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Deaf Culture and American Sign Language Studies

Overview Degrees/Certificates Courses Faculty

Associate Degree

A.A. in Deaf Studies

This degree provides an introductory overview of the Deaf community and American Sign Language in cultural context. Students completing the Deaf Studies A.A. degree will develops an understanding and respect for the Deaf culture which will enable them to collaborate effectively with Deaf people for the empowerment of the Deaf community. The Deaf Studies A.A. provides students with the psychosocial dynamics necessary to work in educational or social service setting or to pursue an advanced degree at a 4-year institution.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2024

Degree Requirements

Course Code Course Title Units
DEAF 310 American Sign Language I 4
DEAF 312 American Sign Language II 4
DEAF 314 American Sign Language III 4
DEAF 316 American Sign Language IV 4
DEAF 351 Introduction to American Deaf Culture 3
DEAF 352 Introduction to American Deaf Education 3
DEAF 360 Deaf Art 3
A minimum of 3 units from the following: 3
DEAF 311 Fingerspelling, Classifiers and Numbers (3)
DEAF 354 Creative Signs (3)
DEAF 380 American Sign Language Literature (3)
Total Units: 28

The Deaf Studies Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree may be obtained by completion of 60 transferable, semester units with a minimum overall grade point average (GPA) of 2.0, including (a) a minimum grade of "C" (or "P") for each course in the major or area of emphasis described in the Required Program, and (b) either the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) or the California State University General Education-Breadth Requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • Compare and contrast characteristics that impact a Deaf person's life in the following areas: the world of work, education, family, language and social development.
  • Demonstrate the ability to carry on an American Sign Language conversation consistent with the ability of a 4th semester second language students with a Deaf individual or groups of Deaf people.
  • Demonstrate characteristics related to personal growth and adjustment in various populations within and outside of the Deaf community.
  • Apply skills in working with various Deaf participants within and outside of the Deaf community.
  • Demonstrate skills in working with school-age Deaf children in an educational setting.
  • Compare and differentiate the Deaf individual to individuals of diverse populations when comparing human development.
  • Demonstrate appropriate cultural interactions within the Deaf community.
  • Demonstrate ability to communicate respectfully in a Deaf-culture setting.

Career Information

This degree prepares students for entry-level positions such as paraprofessional services in an individual or group setting, in an educational or social services agency which serves Deaf consumers.