Interpreter Training Preparation
Certificate
Description
Agencies throughout the United States look to hire trained and credentialed interpreters who are certified members of the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID), a national membership organization that plays a leading role in advocating for excellence in the delivery of interpretation and transliteration services between people who use sign language and people who use spoken language. To be certified, an interpreter must have a baccalaureate degree and pass the National Interpreter Certification (NIC) exam. Holders of this certification demonstrate a broad knowledge of the field of interpreting, are ethical decision-makers, possess exceptional interpreting skills, and are highly employable. The RID also has numerous associate members who are not certified yet engaged in interpreting and transliterating; however, they do not hold a certification accepted by RID. Therefore, their opportunities to work are more infrequent and pay is much less than certified interpreters. Those interested in becoming nationally certified need technical training to prepare for the NIC but locating a training program can be challenging. Most programs are in-person and require four years of study with a curriculum beginning with learning basic ASL. Our certificate is delivered online and helps create a pathway for people to learn the technical aspects of interpreting while preparing for the NIC.
Program Learning Outcomes
- Communicate effectively in American Sign Language and English
- Provide culturally responsive and impartial services to all consumers and clients
- Maintain a high standard of ethics and professionalism
Admissions Requirements
- Communication proficiency in ASL as demonstrated by a Sign Language Proficiency Interview (SLPI) score of Intermediate Plus or above
- A bachelor’s degree or equivalent from a recognized college or university
- GPA of 2.0 or higher
- Official transcripts from all previously attended schools
- Completed application with Carolina University
- Complete a written and ASL video essay
Graduation Requirements
In order to become a candidate for graduation a student:
- Shall complete all credit hours at CU;
- Shall have maintained a minimum academic average of C (higher for some programs);
- Shall have passed all courses in his/her curriculum and made a C or better in key courses designated as essential in each program.