M.A. in Deaf Studies: Language and Human Rights

The Concentration in Language and Human Rights is designed to give a globally-based student population an understanding of the development of international human rights instruments, institutions, and discourses, with a focus on languages and linguistic minorities. This focus will give students a solid background in academic research and international policymaking which can be used to work in the field of linguistic human rights, with special attention to the unique situation of peoples who use sign language. Students will work a full academic year toward the completion of their Language and Human Rights research project which may take the form of a thesis or an applied project. This Concentration includes a study-abroad program in the fourth semester.

Admissions Procedures and Requirements

Applicants for the M.A. in Deaf Studies must complete the application procedures and meet the requirements for graduate study at Gallaudet University. Visit the Graduate Admissions web site for more information and a checklist of application requirements. Detailed program information and course descriptions are also available in the Graduate Catalog.

DEADLINE	DATE
First Date for Consideration of Application:	November 15
Due Date for Completed Application:	February 15

Program Specific Requirements:

Three letters of reference
ASL Essay: Personal Statement. In video format, submit a personal statement of interest in the program. This essay will be used for 2 purposes. It will give help us understand your personal interest in our program and will also be used to determine your proficiency in ASL. Why are you applying for this degree? What do you hope to gain from the degree? What are your professional interests after you graduate?
On your application (on page A1), please ensure that you note which concentration you are considering: Cultural Studies or Language and Human Rights.
Transcripts
ASLPI 3.0 or above.
GPA 3.0 or above.

Recommended Prior Coursework:

Introduction to Deaf Culture
Introduction to ASL Structure

Program of Study

Core Curriculum

All students admitted to the program must complete the following core courses with grades of B or higher.

Semester I (Fall)

GPS 700 Culture and Language Seminar (1)
DST 700 Proseminar I (1)
DST 703 Deaf Cultural Studies (3)
EDF 770 Introduction to International Development (3)
DST 705 Sign and the Philosophy of Language (3)
ASL 709 ASL Media Production (3)

Semester II (Spring)

DST 702 Proseminar II (1)
DST 712 Enforcing Normalcy (3)
ASL 770 Sign Language Planning and Advocacy (3)
EDF 772 International Development with People with Disabilities in Developing Countries (3)

Concentration in Language and Human Rights

Semester III (Fall)

DST 780 Deaf Studies Master's Thesis Project I (3)
EDF 834 Program Development and Evaluation in Special Education and Human Services (3)
DST 733 Theory and Identity in Deaf Studies (3)

Semester IV (Spring)

DST 781 Deaf Studies Master's Project II (3)
DST 740 Studies in the Human Rights of Deaf People (3)
DST 741 Development of the Transnational Deaf Public Sphere (3)