A world-class institute of changemakers in the deaf and signing community.
Since 1864, we have been investing in and creating resources for deaf and hard of hearing children, their families, and the professionals who work with them.
Over 50 degree programs, with online and continuing education for personal and professional development.
Innovating solutions to break down barriers, and using science to prove what does and doesn’t work.
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Make lasting memories and grow in ways you never thought possible.
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School Director: Roberto Sanchez
Sorenson Language and Communication Center (SLCC)
As the world’s expert on deaf studies and American Sign Language, Gallaudet is the best place to study deaf individuals and communities. For more than 150 years, we have led advances in education of deaf and hard of hearing students and deaf rights worldwide.
By studying and living at the world’s only bilingual ASL and English university, you will become fluent in ASL and gain firsthand insight into the global deaf and hard of hearing community. Gain unparalleled professional experience right on campus as you help create an exhibit for the Gallaudet Museum, develop the Gallaudet Almanac, host an annual deaf alumnae panel or collaborate on faculty research.
Our highly published faculty are excellent teachers as well as scholars. Through the deaf studies program, they will help you build a strong foundation in the historical, sociological and cultural aspects of the deaf community to prepare for a career in deaf education, linguistics, interpretation, sociology or social work.
See list of all Gallaudet majors
Keep reading to learn more about the deaf studies program and career outcomes.
Complete an internship at the National Association of the Deaf or at a school for deaf and hard of hearing students. Or contribute to the Deaf Studies Digital Journal. The deaf studies program offers many opportunities to gain practical experience.
All of Gallaudet’s recent ASL and deaf studies majors are employed (44 percent) or in graduate school (56 percent) within one year of graduation. Learn more about alumni of the Department of American Sign Language and Deaf Studies.
Employment in education and museum work requires at least a bachelor’s degree and is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations from 2012 to 2022. Learn more.
Social workers need at least a bachelor’s degree in social work, and clinical positions require a master’s degree. Employment is projected to grow 19 percent, faster than average. Learn more.
Interpreter positions require a bachelor’s degree. Employment is projected to grow 46 percent, much faster than average. Learn more.
Students in the department have access to state-of-the-art equipment for coursework, field research and data analysis in our Multimedia Lab. In addition, the Gallaudet University Archives boasts the world’s largest collection of historical artifacts, documents and visual materials about deaf people.
Admissions Requirements
Spring 2021 – Dec 12Fall 2021 – May 15