College of Arts and Humanities
Deaf and Sign Language Studies
Bachelor of Arts | Major
Deaf and Sign Language Studies, BA
The Deaf and Sign Language Studies degree at CWU dives into Deaf culture, history, and the social and psychological aspects of deafness.
You will actively study ASL linguistics, Deaf literature, and arts, and advocate for Deaf, DeafBlind, DeafDisabled, and Hard-of-Hearing cultures and rights. This program is all about making a difference and driving inclusivity. With resources like an ASL lab and Deaf cultural events, you will gain hands-on experience and connect with others in the field. At CWU, you are not just learning a language and culture; you are gearing up for a career that can truly make an impact.
Questions? Contact Us.
World Languages and Cultures
Create Your Future
What You'll Study
Academic Catalog | World Languages and Cultures Website
Courses
- ASL 251 - Second-year American Sign Language
- ASL 252 - Second-year American Sign Language
- ASL 253 - Second-year American Sign Language
- ASL 301 - American Sign Language Literature
- ASL 305 - American Sign Language Fingerspelling and Etymology
- ASL 315 - Experiences in the Deaf Community
- ASL 405 - Sign Language Structure and Usage
- ASL 410 - Deaf Culture, Sign Languages, and Media
- ASL 415 - Community Relations: Current Issues in the Deaf World
- WLC 487 - Culminating Experience
Department-Approved Electives
- ANTH 382 - Descriptive Linguistics
- ASP 305 - Accessibility and User Experience
- ASP 435 - Accessible Information Design
- SOC 365 - Minority Groups
- WGSS 326 - Intersections of Gender, Race, Class, and Sexualities
Small Class Sizes
Enjoy small class sizes while studying Deaf and Sign Language at CWU. Get more individualized attention and support from your professors, helping you learn the language and understand deaf culture better.
Community Events
Get to know your peers in other language programs through events like International Karaoke Night, Lunar New Year celebrations, and Global Halloween movie nights.
Clubs and Organizations
Join student clubs and organizations at CWU that focus on world languages and cultures and meet other students who share your interests. These clubs offer chances to practice languages, join cultural events, and attend workshops.
World Languages Day
Take part in World Languages Day, our biggest annual event, featuring cultural exhibits, language workshops, performances, and hands-on activities.
Apply
Discover how to apply to your program of choice at Central.
Financial Aid
Our Financial Aid staff are here to help you navigate financial aid.
Student Life
Pursue your interests in a supportive community. Learn more.
Visit
The best way to discover what makes CWU so special is to experience it yourself.
Options
All programs include online class options and study abroad opportunities in many countries.
Global Sites
where you can earn academic credit while studying abroad in one of 43 countries.
Aid
The department of World Languages and Culture has scholarship available to help students with their language studies and cultural exploration.
Why Study Deaf and Sign Langauge at Central?
- Explore the rich history and culture of the Deaf community, and contributions to society and enhancing your cultural competence
- Enhance your career prospects in fields like education, social services, and communication by becoming proficient in American Sign Language (ASL) and understanding Deaf culture
- Learn from experienced faculty who are passionate about Deaf studies and ASL
Successful Fields
American Sign Language (ASL) Interpreter
Deaf Education Teacher
Deaf Services Coordinator
Social Worker
Sign Language Instructor