view and record)
  • Text analysis assessment (spoken - except Deaf applicants, who may sign)
  • ASL comprehension assessment (receptive with written responses)
  • ASL grammar assessment (expressive with prompts on paper)
  • Video interview (receptive and expressive)

Step 7) Orientation

Those who are admitted are notified and attend the mandatory program orientation, which is typically held in May or June. The orientation includes an overview of what to except in the program and a chance to meet your instructors. After attending the orientation, you must successfully pass a criminal background check from an agency designated by PCC.

The program begins in September.

Course of Study

Employment Prospects

Gainful Employment Disclosure

What Graduates are Saying ...

“The extensive focus on the ethical and cultural aspects of interpreting, not only the linguistic aspects, was invaluable. I use all these tools in my daily work and often find myself referring back to specific lessons from the program during my work. […] I consider the instructors from SLIP to be mentors, colleagues, and friends as a result of the strong relationship that developed during my time there. They continue to be resources for me in my work.”

Krista Harmon (2003), Sign Language Interpretation; B.A. Applied Linguistics; freelance interpreter