Ph.D. Program

The Department of Interpretation offers a Ph.D. degree in interpretation, with a focus on signed-spoken language interpretation. This program is available for Deaf, hard-of-hearing and hearing people who are experienced interpreters and who meet the University's Graduate School and Department of Interpretation admission requirements.

The program is designed to prepare future interpreter educators and researchers who will provide exemplary leadership in the interpreting field. Students may specialize in one of two theoretical and applied areas: interpreting research or interpretation pedagogy, or do a combined program. Both areas have a strong emphasis on research and require completion of original research and a dissertation.

Applicants for the Ph.D. in Interpretation must have previous graduate studies in interpretation or translation studies. Successful completion and graduation from the MAI program at Gallaudet meets this requirement. Applicants must also have at least three years of full time equivalent of interpreting experience, however we strongly encourage applicants to have at least five years of full time interpreting experience. The program includes research-focused courses that address interpretation studies from various disciplines, courses focusing on critical pedagogy, research and teaching internships, and elective courses. As part of their education, students will examine curriculum and assessment at the only university currently offering a BA, MA, and Ph.D. in ASL-English interpretation.

Interpretation courses are taught in ASL by noted scholars in a variety of disciplines, including linguistics, sociolinguistics, sociology, and interdisciplinary studies. Faculty maintain active teaching, researching, and/or interpreting practices. Students have the opportunity to work with renowned interpreting scholars from around the U.S. and abroad.

This is not an online program, although we are exploring how to offer courses remotely. There are certain residency requirements for all students which meet the university on-campus requirements. On-campus requirements also provide students the opportunity to examine interpreting classrooms, courses, teaching, as well as experiencing how the GU mission is put into practice in our B.A. in Interpretation (BAI) and the M.A. in Interpretation (MAI) programs. Ultimately, the doctoral program aims to produce interpreting scholars prepared to research, teach, and become leaders in the field of interpretation.

Gallaudet provides a unique opportunity for doctoral students to live and study and interact with people from across the country and around the world.