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Help Your Community with an American Sign Language Interpreting Certificate from NECC

A student in the ASL program at our NECC Campus

Expand your career as an ASL Interpreter

Do you have an associate degree or higher? Would you like to add job skills to your resume – ones that could help you be more marketable while exploring exciting careers as a Certified ASL Interpreter? If so, earning an Interpreting Certificate in American Sign Language (ASL) from NECC could be your ticket to an enriching career that connects you with members of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community.

Signing Up for Success: NECC Degrees Speak Volumes

At NECC, our intensive ASL Interpreting Certificate program is for those with an associate degree or higher who wish to continue their education and build a foundation in American Sign Language, the Deaf and Hard of Hearing culture, and interpreting.

Once you’ve completed our program, you’ll be prepared to take the Massachusetts Interpreter Screening exam through the Massachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (MCDHH). MCDHH-certified interpreters are eligible to pursue a variety of entry-level jobs at schools, mental health agencies, social services agencies, government agencies, non-profit organizations, healthcare facilities, and more.

You’ll also have the option of working independently as a freelance interpreter.

American Sign Language Degree Program at NECC

View video on the NECC YouTube Channel.

What You’ll Get from Our ASL Program

Learn the Language. Live the Culture.

Dive deep into the world of American Sign Language with a mix of grammar, vocabulary, and all the things that make language tick. At NECC, it’s not just about signing – it’s about understanding the Deaf and Hard of Hearing culture and becoming an integral part of an amazing community.

Do Cool Stuff, Not Just Homework

Forget about endless lectures. We’re talking about interactive classes and workshops where you practice what you’ve learned in real-life scenarios, as well as projects that connect you with the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community.

Gear Up for a Great Career As a Certified ASL Interpreter

At NECC, we’re here to help you build a skill set that’s in demand. Whether you see yourself as an Agency Interpreter, Freelance Interpreter, Contracted Interpreter, On-Site Interpreter, or something else, we’ve got you covered. While guiding you every step of the way, our experienced instructors will show you how to:

  • An emoji version of the NECC Knight giving a thumbs upLearn about the language, culture, and community of Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals.
  • Take advantage of networking opportunities with alumni and professionals in the community.
  • Be more marketable by adding an ASL Certificate to your associate or bachelor’s degree.
  • Prepare to take the Massachusetts Interpreter Screening Exam through the Massachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (MCDHH). MCDHH-approved interpreters are eligible for entry-level interpreting work.

Your Schedule, Your Rules

Juggling life, work, and study? No sweat. With a mix of online and on-campus options, NECC makes it easy for you to fit study into your life, not the other way around.


Quote:

NECC has a great ASL program … it’s flexible and affordable.”

Lina Garcia Kosko, ASL Studies: Interpreting Transfer


Where This Journey Can Take You

An illustration of support for every student - students climbing a bar graphImagine yourself serving in one of these roles:

  • Agency ASL Interpreter
  • Freelance ASL Interpreter
  • Contracted ASL Interpreter
  • On-Site ASL Interpreter
  • Many more!

Why Choose NECC for Your ASL Certificate?

We Get It

At NECC, inspiring our students to succeed is our top priority. Modern, relevant, and engaging, our American Sign Language courses are designed with you in mind.

NECC’s dedicated faculty and staff help students develop the skills they need to advance in the workforce. Our small class sizes ensure personalized attention and support, empowering students to thrive academically. We also offer a variety of student support services, including tutoring, counseling, and academic advising.

With over 60 credit programs, two convenient campuses, robust student support services, and a vibrant student life, NECC is committed to providing an affordable, accessible, and high-quality education for all.

Learn from the Pros

Our instructors aren’t just teachers. They’re experienced professionals who live and breathe ASL Interpreting.

NECC is home to Gallaudet University’s Regional Center East. Gallaudet is the only university in the world designed to be barrier-free for Deaf and Hard of Hearing students.

Experience Beyond the Classroom

At NECC, it’s not just about earning a degree. It’s about building a network, finding your tribe, and acquiring the tools necessary to chase your dreams. Our Haverhill and Lawrence campuses are home to a diverse range of clubs and organizations and activities that help students connect with peers who share similar interests.

Whether you choose to gain leadership experience, stay healthy and fit, join a club, or participate in varsity sports, and student activities, we’ll guarantee you’ll have fond memories of your time at NECC.

We Got Your Back

From the day you start until the day you land your first big gig, our team is here to support, guide, and cheer you on. At NECC, our goal is to empower our students by equipping them with the skills and tools necessary to thrive, wherever they choose to work.

Career Services

Career Services

Career Services is here to assist you at every stage in your career development.
NECC Connect

NECC Connect

Networking and mentoring opportunities for NECC students and alumni.
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What Can I Do With This Major?

Map your NECC major to hundreds of career paths and opportunities.

Got Prior Learning or Work Experience?

With NECC’s Credit for Prior Learning, you can move through the program at a faster pace, and graduate sooner! The best part is these credits are covered free-of-charge for eligible Massachusetts learners.

Support for Every Student

NECC offers a variety of student support services, including tutoring, counseling, and academic advising, to help students thrive academically. Want to transfer to NECC? Our advisors are happy to assist you.

Accommodations at NECC

As an ADA-compliant institution, NECC is committed to serving the needs of students, faculty, staff, and visitors with disabilities, including those who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing. We partner with multiple entities are dedicated to ensuring accessibility and inclusivity for all members of the NECC community.

Do you have a documented disability? Are you Deaf or Hard of Hearing? If so, the Center for Accessibility Resources & Services (CARS) can connect you to the services you need to thrive at NECC.

Career Outlook for ASL Interpreters North of Boston

ASL interpreters play a vital role by helping Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals bridge the communication gap. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for interpreters are projected to rise 4% over the next eight years. At NECC, our ASL program graduates have an exceptional rate of employment while working in various settings, including schools, legal environments, nonprofit organizations, mental health agencies, hospitals, medical offices, and more.

How Much Can I Expect to Make As an ASL Interpreter?

The earning potential for ASL Interpreters in Massachusetts varies based on several factors, including education, location, certifications, experience, and employment setting. According to Salary.com, the median annual wage for an ASL Interpreter in Massachusetts was $53,863 as of April, 2024. The wage range typically falls between $46,722 and $59,249.

With an ASL Certificate from NECC, you’ll be qualified to pursue or advance your career in these roles:

Agency ASL Interpreter

Work through an agency that provides job assignments. Due to growing demand, many agency ASL interpreters work for Video Relay Service agencies.

Freelance ASL Interpreter

Responsible for finding and maintaining a client base and setting their own work hours. Freelance ASL interpreters often work for private and public agencies, hospitals, schools, courts, businesses, or directly with clients.

Contracted ASL Interpreter

Work directly with interpreter service agencies and other agencies in accordance with the terms and conditions of a particular contract or contracts.

On-Site ASL Interpreter

Work exclusively in a specific setting, such as a school, hospital, church, conference center, substance abuse center, etc.

Within these interpreting formats, you can also get certified in various speciality areas, including the performing arts, legal, healthcare, education, mental health, and more.

How to Get Started as an ASL Interpreter Near the Merrimack Valley

Feeling pumped? We thought so! Learn more about how to apply for the ASL Certificate program. Still unsure that it’s the right fit for you? Contact us to chat more about why this could be the best decision you’ll ever make!

Program Costs

For the 2024-2025 academic year, non-health for-credit courses have a cost of $263/credit for in-state students.

Program Info

A program pathway is the most efficient semester-to-semester sequence of courses recommended for students to complete their degree.

Transfer For A Bachelor's Degree
Faculty

Program Coordinator

Kevin Fleese, M.Ed., ASLTA-Master

Email: kfleese@necc.mass.edu
Phone: VP 978-241-7049

Faculty Contact Information

Erik Bailey

American Sign Language Studies Program Assistant

Phone: 978-556-3667
Email: ebailey1@necc.mass.edu

Faculty

Program Coordinator

Kevin Fleese, M.Ed., ASLTA-Master

kfleese@necc.mass.edu
VP 978-241-7049

Faculty Contact Information

Erik Bailey

ASL Studies Program Assistant
978-556-3667
ebailey1@necc.mass.edu

Info Sessions & Tours

Come to an upcoming information session on either the Lawrence or the Haverhill campus and get all of your questions answered.

Stop by one of our Lawrence or Haverhill campus Career Planning and Advising Centers and meet with an enrollment counselor.

FAQs

How much does an associate degree cost?

Community college is now free for eligible Massachusetts residents!

For learners living in other New England states, we offer a reduced out-of-state rate. All others, including international students, pay the full out-of-state rate, before any financial aid awards are made. 

Tuition and Financial Aid at NECC

What types of financial aid are available?

There are three basic types of financial aid you can receive while attending NECC: grants and scholarships, loans, and work-study. Grants and scholarships are a gift and carry no work or repayment requirements. Loans, regardless of the lending source, are funds that must be repaid. Loan repayment terms vary, while the actual loan gives you an opportunity to borrow against future earnings.

Available in on-campus and off-campus formats, all work-study jobs are part-time and filled on an as-needed basis.

Tuition and Financial Aid at NECC

How do I apply for financial aid?

At NECC, we understand that financial aid can make earning your college degree a reality. Many types of aid are available; funds that can be used to help pay for tuition and fees, books, and other personal costs. To qualify, you must meet certain eligibility requirements and complete the application process.

While you can complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at any time after October 1 to receive funds for the following academic year, we recommend you apply as early as possible since some grant funds are distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis. The priority deadline for the state of Massachusetts is May 1. Although applications are accepted throughout the year, some state funds are awarded only to those who meet this deadline.

Please note: You must complete a FAFSA each academic year to be eligible for financial aid.

Tuition and Financial Aid at NECC

How do I transfer credits to NECC from another school?

Tried another college but had trouble making it work? At NECC, we make it easy for students to transfer from another school to ours. Roughly one-third of all NECC students have previously been enrolled at other colleges and then found success here. We welcome you to join them so you can get your education back on track!

Transfer to NECC

How do I transfer my NECC credits to a four-year school?

At NECC, our transfer agreements help ensure you are taking the right courses and electives so you can seamlessly transfer to the four-year college or university of your choice. We offer over 100 transfer agreements with public and private institutions.

Contact the Transfer and Advising Center to learn more.

Does the school assist with job placement?

At NECC, we want you to get a career you love. Our Career Services department is here to assist you at every stage in your career development. From career exploration and internships to landing that first job or navigating career changes, we can help you get on the right path to a career you will love! Whether you are a currently enrolled student or a recent grad, contact us and we can help you.

Our job placement specialists are here to learn about your academic interests and discuss related careers. NECC welcomes you to participate in our various career events and workshops and use our free resources to help you identify the right career for you.

How does NECC support diversity and inclusion?

NECC offers a positive and supportive learning environment of cultural inclusion; one which challenges prejudice, celebrates differences, embraces all identities, and inspires all students, staff, and faculty to succeed. As a Hispanic Serving Institution, we are passionate about closing racial equity gaps and ensuring the success of Hispanic members of our college and community.

What learning options are available if I work full-time?

At NECC, our staff and faculty understand that many of our students work or have other responsibilities outside the classroom. That’s why we offer flexible traditional and nontraditional learning options, including on-campus, online, and hybrid programs. Our online programs offer the same high-quality education and support as our on-campus programs, ensuring all students have an equal opportunity to thrive academically.

Online: Whether you want to complete one online class or your entire degree or certificate online, NECC’s online associate degree and certificate programs make it easy for you to enhance your knowledge and achieve your goals. On-campus: Northern Essex Community College is easily accessible from throughout the Merrimack Valley region to either of our campus locations in Haverhill and Lawrence, MA.

What is the average class size?

At NECC, inspiring our students and graduates to succeed is our top priority. That said, we understand that smaller class sizes help ensure that each student receives the personalized attention they deserve. Presently, our average class size is 16.3 students.

Does NECC have a study abroad program?

Are you interested in other cultures? Would you like to earn a degree while studying abroad? NECC understands that increasing your global awareness can help you gain an edge in the job market when you graduate. For students interested in other cultures or who want to travel and see new places, we offer an International Studies program.

Once accepted into the program, you can take advantage of short course opportunities to visit another country, study abroad for a semester, or increase your global awareness right here on campus by participating in One Geographic Region events or becoming a Global Scholar.

International Studies at NECC

Sources and Citations: ¹Salary information provided on this page is sourced from Salary.com. The data reflects estimates based on employer surveys and job listings. Actual salaries may vary based on location, experience, and other factors.

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