Penn State Now Offering American Sign Language Minor

Penn State’s Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders is now offering the option to study American Sign Language (ASL) as a minor for undergraduate students.

The minor, which is open to all undergrads, aims to offer students interested in pursuing careers within education, business, social services, healthcare, communications and linguistics the opportunity to become proficient in ASL, according to a news release. 

Students will gain “a deeper understanding of Deaf culture, communication and history,” while equipping them with the necessary skills to engage with the Deaf community in personal, professional and educational settings.

“ASL and its application transcends any specific major or field of study and can be a beneficial skill to leverage across many industries,” ASL program coordinator Sommar Chilton said in a statement. “The lineup of coursework for the ASL minor is not only about being skilled in the language but also being knowledgeable about the cultural differences and how to integrate Deaf and hearing culture together for success, communication, and collaboration from both sides.”

The 18-credit minor includes five prescribed courses worth three credits each, with an additional three-credit course that students can choose from a pre-determined list. 

The program recommends that students allow at least four semesters to fulfill the requirements to complete the minor. Although the courses will lay out the foundation for navigating communication with the Deaf community, the ASL minor will not provide full preparation for a career as an ASL interpreter.