How to Become a Sign Language Interpreter
To become a sign language interpreter, you typically need to complete an educational program in American Sign Language (ASL) at a college level, often earning an associate or bachelor's degree, and then pursue a professional certification to validate your skills, with many employers preferring a degree focused on interpretation or communication studies alongside ASL coursework; you should also gain experience in Deaf culture to effectively interpret between spoken English and ASL.
​
Key steps to becoming a sign language interpreter:
-
Learn ASL: Enroll in ASL classes at a community college, university, or language school to gain fluency in American Sign Language.
-
Study Deaf Culture: Take courses related to Deaf culture and community dynamics to understand the nuances of communication within the Deaf community.
-
Choose a Degree Program: Consider an associate or bachelor's degree program specifically designed for sign language interpretation, which will provide comprehensive training in interpreting theory, ethics, and practical application.
-
Gain Practical Experience: Seek opportunities to practice interpreting in real-world settings through internships, non-certified interpreting or volunteer work.
-
Obtain Certification: Pass a recognized interpreter certification exam, such as the one offered by the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID), to demonstrate your proficiency and professional standing.
Important considerations:
-
Certified Deaf Interpreter (CDI): Some situations may require a CDI, a Deaf individual with specialized training in interpreting, particularly when complex cultural nuances are involved.
-
Ethics and Professionalism: As a sign language interpreter, you must uphold ethical standards and maintain confidentiality in your work.
-
Continuing Education: Stay updated with the latest practices in the field by attending workshops and professional development courses.
References:
[1] https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/how-to-become-asl-interpreter
[2] https://www.southtexascollege.edu/academics/asl/
[3] https://languagers.com/is-becoming-a-sign-language-interpreter-a-good-choice/
[4] https://rid.org/certification/available-certifications/
[5] https://rid.org/certification/
[6] https://www.utrgv.edu/programs/bs-american-sign-language-interpretation.htm
[7] https://www.oaklandcc.edu/programs/sli/
[9] https://www.acdhh.org/interpreters/interpreter-resources/