BSc in American Sign LanguageEnglish Interpreting in Boston United States | Northeastern University

American Sign Language (ASL) ranks as the third most commonly used language across the United States, with growing societal recognition in recent times. Approximately 500,000 to 2 million Deaf, DeafBlind, or hard of hearing individuals in the U.S. rely on ASL as their primary means of communication, alongside many hearing individuals who learn ASL as an additional language. Members of the Deaf Community often face socioeconomic challenges at higher rates, stemming from their dual identity as both a linguistic-cultural minority and a disability group. This situation fosters widespread misconceptions about Deaf signers' language, culture, and daily realities, creating obstacles to education and employment. Although legislation at state and federal levels has enhanced civic participation for Deaf, hard of hearing, and DeafBlind citizens, ongoing efforts are needed to improve quality of life, promote equity, and highlight the valuable contributions of this diverse community. Northeastern University's ASL and Interpreting program tackles social disparities and strengthens cultural awareness by focusing on the ASL-using minority population—Deaf, hard of hearing, and DeafBlind individuals. Through rigorous faculty-led instruction and personalized student mentorship, comparable to training in fields like law, medicine, and social work, students develop advanced ASL-English interpreting skills.