I am looking to get a bachelor degree in American Sign Language Interpreting. I need to know what the top five schools are. I have seen the results of some local 2 year programs that leave a lot to be desired. I want the best.
What Are the Top Five American Sign Language Interpreting Training Programs in the USA?
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There are several good programs across the country.
Gallaudet is great, but they only offer admission to hearing students for the MA degree by recommendation. Getting in as a hearing undergraduate is almost impossible, and not easy with a 99% deaf undergraduate population, (they aren't always super friendly to hearing students).
CSUN has a large deaf population (about 250-300 students) and a solid interpreting program. You also can get a BA in Deaf Studies there.
There is a school in Minnesota, St. Cathryn's (sp) that offers a degree in Interpreting, they specialize in medical interpreting.
Really, there are tons of good programs, but it just depends on how much you put into it. The best way for you to become a good ASL interpreter is to, along with an ITP, socialize with deaf people! You need to be as fluent in English and ASL as possible before and as you start interpreting. Good luck!