The OCC Sign Language Interpreter program is committed to providing you with a high-quality education in interpretation between American Sign Language and English through academic courses and community service activities.
The OCC Sign Language Interpreter program is proudly accredited by the The Commission on Collegiate Interpreter Education (CCIE).
While we offer an associate degree, our program is evaluated under the same rigorous national standards as four-year bachelor’s programs. This ensures our students receive an elite education focused on:
This information session will provide an introduction to the Sign Language Interpreter Program....
This information session will provide an introduction to the Sign Language Interpreter Program....
The OCC Sign Language Interpreter (SLI) program recognizes that language is a human right; that American Sign Language is a true language; and that individuals who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing and DeafBlind have the right to use the language of their choice. The foundational principles of the program include respect for:
Our two-and-a-half-year SLI program provides the comprehensive foundation needed to earn key industry credentials. Our instructors and mentors prepare students for the rigorous standards of the BEI (Board for Evaluation of Interpreters), EIPA (Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment), or NIC (National Interpreter Certification) exams, ensuring you meet state requirements to practice as a certified professional in diverse interpreting environments.
Upon obtaining your initial certification after graduation, you gain the professional traction needed to enter the field. This foundation serves as a vital pathway to specialized roles that require additional years of field experience or specific endorsements.
Your success is our top priority. We offer a community-driven program that combines rigorous academic standards with personalized support.
We provide immersive opportunities that allow you to build relationships and refine your skills in Deaf Community settings.
After completing the Sign Language Interpreter (SLI) degree, you will have a deep understanding of Deaf community, culture, and language. This comprehensive foundation is designed to prepare you for the credentialing exams required to become a qualified sign language interpreter.
These outcomes are what you can expect to learn through engagement of this program.
OCC Sign Language Interpreter students recently partnered with the deaf-blind community on a field trip to Eastern Market. While navigating the market, students practiced tactile signing and haptics, fostering valuable connections and a deeper understanding of Deaf-Blind communication.
View event photosJoanne Forbes, Sign Language Interpreter Faculty, co-authored the manuscript, “Perspectives of Perinatal Clinicians When Caring for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Patients” published in BMC (formerly BioMed Central) Pregnancy and Childbirth. This qualitative research study explores the experiences and perspectives of perinatal clinicians who have provided care for Deaf and hard of hearing patients to better understand barriers and facilitators to providing optimal pregnancy-related healthcare.
Sign Language Interpreter students have the opportunity to partner with our theatre department to sign during performances.
After completion of the OCC SLI program, you may aspire to obtain further education. Students can go on to acquire a degree in:
We know transferring can be stressful. We have articulation agreements with the following colleges and universities to make your transfer experience straightforward and save you money:
Ready to begin your studies? Get started now:
Complete the form below to receive updates about the program, upcoming events, information sessions, and enrollment deadlines.
Joanne Forbes
Faculty, CAH Department Chairperson
Orchard Ridge Campus
Phone: (248) 707-1380
Considering a Sign Language Interpreter degree? You might also be interested in these programs:
