Dept. of Hearing, Speech, and Language Sciences (HSLS) Peer Mentoring Program logo

What is the Gallaudet University Peer Mentoring Certificate Program?

The Gallaudet University Peer Mentoring Certificate Program is a certificate program designed to help train d(D)eaf, hard-of-hearing, and late-deafened individuals in meeting the diverse needs of other individuals with hearing loss. Students in the Peer Mentoring program will be trained to:

  • provide information, support, empathy, validation, and skills to consumers in need,
  • conduct needs assessments, problem-solve, and establish goals and objectives to improve the quality of life for these individuals,
  • help consumers effectively use assistive hearing technology, and, ensure equal and appropriate access to communication.

Overview of the Program

The program is comprised of a 12-credit (unit) curriculum that is contained in seven courses completed over a period of two years, with one course per semester. This program uses a distance-learning model for five of the courses, and a short on-site seminar model for two courses, both of these occurring over the course of three days (Friday through Sunday).

Courses are taught by Doctoral Audiology (AuD) students who are overseen by one of the Gallaudet AuD faculty. Materials for the Peer Mentoring Program have been written by both professionals and consumers and are updated as new information comes into the marketplace.

The predominately online format allows for individuals to balance work and family. Scheduled ‘live’ chat discussions typically take place in the evening one night a week. There will also be interactive discussion boards, assignments, readings, etc. Below is a table listing the course titles and credits. Click on the course name to view a brief course description.

Course Name Units Location
PSG 690: Opening Seminar: Orientation to Peer Mentoring 1 Campus
PSG 691: Hearing Loss in America: An Overview 2 Online
PSG 692: Practical Audiology: Fundamentals for Consumers 2 Online
PST 778: Biopsychosocial Aspects of Hearing Loss 2 Online
PSG 694: Hearing Assistive Technology 2 Online
PSG 695: Peer Mentoring for Hearing Loss 2 Online
PSG 696: Final Seminar: Applications of Peer Mentoring 1 Campus

** Please note that depending on the status of the COVID-19 pandemic, it may be necessary to conduct the opening seminar virtually.

What is the Cost of the Program?

At this point in time, tuition costs has been waived for all students accepted into the Peer Mentoring program. There is a $75 processing fee upon registering with the program. You are, however, responsible for travel and lodging during the on-site courses; hotel accommodations (Kellogg Conference Hotel) are available on the campus.

What Credentials Will I Have When I Complete this Program?

Upon completion, the successful graduate will receive a Certificate in Peer Mentoring from Gallaudet University under the Center for Continuing Studies.

What Can I Do With My Training Once I have Completed this Program?

While the concept of professional peer mentors is much needed, peer mentoring within audiology is revolutionary and not yet established. Individuals who have graduated from the program report they benefit most through self-growth. Additionally, alumni vary on how they use their training, but most apply the skills acquired from the program to their current jobs, or to advocacy and outreach within their community. Many use the certificate as evidence of their ability to serve the deaf and hard-of-hearing population in various areas. Lastly, several of our graduates are Life Coaches and apply their training from the program to specialize in serving the deaf and hard-of-hearing communities.

Who do I contact for more information?

Please review this website for information regarding this program. More information can be found on the Application page. If you have specific questions that are not addressed in the website or want to request additional information, please email peer.mentoring@gallaudet.edu