American Sign Language / English Interpreting, BS

Interpreting is an exciting and in-demand career. (Employment is projected to grow 20% by 2031, much faster than average.) And UWM’s ASL interpreter program will give you the edge you need to succeed.UWM’s four-year bachelor’s program for interpreting is the only one of its kind in Wisconsin. Our American Sign LanguageEnglish Interpreting program goes beyond language, culture and how to facilitate conversations. We work to develop well-rounded interpreters who value and consider others’ perspectives. Who are culturally sensitive and empathetic practitioners. And who continuously work to better themselves and the interpreting profession.Program HighlightsUWM offers Wisconsin’s only four-year bachelor’s program for American Sign Language English interpreting. (A bachelor’s degree is required to be eligible for national certification testing.) Our program aligns with both state licenses, giving students more employment opportunities at graduation.Our ASL interpreter program is proud to be one of a few in the country to have the Sorenson Synergy Program available to students. Interpreting students can visit the Sorenson Call Center in West Allis and observe video relay interpreters at workConnect with our highly qualified instructors. All ASL instructors are deaf and experienced with providing a safe, immersion-like environment. Within the program professional course sequence, you’ll learn from nationally certified interpreters. They bring their expertise in the field, as well as relevant work experience, to the learning environment.Access a unique community of mentors. This includes: your advisor, program coordinator, instructional staff, peer mentors and professional interpreters from the community.We work hard to ensure that graduates reach their career goals. We also pride ourselves on the success our former students have achieved through their work in our community. In a recent survey of the past five graduating classes, 80% of our graduates were working as interpreters. 76% reported finding work within three months of graduation.The ASL interpreter program curriculum aspires to align with the Commission on Collegiate Interpreter Education (CCIE) Accreditation Standards.

All applicants whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency in one of the following ways:An approved test score that meets the requirement for admission.University study: Completion of at least 18 months of full-time, for-credit academic study (approximately three semesters) at a recognized or accredited institution of higher education whose language of instruction is English immediately prior to enrollment at UWM.Secondary/high school study: Proof of completion of the last two years of secondary/high school at an institution whose language of instruction is English immediately prior to enrollment at UWM.