Sign Language Interpretation

Overview

Learn to become a sign language interpreter. Facilitate the communication between hearing and Deaf and hard of hearing communities using American Sign Language (ASL).

What to expect

This program provides high quality instruction, unique curriculum and varied learning activities. Key features of the program include Deaf community involvement and one full term of practicum. Students are required to complete volunteer hours, immersion activities in the Deaf community (for example, camps lasting several days) and supervised work placements.

Course topics in the program include interpreting theory and practice, advanced ASL, service learning, allyship and positionality, Deafhood, professional ethics and standards of practice, among others.

In summary, the interpreting program consists of the following:

Year One:

• Fall term with full course load plus service learning in the community.
• Winter term with full course load plus volunteer interpreting in the community.
• Summer term (May & June) includes two courses plus continued community involvement.

Year Two:

• Fall term with full course load plus volunteer interpreting in the community.
• Winter/spring term (Jan to May) including three 4-week practicum placements. Travel and accommodation are at the student’s expense. At least one placement will be outside the Lower Mainland.
• Capstone week – submission of portfolio and demonstrations of readiness to graduate.

What you will learn

• Construct and convey meaning via the interpreting process by applying comprehensive linguistic, cultural, and functional analysis in various communication settings.
• Effectively monitor, assess and critique the quality of an interpretation, engaging with feedback and adjusting as needed.
• Make appropriate decisions regarding the use of simultaneous and/or consecutive interpreting modes and the use of interaction management strategies.
• Demonstrate fluency and versatility in American Sign Language across different topics, registers, and communication settings.
• Comprehend and effectively produce spoken and written English within a variety of contexts and types of discourse.
• Interact respectfully within the Deaf and Deaf-Blind communities, exhibiting cultural competence, reciprocity, and an understanding of Deaf identities and organizations.
• Demonstrate allyship and an awareness of positionality, power, and the systemic effects of audism.
• Use effective strategies and apply an awareness of self to managing stress and maintaining wellness.
• Demonstrate professionalism, teamwork, and effective communication in diverse interpreting contexts, adhering to standards in the field.
• Apply ethical principles, professional guidelines, and critical thinking to uphold integrity and accountability in interpreting practice.
• Engage in ongoing professional development, reflective practice, and active contribution to the interpreting community of practice.

Program duration and maximum time for completion

The program is taught full-time over two years. The maximum time for completion is five years.

Admission requirements

Program-specific

Admission to the Sign Language Interpretation Diploma program is through a competitive selection process. Throughout the selection process, applicants are assessed for proficiency in American Sign Language (ASL) and English, an understanding of the Deaf community, Deaf culture, the field of Sign Language interpreting, and knowledge of social justice issues.

Admission Requirements

• ENGL 1100 with a minimum ‘B’ grade or equivalent
• ASLD 1215 or equivalent, or department permission
• INTR 1000 or equivalent, or department permission
• An ASL and Deaf Studies Certificate or equivalent, or department permission
• Submission of a CASPer score. CASPer test scores are valid for one admission cycle.
• Successful ASL panel interview including a faculty member, Deaf community member, and professional interpreter

Upon Acceptance to the Program

• Criminal Record Check
  Students in this program are required to complete a CRC. The CRC must be completed according to VCC’s Criminal Record Check instructions. Students whose CRC results indicate they pose a risk to vulnerable populations will not be able to complete the requirements of the program (e.g. practicums) or graduate.

Recommended considerations

• Off-campus learning environments may require navigating narrow and/or multi-level spaces to establish sightlines necessary to observe and/or use a visual language. Some activities may require navigating outdoor settings covering extended distances over several hours. Practicum courses can require early morning, evening or weekend shifts. Travel to different locations/outside the Lower Mainland is required for at least one practicum placement.
• Program activities involve continuous, repetitive hand, wrist and arm movement and movement of the facial muscles, head and neck in coordination with eye gaze.
• Some learning environments may include bright lights and loud, overlapping noises. Key learning activities require sustained auditory, visual, and cognitive focus in a broad range of novel environments. 
• Program learning activities require students to engage in ongoing critical self-reflection and class discussion of topics that may be sensitive.
• Student interpreting activities require students to adapt their interpersonal communication approach and language to meet the needs of a wide range of diverse interlocutors. They may be required to interpret ideas and use of language they do not personally agree with.
• Program activities regularly require demonstrating emerging practical skills in front of classmates and/or community members in English and ASL.
• Program tasks often involve quick decision making, rapid processing of written English, auditory and visual linguistic and contextual information and time-sensitive task completion.
• Most courses require access to a laptop with audio/video hardware including webcam, speaker and microphone during class. The VCC library offers laptops on loan.

Program availability

Courses

This information is intended as a guideline only. Program and course details are subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors.

Fees and costs

How to apply

Applications for September 2027 intake

The admissions requirements for September 2027 include ASLD 1215 (ASL Level 7B) and INTR 1000 (Introduction to Sign Language Interpreting). You must have these courses or equivalents to be admitted to the program.

• INTR 1000 will be offered in Fall 2026 and Winter 2027.
• ASLD 1215 will be offered in May 2027.

When you apply on EducationPlanner BC for the September 2027 Sign Language Interpretation program, you must also apply for ASL and Deaf Studies (Individual Courses). This will allow you to register in those courses when registrations opens.

STEP 1: Start your application

• Apply online at EducationPlanner BC
• Remember to submit your official transcripts
• For September 2027 intake, also apply to ASL and Deaf Studies (Individual Courses).

STEP 2: Complete the CASPer assessment

The CASPer assessment is valid for one admission cycle only. CASPer results are not provided to applicants by CASPer or VCC.
CASPer schedules tests dates, and tests may close earlier than VCC’s deadline. Seats are on a first come, first served basis. Once tests are full, there may not be another chance to write the test for the intake of your choice. Choose your date and register on the CASPer website. For more information, see the CASPer Information for Prospective Students for details.

STEP 3: Check your email regularly

• Your application documents will be reviewed by the selection committee.
• If you are selected, you will receive an email to attend an online interview.
• If you are not selected, you will receive an email informing you of the decision and your application ends here.

STEP 4: Participate in online interview

See the interview and video submission guidelines for important information.

STEP 5: Meet the Faculty Event

Attendance is optional but strongly encouraged. This is an opportunity to engage with a professional interpreter panel and a current interpreting student panel, meet the program faculty and staff, and learn more about the program. Interpretation will be available.

STEP 6: Check your email regularly

• After all interviews are complete, you will be notified of your standing by email.
• If you are accepted, the Admissions Office will contact you within two weeks with information about fees and deadlines.
• If you are not accepted, you will receive an email informing you of the decision.

Ready to apply?

Online

You will be directed to EducationPlannerBC.

Mail

Fill out a PDF form and mail to:
VCC Registrar's Office
1155 East Broadway
Vancouver, B.C., V5T 4V5

International students

Apply to VCC international programs online. Check the availability status for your desired program and intake before applying.

Contact us

Program information

<p>For questions about Sign Language Interpretation programs email us at [email protected].</p>

Advising services

Phone: 604.871.7000, option 2
Email: [email protected]

Advising services for International students

[email protected]