40 Best Affordable American Sign Language Degree Programs (Bachelor’s) 2020

In the following article, we examine the top 40 best affordable American Sign Language degree programs. Earning a bachelor's in ASL opens up the door to many different careers as almost any field or workplace can benefit from hiring an employee who is fluent in ASL. Undergraduates looking to study this versatile area can typically choose from two different tracks: ASL language and Deaf culture/community or and ASL/English interpretation. While most ASL degrees are offered only on-campus, there are a select few that are available online. Keep reading to learn more about this field and to begin learning about the top 40 best affordable American Sign Language degree programs.

Methodology

To provide our readers with a comprehensive list of the best affordable American Sign Language degree programs, we awarded points to the following 40 schools based on three metrics related to affordability, class size, and student success. We decided on these 40 institutions by first searching for American Sign Language bachelor's degrees using the College Navigator tool at the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Since the search yielded 40 schools that matched our keyword phrase, we did not need to narrow down the list any further.

Average Cost of Attendance

Since this ranking is based on affordability, it goes without saying that we would award points based on the average cost of attendance. Although we understand the temptation to want to choose the cheapest program to save money, make sure that the school you are thinking offers more than just a low-cost ASL program. Are there opportunities for internships or real-world learning? Are there any extracurriculars or student clubs in the field of ASL that you can join? For this ranking, we awarded points based on the cost of one academic year of study for an in-state student using data provided by the NCES. We also provided rates for out-of-state students as well, though we did not use these figures to award points.

• Points:

• Under $7,500: 5 points

• $7,500 to $15,000: 3 points

• $15,001 and above: 1 point

Student-to-Faculty Ratio

Next, we looked at each school's student-to-faculty ratio and used this number as a window into class size. In most cases, universities with high ratios tend to provide larger classes, while colleges with low ratios are known for smaller academic environments. Ask yourself whether you need more accountability or whether you would like to get to know your peers and professors on a one-on-one basis. If so, a smaller school might be ideal. If you prefer to blend into the background, you might thrive better in a larger setting. Although there are pros and cons to each, for this article, we awarded the highest number of points to schools with the lowest ratios based on the following ranges from NCES.

• Points:

• 10:1 or less: 3 points

• 11:1 to 15:1: 2 points

• Greater than 15:1: 1 point

Graduation Rate

Finally, we looked at graduation rates to help prospective undergraduates determine whether a school is producing content and successful students. In other words, graduation rates can be used to measure student satisfaction and success. Schools with high rates are keeping their students happy, so they are more likely to stay enrolled, complete their course requirements, and earn their degrees. On the other hand, unhappy students might leave one school and finish their degrees somewhere else. Student dissatisfaction could be caused by any number of reasons such as inexperienced faculty, unaffordable programs, or poor academic support. Therefore, we awarded the most points to schools with the highest graduation rates, according to NCES.

• Points

• More than 50 percent: 3 points

• Between 30 percent and 50 percent: 2 points

• Less than 30 percent: 1 point

Ranking Top 40 Best Affordable American Sign Language Degree Programs

40. Liberty University

Lynchburg, Virginia

Liberty University is one of the most affordable colleges for an American Sign Language degree program.

Points: 4Program Website

Liberty University is a private Christian university that was established in 1971 as Lynchburg Baptist College. One of the largest Christian universities in the world, LU offers an affordable American Sign Language degree in the form of a high-value Bachelor of Arts in American Sign Language and Interpreting. The program teaches students how to bridge cultural and communication gaps as professional sign language interpreters. The curriculum involves coursework in Deaf studies, American Sign Language, and ASL linguistics. Students also examine the theory and application of fingerspelling and numbers. Beyond the classroom, LU offers practicum experiences and internships with Liberty University Interpreting Services, the school's own interpreting service agency, as well as other locations across the U.S.

39. MacMurray College

Jacksonville, Illinois

MacMurray College offers a best-value American Sign Language degree.

Points: 5

Established as the Illinois Conference Female Academy in 1846, MacMurray College is a private institution of higher education and one of the most affordable colleges for an American Sign Language degree. Students can choose from either a low-cost bachelor's degree in Deaf community services or a bachelor's degree in sign language interpreting. The curriculum allows students to become proficient in American Sign Language, develop entry-level interpreting skills, and demonstrate knowledge of Deaf culture. Beyond the classroom, MacMurray students can choose to volunteer, intern, work, or live at the nearby Illinois School for the Deaf.

38. North Central University

Minneapolis, Minnesota

North Central University offers an economical American Sign Language degree program.

Points: 5Program Website

Established in 1930, North Central University is a Christian liberal arts university affiliated with the Assemblies of God. Students seeking a low-cost American Sign Language degree can pursue NCU's high-value Bachelor of Arts in American Sign Language Interpreting. The program requires 124 credit hours of study and features two separate areas of study: an interpreting core and a Deaf studies core. Topics covered include interpreting theory and practice, trends in interpreting, social and cultural implications of Deaf history, and human relations. Students complete a senior project and an interpreting internship before graduating.

37. Mount Aloysius College

Cresson, Pennsylvania

Mount Aloysius College offers a high-value American Sign Language degree program.

Points: 5Program Website

Mount Aloysius College is a private institution of higher education affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church. Established in 1853 by the Sisters of Mercy, MAC offers an affordable bachelor's degree in American Sign Language and English interpreting that is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Interpreter Education (CCIE). The curriculum teaches students how to communicate within two different languages and cultures. MAC offers an effective learning environment with small classes as well as interactive, high-tech ASL computer labs. Beyond the classroom, the school provides opportunities for majors to participate in weekly lunches with the Deaf community, monthly social gatherings with members of the area's Deaf community, and a biennial student-run interpreting conference.

36. Clemson University

Clemson, South Carolina

Clemson University offers an affordable American Sign Language degree.

Points: 5Program Website

Established in 1889 as Clemson Agricultural College of South Carolina, Clemson University is a public land-grant research university and a top choice for students seeking a cost-effective American Sign Language degree. At Clemson University, undergraduates can pursue a low-cost Bachelor of Arts in World Languages degree with a concentration in ASL. A key partner in the ASL program is the ASL Student Club. Here, students meet regularly and organize socials, guest lectures, and events to bring together Clemson ASL students and the Deaf community. An 18-credit-hour ASL-English educational interpreting program in the form of an undergraduate specialist certificate is also available.

35. Lamar University

Beaumont, Texas

Lamar University offers a low-cost American Sign Language degree.

Points: 5Program Website

Lamar University is a public university and a member of the Texas State University System. Established in 1923, Lamar is also recognized as one of the most affordable universities for an American Sign Language degree. The school's low-priced Bachelor of Arts in American Sign Language features three separate tracks for interpreting, teaching, and advocacy. The interpreting track prepares students for careers in ASL interpreting, the education track prepares students to teach in the EC-12 classroom, and the advocacy track prepares students for careers in advocacy in which they work with deaf individuals. Program techniques include the use of digital video technology, lab activities, research, community interaction, and both bilingual-bicultural comparison classes and immersion.

34. Maryville College

Maryville, Tennessee

Maryville College offers an affordable American Sign Language degree program.

Points: 6Program Website

Established in 1819, Maryville College is a private liberal arts college affiliated with the Presbyterian Church and the 12th-oldest institution of higher education in the South. Maryville students looking for an economical American Sign Language degree can pursue a high-value Bachelor of Arts in American Sign Language and Deaf Studies. The curriculum emphasizes Deaf culture, the creative expression and structure of the language, and the development of fluency of ASL. On-campus resources include ASL and interpreting labs that provide one-on-one work with nationally certified interpreting mentors and Sigma Lambda Kappa, a campus organization that provides opportunities for students to become involved in the Deaf community. Maryville also offers a major in ASL-English Interpreting for students looking to become ASL interpreters.

33. Goshen College

Goshen, Indiana

Goshen College is an affordable accredited college for American Sign Language degrees.

Points: 6Program Website

Founded in 1894 as the Elkhart Institute of Science, Industry and the Arts, Goshen College is a private liberal arts college. Students looking for a high-value American Sign Language degree can pursue several options at Goshen. First, the inexpensive sign language interpreting major prepares students for careers as professional sign language interpreters. Coursework examines ASL and Deaf history, ethics, and interpretation. Other areas of study include transliterating with a focus on educational interpreting, sign-to-voice interpreting, and medical interpreting. Goshen also offers an American Sign Language education major that prepares students to teach ASL as a language option to hearing students at the high school and middle school levels. Students take ASL classes and education classes. They also spend a semester studying at Gallaudet University in DC.

32. Gardner-Webb University

Boiling Springs, North Carolina

Gardner-Webb University offers a cost-effective American Sign Language degree.

Points: 6

Gardner-Webb University is a private Baptist university that was founded as Boiling Springs High School in 1905, making it the youngest Baptist-affiliated university in the state. GWU offers an affordable Bachelor of Arts in American Sign Language that prepares students for careers in communicating with hard-of-hearing and deaf individuals. Students complete 36 credit hours for the major as well as a capstone project. Beyond the classroom, students may join the Deaf Club to promote deaf awareness and assistance for the Deaf community. Other extracurriculars include ASL-based international mission trips, the ASL Table, and Joyful Hands, a ministry team sign language choir. After graduation, students earn an advanced or higher on the Sign Language Proficiency Interview (SLPI).

31. Madonna University

Livonia, Michigan

Madonna University offers a top-value American Sign Language degree.

Points: 6Program Website

Established in 1937, Madonna University is a private Catholic liberal arts institution of higher education. The school offers a best-value American Sign Language degree in the form of a best-value Bachelor of Arts in Sign Language Interpreting. The program allows students to develop ASL skills as well as an understanding of the language and the Deaf community. The curriculum is divided into major prerequisites, major core courses, interpreting classes, and recommended support courses. Through extensive practice and training over four years, students prepare to become professional ASL interpreters. Madonna University also offers related sign language degrees in ASL education and Deaf studies.

30. Gallaudet University

Washington, DC

Gallaudet University is one of the most affordable universities for an American Sign Language degree.

Points: 6Program Website

Gallaudet University is a private institution of higher learning for the education of the deaf and hard-of-hearing. Founded in 1864, Gallaudet University was initially a grammar school for both blind and deaf children. It was the first institution of advanced education for deaf and hard-of-hearing students in the world. Today, it is the only university in which all services and programs are designed to accommodate these students. Gallaudet provides an affordable American Sign Language degree in the form of a Bachelor of Arts in American Sign Language. Students complete 120 hours of study in areas like ASL instruction, ASL research, ASL data analysis and applications, Deaf culture, and sign language rights and advocacy. Gallaudet also offers a traditional B.A. in Deaf Studies and a B.A. in Deaf Studies degree-completion program.

29. University of New Hampshire at Manchester

Manchester, New Hampshire

The University of New Hampshire at Manchester offers a low-cost American Sign Language degree.

Points: 6Program Website

Founded in 1985, the University of New Hampshire at Manchester is a public institution of higher education and a member of the University of New Hampshire System. Recognized as one of the most affordable universities for an American Sign Language degree, UNH Manchester offers a low-cost Bachelor of Science in ASL/English Interpreting. The program is one of only 14 accredited degrees of its kind in the U.S. The curriculum is divided into culture and linguistics courses, language courses, and interpreting classes. Students must complete 64 credits in the major, including a capstone experience, to earn their degree.

28. University of Northern Colorado

Greeley, Colorado

The University of Northern Colorado offers an affordable American Sign Language degree program.

Points: 6Program Website

Founded as the State Normal School of Colorado in 1889, the University of Northern Colorado is a public research university with a history of teacher education. Undergraduates looking for an affordable degree in American Sign Language can pursue a high-value Bachelor of Arts in American Sign Language-English Interpretation at UNC. The four-year program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Interpreter Education and developed around 34 performance standards related to theory and knowledge, professionalism, interpreting skills, language skills, and human relations. Students complete 120 credits of study and can choose from two majors: educational interpreting and community interpreting.

27. University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee is one of the most affordable universities for American Sign Language degrees.

Points: 6Program Website

The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee is a public research university and a member of the University of Wisconsin System. Established in 1885 as Milwaukee Normal School, UWM offers the only four-year bachelor's degree for ASL interpreting in Wisconsin. The inexpensive degree program's curriculum aligns with standards set by the Commission on Collegiate Interpreter Education. Undergraduates complete courses in interpreting and delve into interpretation in different settings. This includes interpreting in K-12 institutions and post-secondary schools. Other areas of focus include video relay interpreting and mental health interpreting. Students complete 121 credits of study and they are encouraged to round out their degree with a Cultures & Communities Certificate.

26. University of Arkansas at Little Rock

Little Rock, Arkansas

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock offers a low-cost American Sign Language degree.

Points: 6Program Website

Founded in 1927 as Little Rock Junior College, the University of Arkansas at Little Rock is a public research university and a solid choice for undergraduates seeking a top-value American Sign Language degree. UA Little Rock offers a cheap Bachelor of Arts in Interpretation: ASL/English that consists of 102 hours of study in the major as well as an 18-hour minor in educational interpreting. Areas of study include ASL, fingerspelling, Deaf culture, interpreting and interpreting research, and advanced transliteration. Once students complete all university core, interpretation, and minor courses, they are required to participate in an internship.

25. Utah State University

Logan, Utah

Utah State University offers a high-value American Sign Language degree program.

Points: 6Program Website

Utah State University is a public research university and Utah's largest public residential campus by enrollment. Established as Utah's agricultural college in 1888, USU offers an economical associate-to-bachelor's degree-completion program in communication disorders and deaf education. After earning an Associate of Applied Science or Associate of Science in American Sign Language Interpreting, undergraduates can complete an additional 40 credit hours of study and earn a Bachelor of Science degree. The curriculum builds on interpreting skills to prepare future professionals for careers as ASL interpreters. The program is available entirely online, and students can enroll on a part- or full-time basis.

24. University of Rochester

Rochester, New York

University of Rochester is an accredited university for an American Sign Language degree.

Points: 7Program Website

Established in 1850, the University of Rochester is a private research university and one of the most affordable universities for an American Sign Language degree. UR offers a high-value four-year major in American Sign Language that is comprised of 12 classes: eight electives and four core courses. Areas of study include linguistics and psycholinguistics, ASL literature and culture, the structure of signed languages, intermediate ASL, and advanced ASL. Faculty members pursue interdisciplinary research through the Department of Linguistics, the Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, and the Center for Language Sciences. Graduates are prepared for careers in counseling, research, interpreting, law, medicine, and Deaf education.

23. St. Catherine University

St. Paul, Minnesota

St. Catherine University offers a best-value American Sign Language degree program.

Points: 7Program Website

St. Catherine University is a private liberal arts college affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church. Established as the College of St. Catherine, one of the first post-secondary institutions for women in the Midwest, St. Kate's offers an affordable bachelor's degree in American Sign Language. The curriculum requires 32 credits of study per year for four years. Topics of focus include fingerspelling, American Deaf culture, conversational ASL, healthcare interpreting, and educational interpreting. An internship is also required for graduation. St. Catherine University's Department of American Sign Language and Interpreting is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Interpreter Education.

22. Keuka College

Keuka Park, New York

Keuka College offers an affordable American Sign Language degree program.

Points: 7Program Website

Keuka College is a private college that emphasizes career and pre-professional education as well as experiential learning. Founded in 1890, Keuka College offers an affordable Bachelor of Arts in American Sign Language that focuses on direct instruction in the language as well as immersion into Deaf culture. Classes foster an understanding of ASL/Deaf history, culture, linguistics, and literature. In addition to completing coursework, students benefit from internships and other hands-on learning experiences in which they can apply what they have learned outside the classroom. The school's proximity to nearby Rochester, home to the largest population of deaf residents per capita in the U.S., provides additional opportunities for ASL majors.

21. William Woods University

Fulton, Missouri

William Woods University offers a cost-effective American Sign Language degree program.

Points: 7Program Website

William Woods University is a private institution of higher education that was founded as the Female Orphan School in 1870. Students looking for an affordable online American Sign Language degree can pursue WWU's low-cost online Bachelor of Science in Interpretation Studies in ASL-English. The program is designed for students who have earned an associate degree in interpreting as well as for working interpreters who hold certification but who want to earn a bachelor's degree. The curriculum provides a greater understanding of Deaf culture, and students learn how to interpret legal, mental health, medical, and other specialties. After completing the program, graduates are eligible to sit for National Interpreter Certification (NIC) administered by the Center for the Assessment of Sign Language Interpretation (CASLI).

20. Montclair State University

Montclair, New Jersey

Montclair State University offers a low-cost American Sign Language degree.

Points: 7Program Website

Montclair State University is a public research university that was established in 1908 as New Jersey State Normal School at Montclair. An affordable, accredited university for an American Sign Language degree, MSU offers a low-priced Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics with a concentration in American Sign Language/English interpreting. Through a rigorous curriculum, undergraduates develop a sizeable vocabulary, learn the basic structures of ASL, and gain the ability to participate in conversations. Students also gain a grounding in ASL components ranging from discourse and meaning to sound and sign. Graduates are prepared for careers as ASL interpreters, teachers, and speech-language pathologists.

19. Bloomsburg University

Bloomsburg, pennsylvania

Bloomsburg University offers an economical American Sign Language degree program.

Points: 7Program Website

The Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania, known simply as Bloomsburg University, is a public institution of higher education and a member of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE). Established in 1839, BU offers an affordable American Sign Language/English Interpreting program that is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Interpreter Education. One of just two four-year ASL/English interpreting programs in the eastern U.S., the program consists of six semesters of ASL courses in which students are exposed to Deaf culture and the linguistics of ASL. They also receive specialized interpreter training via courses in transliteration, translation, and both simultaneous and consecutive interpreting. A seminar and practicum experience are also required for graduation.

18. The University of Texas at Austin

Austin, Texas

The University of Texas at Austin offers a low-cost American Sign Language degree program.

Points: 7Program Website

Established in 1881, the University of Texas at Austin is a public research university and the flagship institution of the University of Texas System. UT Austin's Department of Linguistics confers an affordable American Sign Language degree program that not only offers best-value ASL language instruction but also provides advanced training in research on the linguistics of signed languages. Students complete core university requirements as well as four upper-division ASL-focused courses that focus on advanced ASL conversation, signed languages and signing communities, ASL literature and Deaf culture, and an undergraduate research experience conducted in the UT Signed Language Research Lab.

17. Kent State University

Kent, Ohio

Kent State University offers an affordable American Sign Language degree.

Points: 7Program Website

Established in 1910 as a teacher-training school, Kent State University is a public research university and one of the most affordable universities for an American Sign Language degree. KSU offers a low-cost Bachelor of Arts in American Sign Language that presents ASL as a community- and culture-based language that interacts with other world languages. The high-value degree program implements techniques like lab activities, research, community interaction, bilingual-bicultural comparison classes, and the use of digital video technology. Students not only gain proficiency in ASL but they also learn how to network within the professional community and earn validity within the Deaf community.

16. Western Oregon University

Monmouth, Oregon

Western Oregon University offers a cost-effective American Sign Language degree program.

Points: 7Program Website

Western Oregon University is a public institution of higher education and an affordable university for an American Sign Language Degree. Founded in 1856, WOU offers a cheap Bachelor of Arts in American Sign Language Studies that promotes respect for the Deaf community, Deaf history, and Deaf culture. The curriculum allows students to hone their ASL skills while also studying areas like mental health, cultural competence, language acquisition, and linguistics. Students also examine how this information can help the Deaf population. Students must complete 60 credits for the major beyond second-year ASL coursework. Graduates are prepared for careers in Deaf education, Deaf rehabilitation counseling, consulting, interpreting, and research.

15. Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis

Indianapolis, Indiana

Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis offers an affordable American Sign Language degree.

Points: 7Program Website

Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis is a public research university that was established in 1969. The school is a core campus of Indiana University that also provides academic degrees from Purdue University. IUPUI confers an affordable Bachelor of Science in American Sign Language/English Interpreting that prepares graduates to become entry-level ASL community interpreters. The curriculum includes coursework in the theory and process of interpreting, interpreting discourse, text analysis, the linguistics of ASL, and the culture and history of the American Deaf community. A 15-week hands-on practicum experience is also required for graduation.

14. Georgia State University

Atlanta, Georgia

Georgia State University is one of the most affordable universities for American Sign Language degree programs.

Points: 7Program Website

Established in 1913 as the Georgia Tech Evening School of Commerce, Georgia State University is a public research university and one of four campuses that make up the University System of Georgia. Students can pursue GSU's low-cost Bachelor of Arts in Sign Language Interpreting and complete a minimum of 120 semester hours of study. Classes cover areas like educational interpreting, service-learning, Deaf history and culture, and ASL narrative and discourse. Students also develop their ASL-to-English and English-to-ASL interpreting skills. A hands-on, real-world practicum experience is required for graduation.

13. Texas Tech University

Lubbock, Texas

Texas Tech University offers a low-cost American Sign Language degree.

Points: 7Program Website

Texas Tech University is a public research university that was founded in 1923 as Texas Technological College. Undergraduates looking for a cost-effective American Sign Language degree can pursue Texas Tech's affordable Bachelor of Arts in Languages and Cultures with a concentration in American Sign Language/English Interpretation. In addition to completing core major coursework, students take classes in languages and cultures, ASL, Deaf culture, and community interpreting. Students must also complete a course in the observation and interpretation of business practices as well as a seminar and field experience.

12. University of Houston

Houston, Texas

The University of Houston offers a best-value American Sign Language degree program.

Points: 7Program Website

Established in 1927, the University of Houston is a public research university and the main campus of the University of Houston System. UH undergraduates can pursue an affordable Bachelor of Arts in Sign Language Interpreting that provides both a linguistic and cultural immersion in the classroom setting. Topics of study include ASL, multiculturalism and diversity, simultaneous interpreting, the history and culture of the American Deaf community, and interpreting techniques and skills in ASL/English. ASL courses are taught by deaf professors, and students can interact with professional interpreters and members of the Deaf community. After completing the program's requirements, graduates are qualified to pass the entry-level Board of Evaluation of Interpreters certification exam.

11. University of Nebraska at Omaha

Omaha, Nebraska

The University of Nebraska at Omaha is one of the most affordable colleges for American Sign Language degrees.

Points: 7Program Website

Founded in 1908 as the University of Omaha, the University of Nebraska at Omaha is a public research university and a member of the University of Nebraska System. Undergraduates looking for a low-cost American Sign Language degree can pursue UNO's affordable bachelor's degree in sign language interpreting — the only program of its kind in the state. Through a rigorous curriculum, undergraduates gain fluency in ASL as well as theoretical knowledge and advanced linguistic and cultural knowledge. Graduates are prepared to sit for national certification to become certified interpreters.

10. University of Louisville

Louisville, Kentucky

The University of Louisville offers an economical American Sign Language degree.

Points: 8Program Website

The University of Louisville is a public research university and a member school of the Kentucky State University System. Founded in 1798 as Jefferson Seminar, U of L provides an affordable Bachelor of Science in American Sign Language Interpreting Studies. The cheap, 124-hour degree program prepares students to function as qualified interpreters. The curriculum teaches ASL and provides a foundation in the basics of ASL linguistics, the fundamentals of the interpreting process, and Deaf culture and history. It also emphasizes cultural and communicative competence as well as critical thinking abilities.

9. Framingham State University

Framingham, Massachusetts

Framingham State University offers a low-cost American Sign Language degree.

Points: 8Program Website

Founded in 1839, Framingham State University is a public university and a top choice among undergraduates looking for an affordable degree in American Sign Language. Framingham offers a low-cost Bachelor of Arts in American Sign Language degree with concentrations in Deaf studies and ASL/English Interpreting. All students take core language courses in ASL language and linguistics. Specific topics of study depend on the concentration chosen. Both programs provide students with a foundation in ASL and include classes that cover the literature, culture, and history of the American Deaf community within a social justice framework.

8. Piedmont International University

Winston-Salem, North Carolina

Piedmont International University offers a best-value American Sign Language degree.

Points: 8Program Website

Established in 1945, Piedmont International University is a private Christin Bible college and graduate school. PIU offers a low-cost Bachelor of Science in Deaf Studies that focuses on human services needs and communication accessibility of hard-of-hearing, deaf-disabled, deaf-blind, and deaf individuals. The curriculum combines practical hands-on communication experiences with traditional classroom academics. Students can choose from two concentrations: Deaf community services and sign language interpreting. Both programs allow students to gain proficiency in ASL and develop an appreciation of the Deaf community. A strong core of general education and biblical courses is also provided in both concentrations.

7. Valdosta State University

Valdosta, Georgia

Valdosta State University offers a cost-effective American Sign Language degree program.

Points: 8Program Website

Established in 1906, Valdosta State University is a public institution of higher learning and one of four comprehensive universities that make up the University System of Georgia. VSU offers a 126-credit-hour cheap Bachelor of Science in Education American Sign Language/English Interpreting — the only program of its kind in Georgia. Students develop transliteration and interpreting skills while gaining an understanding of the interpreter's role in schools. Beyond the classroom, students participate in internships within local public schools, practicum experiences, and field labs. Graduates are prepared to take national and state exams for interpreter proficiency. VSU reports that 95 percent of graduates are employed after earning their degrees.

6. Utah Valley University

Orem, Utah

Utah Valley University offers cheap American Sign Language degree program.

Points: 8Program Website

Utah Valley University is a public university that was established in 1941 as Central Utah Vocational School. Students pursuing UVU's low-priced Bachelor of Arts in Deaf Studies can choose from a general emphasis or an interpreting emphasis. The general emphasis allows students to develop advanced ASL skills and a solid understanding of the Deaf world. The interpreting emphasis allows students to focus on developing interpreting skills to prepare for certification. UVU also offers a four-year degree in ASL and Deaf studies education as well as a Bachelor of Arts or Science in Integrated Studies with an emphasis in ASL.

5. California State University-Sacramento

Sacramento, California

California State University-Sacramento is one of the most affordable colleges for American Sign Language degree programs.

Points: 9Program Website

Founded as Sacramento State College in 1947, California State University-Sacramento is a public university and the 11th-oldest school in the 23-campus California State University System. CSU-Sacramento offers an inexpensive Bachelor of Arts in American Sign Language and Deaf Studies that takes an interdisciplinary approach to the study of hard-of-hearing and deaf people in U.S. and world societies. The curriculum requires 41 to 44 units of study in the major, covering topics like ASL, fingerspelling, ASL literature, sign language structure and usage, and Deaf history, culture, and community. Undergraduates may combine the major with a minor in education, speech therapy, audiology, or counseling.

4. Minot State University

Minot, North Dakota

Minot State University offers a high-value American Sign Language degree.

Points: 9Program Website

Minot State University is a public institution of higher learning and the third-largest university by enrollment in the state. Founded as a normal school in 1913, MSU offers a cost-effective Bachelor of Applied Science in Interpreting and Sign Language Studies that prepares graduates for sign language interpreting in both education and community settings. The high-value curriculum provides a foundation in ASL as well as core skills and knowledge in interpreting. Students also take classes in special education and disability services. Two pathways are available: Path 1 is designed for students who hold an associate degree in interpreting, while Path 2 is intended for those who have not yet completed interpreting coursework.

3. California State University-Northridge

Northridge, California

California State University-Northridge offers a low-cost American Sign Language degree.

Points: 9Program Website

California State University-Northridge is a public institution of higher education and the second-largest campus by enrollment in the 23-school California State University System. Established in 1958 as San Fernando Valley State College, Cal State Northridge offers an affordable Bachelor of Arts in Deaf Studies. Core requirements include classes in linguistics, sign language, and other topics related to the social experiences, history, culture, and language of the Deaf community. Students can choose from an individualized concentration or complete one of five other affordable degree concentrations: Deaf Cultural Studies, Deaf Community Services, Pre-Deaf Education, ASL and ASL Literature, or ASL/English Interpreting.

2. California State University-Long Beach

Long Beach, California

California State University-Long Beach offers a cost-effective American Sign Language degree program.

Points: 9Program Website

Established in 1949 as Los Angeles-Orange County State College, California State University-Long Beach is a public university and the third-largest campus of the 23-school California State University System. CSULB offers a top-value Bachelor of Arts in ASL Linguistics and Deaf Cultures as well as an option in ASL-English interpreting within the major. The low-cost B.A. program requires 50 units of coursework in areas like ASL, the American Deaf culture, and linguistics. Other topics of study include language and culture, global Deaf culture and languages, and modern English grammar. Graduates are prepared for advanced study or careers in social work, teaching, nursing, law, and other service professions.

1. University of North Florida

Jacksonville, Florida

The University of North Florida is ranked as the best affordable college for American Sign Language degree programs.

Points: 9Program Website

Topping our list of the most affordable universities for an American Sign Language degree is the University of North Florida. Established in 1965, UNF is a public university and a member of the State University System of Florida. UNF offers a cheap Bachelor of Science in ASL/English Interpreting that is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Interpreter Education. The curriculum contains advanced coursework in applied ethics, community engagement, translating and interpreting skill development, and language development. A concentration in Community Interpreting is also available. Courses are offered through a combination of distance and hybrid technologies. Graduates are prepared to sit for national certification administered by the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Career Options for a Bachelor's in American Sign Language Degree?

Simply put, the career options are nearly endless with a Bachelor's in American Sign Language. After all, ASL can be applied to almost any industry in some way. Therefore, qualified students with knowledge and experience in ASL are often in very high demand. Interpreters are needed in government agencies and institutions, business meetings, theaters, medical offices, hospitals, and schools as well as at social and community events. Some popular career options to think about when considering an undergraduate degree in ASL:

• ASL/Sign Language Interpreter

• Medical Interpreter

• Social Worker

• Deaf Educator

• Freelancer

• Child Care Worker

• Employment Counselor for the Deaf

In addition to being fluent in ASL, there are many other skills that good interpreters need, regardless of their specific position or employer. Knowledge of grammar and syntax, as well as a strong memory and solid hand-eye coordination, are a must. If one is going to pursue a career involving interpreting for people, around people, and with people, it makes sense that he or she should have outstanding people skills. He or she also needs to be caring, professional, respectful, and be able to actively listen. Interpreters should have the ability to assess the conversation and adapt their services based on the client's needs. While fluency is necessary, interpreters also need to understand the ethics and principles behind interpretation, how to convey both literal and implied meaning, and how to quickly switch between languages.

What is the Salary Potential for a Bachelor's in American Sign Language Degree?

As we have seen, undergraduates who earn a Bachelor's in American Sign Language degree can work in nearly any industry, in almost every position. Therefore, it is impossible to narrow down salary potential to one specific career. Earnings also depend on many factors like the type and size of the employer as well as education, experience, skill, specialty, language, and certification. However, we dug a little deeper and consulted with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) to gather some information about one of the most popular career options that one can attain with a bachelor's in ASL: an ASL interpreter.

The BLS reports that interpreters and translators earned an average yearly salary of $49,930 per year, or $24 per hour, as of May 2018. The median annual wages for these professionals in the top industries in which they worked were:

• Technical, scientific, and professional services: $55,450

• Government: $54,940

• Private, local, and state hospitals: $49,560

• Private, local, and state educational services: $47,940

Employment of interpreters and translators is expected to grow 19 percent from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations. Although this statistic also includes interpreters and translators for spoken languages, the demand for ASL interpreters is expected to increase due to the growing use of video relay services. These allow people to use a sign language interpreter and conduct online video calls.

What Will You Learn About in a Bachelor's in American Sign Language Degree Program?

Generally speaking, there are two ASL-related degree tracks that students can pursue: ASL language and Deaf culture or ASL/English interpretation. The first program is designed for students with little to no knowledge of ASL. These students are interested in learning more about ASL and becoming more familiar with Deaf society, Deaf culture, and other aspects of the Deaf community and deafness. The second program helps to prepare undergraduates for a career in ASL/English translation and interpretation. In some cases, these programs may also prepare undergraduates to sit for an ASL/English interpreter certification examination.

Bachelor's degrees in ASL language and Deaf culture allow students to develop fluency in ASL. They also become familiar with Deaf culture, the Deaf community, and the unique characteristics of each. While these four-year programs do not typically prepare students for certification and/or careers as ASL/English interpreters, students can apply what they have learned in careers that involve supporting or working closely with the Deaf community.

Undergraduates pursuing the ASL/English interpreting track may wish to choose a program that is not only regionally accredited but also accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Interpreter Education. Coursework in ASL/English interpreting allows students to become fully fluent in ASL and learn the ethics, standards, and methods of interpreting. These four-year programs may also include work opportunities and internships with local Deaf organizations or communities. After completing the bachelor's requirements, students may be eligible to sit for the National Interpreter Certification Exam administered by the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf.

As you narrow down your options, remember to consider the entire program as a whole instead of focusing solely on the cheapest programs. We hope that our list of the 40 best affordable American Sign Language degree programs serves as a valuable resource to help you select the best possible program for your academic needs and professional goals.

AS Staff

This concludes our ranking of the top 40 best affordable American Sign Language degree programs.

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