To celebrate International Week of the Deaf and Deaf Awareness Month, CWI’s ASL Club and Student Disability Services hosted a few events.
Read more about CWI Celebrates International Week of the Deaf and Deaf Awareness MonthSign Language Studies
Discover the Diverse Career Opportunities in Teaching, Interpreting, and More
Program Overview
Are you drawn to the rich language and culture of the American Sign Language (ASL) community? At College of Western Idaho (CWI), the Sign Language Studies program immerses you in ASL, offering an unparalleled opportunity to develop both expressive and receptive skills. This comprehensive Associate of Arts degree program is not just about language proficiency; it is a journey into cultural understanding and connection with the local Deaf community. Whether you aspire to be a teacher, interpreter, or speech-language pathologist, this program lays the foundation for diverse and rewarding career paths.
By completing this program, you will meet the general education requirements of all Idaho public universities, ready to transfer for further studies. Your experience in the program will be enriched through local events, community service, and symposiums, deepening your cultural awareness and empathy. This program is ideal for those who value linguistic diversity and are committed to lifelong learning and personal and professional success in the field of ASL and Deaf studies.
Degree or Certificate Type
Associate of Arts
Cost
Additional cost may apply.
Time to Complete
2 years
Primary Locations
Learning Opportunities
- ASL Language Proficiency: Develop advanced expressive and receptive language skills in ASL.
- Cultural Immersion: Gain deep insights into Deaf culture and community through immersive learning experiences.
- Critical Thinking & Comparative Analysis: Enhance your understanding of cultural perspectives and engage in meaningful comparisons.
- Research Skills in ASL: Conduct research using written and signed discourse, improving information literacy.
- Preparation for Diverse Careers: Equip yourself for careers in teaching, interpreting, speech-language pathology, and more.
Areas of Study
Degrees & Certificates
Sign Language Studies – Associate of Arts Degree
Degree Requirements
Cost: $9,580
Career Opportunities
Postsecondary Teachers
1063
Annual Openings*
$35.10
Hourly Median Wage*
$73,008
Annual Median Salary
18.28%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
Teach one or more subjects to students at the secondary school level.
427
Annual Openings*
$29.52
Hourly Median Wage*
$61,402
Annual Median Salary
5.34%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
Interpreters and Translators
Interpret oral or sign language, or translate written text from one language into another.
42
Annual Openings*
$26.45
Hourly Median Wage*
$55,016
Annual Median Salary
8.19%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
*Data sourced from Lightcast™, a labor market analytics tool, and limited to the state of Idaho. Contact CWI Institutional Research for questions regarding this data. Career pathways may require further education beyond CWI.
Admissions
Step 1
- Apply to CWI.
- Choose Sign Language Studies as your major.
Step 2
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Cost & Aid
As a student in this program, you may be eligible for financial aid and scholarships.
Enrichment Opportunities
Enhance your academic experience, expand your knowledge, reach your goals, and celebrate your achievements.
Advising
Already a student? We are here to help you navigate your educational journey, connect you to academic and support resources, and achieve your academic or career goals.
Transfer Information
Plan ahead for a smooth transition to a four-year college or university.
Clubs
ASL Club
We are passionate about American Sign Language (ASL) and Deaf culture, supporting the Deaf community, events, and more! As a club, we strive to create a safe and welcoming place to utilize signing skills, make lasting friendships, and promote a...
News
Congratulations to Arts and Humanities Administrative Assistant, Kayla Adams, College of Western Idaho’s Staff of the Month for April 2022.
Read more about Adams Named Staff of the Month for April
“CWI empowered me to believe in myself and in a better future.”
Read more about Leading by Example
The ASL Club is looking forward to some fun this semester!
Read more about ASL Club Launches for Fall 2018 Semester
Sherry Matthews has been named College of Western Idaho’s Faculty of Distinction for June 2018.
Read more about Faculty of Distinction—June 2018
"Because of CWI, I am successful in achieving my dreams."
Read more about Erin T.Request More Information
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