Sign Language Interpretation
As Deaf individuals increasingly access education, career and community services, the demand for Sign Language Interpreters is growing across the country. If you are skilled in American Sign Language (ASL), this program will prepare you for a dynamic career in a rapidly-expanding field.
Want to know a bit more about the career of Sign Language Interpretation? Watch a fun video from the Westcoast Association of Visual Language Interpreters (WAVLI)
Program highlights
- unique in British Columbia and the oldest program of its kind in Canada
- learn with excellent faculty in a program emphasizing experience and community work terms
- earn your diploma in just 2 years
- great employment opportunities for graduates
American Sign Language (ASL) skills
Entry into the Sign Language Interpretation program requires skill in American Sign Language (ASL), as measured in an ASL Proficiency Interview. See ASL proficiency expectations for applicants for more information.
Students planning to enter the Douglas College program are encouraged to first complete an accredited program in ASL and Deaf Studies. Many of our students in Greater Vancouver first complete the 10-month ASL and Deaf Studies program at Vancouver Community College (VCC). While completing this program cannot guarantee a seat at Douglas College, the majority of spaces are awarded to VCC program graduates.
For more information on the educational path to a career in sign language interpretation, see the FAQs.
Applying
The Sign Language Interpretation program starts in August/September of each year. The deadline for application is March 1, but enrolment is limited and students are advised to apply for admission one year in advance. See the College Calendar for admission requirements.
Applicants who are successful in the English and ASL threshold exams will be invited to a mandatory selection weekend which takes place the last weekend in April. For more information, contact the Sign Language Interpretation program.
For more information
- Read the Sign Language Interpretation FAQs
- Attend an information session
- See the College Calendar
- Contact the Sign Language Interpretation program