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.
We make it easy for you to apply and enter here.
Ready to take the next step toward a college education?
Make lasting memories and grow in ways you never thought possible.
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Founder and Scientific Director: Dr. Laura-Ann Petitto
Sorenson Language and Communication Center 1101
(202) 448-7274 (voice)(202) 618-6808 (videophone)
The state-of-the-art Brain and Language Center for Neuroimaging is led by Dr. Laura-Ann Petitto, the Science Director and Co-Principal Investigator of the National Science Foundation and Gallaudet University’s Science of Learning Center, “Visual Language and Visual Learning (VL2).” The Center features one of the world’s most advanced brain imaging systems, called functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS), as well as an Infant Habituation Center, Video-Recording and Editing studios, Video-Conferencing facilities, Experimental and Observation Chambers, Library, and more. The new Center is the site of neuroimaging and behavioral studies that provide knowledge about the biological mechanisms and environmental factors, which, together, make possible the human capacity to learn and convey language, achieve reading mastery, and become a skilled bilingual. Our discoveries have included answers to the following questions: What is the impact of learning two languages on the developing brain? When is the optimal time to expose a young child to two languages and two reading systems? What are the most optimal programs for teaching a young bilingual child to read? What are the normal developmental stages of bilingual language and reading acquisition? How can we ensure that bilingual children are achieving the greatest academic success?
Admissions Requirements
Spring 2021 – Dec 12Fall 2021 – May 15