American Sign Language Studies Associate Degree
Reach Your Career Goals with an Associate Degree in American Sign Language from NECC
Why pursue a degree in ASL?
Would you like to help Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals in your community bridge the communication gap? If so, earning an Associate Degree in American Sign Language (ASL) from NECC could be your ticket to a world where you can make a real difference, connect with awesome people, and open doors to some of the most exciting careers out there.
Signing Up for Success: NECC Degrees Speak Volumes
With three areas of concentration to choose from, NECC’s Associate Degree in American Sign Language will prepare you for an exciting career in education, human/social services, interpreting, and more. Once you’ve completed our program, you can enter the workforce as a direct service provider or transfer credits towards a bachelor’s degree in a related field, saving you thousands of dollars on your education!
Ready to explore a career that’s totally rewarding and incredibly cool? Let’s dive into what makes this journey worth taking!
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 community.
Gear Up for a Great Career in the ASL Field
At NECC, we’re here to help you build a skill set that’s in demand. Whether you see yourself as an interpreter helping people bridge the communication gap, a teacher spreading knowledge, or anything in between, we’ve got you covered. While guiding you every step of the way, our experienced instructors will show you how to:
Learn about the language, culture, and community of Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals.- Gain real-life experience through a practicum (internship) while assisting members of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community.
- Take advantage of networking opportunities with alumni and professionals in the community.
- 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.
Once you’ve completed our ASL associate degree program, you’ll have the option of applying those credits towards a bachelor’s degree in a related field at a four-year institution.
Quote:
At Northern Essex I learned to set priorities, have good communication, and understand my family’s needs. These are the main components that made me a successful working mom and student.”
Lina Garcia Kosko, NECC DEAF STUDIES GRADUATE
Where this journey can take you
Many entry-level ASL jobs offer much potential for growth. In some ways, starting out with an associate degree is an advantage – you can begin working in the field and decide whether you like it before investing additional time and money obtaining a bachelor’s degree.
Imagine yourself serving in one of these roles:
- Bridging the communication gap as an ASL Interpreter
- Teaching the next generation of ASL superstars
- Leading community projects as an Outreach Coordinator
- Enriching the lives of others as a Social Worker or Rehabilitation Counselor
Why choose NECC for your ASL degree?
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 or transfer to a four-year college or university. 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.
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
NECC Connect
What Can I Do With This Major?
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.
Career outlook for ASL professionals north of Boston
ASL instructors, ASL interpreters, and other direct service providers play a vital role by helping Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals bridge the communication gap. Due to increasing demand, job opportunities in ASL-related professions are growing 4% annually. At NECC, our ASL program graduates have an exceptional rate of employment while working in various settings, including schools, residential programs, government agencies, community organizations, and more.
How much can I expect to earn as an ASL program graduate?
The earning potential for ASL interpreters and instructors in Massachusetts varies based on several factors, including education, role, certifications, experience, and employment setting. For example, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the annual median wage for an ASL interpreter in the U.S. is around $57,000.
With an ASL associate degree from NECC, you’ll be qualified to pursue or advance your career in these roles:
ASL Interpreter
Facilitate communication between people who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing and people who can hear. The median annual wage in Massachusetts for this role was $53,863 as of April, 2024. The wage range typically falls between $46,722 and $59,249.¹
ASL Instructor
Instruct students in American Sign Language. Follow curriculum guidelines to prepare lesson plans, teach classes and use tests and assignments to assess student sign language skills. The median annual wage in Boston, MA, for this role was $68,789 as of April, 2024. The wage range typically falls between $60,741 and $84,427.¹
Outreach Coordinator
Plan, direct, or coordinate activities designed to create or maintain a favorable public image or raise issue awareness for their client or organization. The median annual wage in Boston, MA, for this role was $63,604 as of April, 2024. The wage range typically falls between $54,539 and $76,523.¹
Entry-Level Social Worker
Perform assessments for children and adults seeking social services, such as subsidized housing, medical care, or employment assistance. The median annual wage in Massachusetts for this role was $74,688 as of April, 2024. The wage range typically falls between $66,928 and $83,292.¹
Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC)
Helps prevent financial crises by ensuring financial institutions operate according to all applicable laws and regulations. The median annual wage in Boston, Massachusetts for this role was $60,937 as of June, 2024. The wage range typically falls between $53,572 and $69,988.¹
How to get started as an ASL professional in the Merrimack Valley
Feeling pumped? We thought so! Learn how to apply for the ASL associate degree 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!
FAQs
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.
Upcoming Events
American Sign Language Studies: Information Session
10:00 am to 11:00 am
, Zoom
success story
Lina Garcia Kosko
“At Northern Essex I learned to set priorities, have good communication, and understand my family’s needs. These are the main components that made me a successful working mom and student.” Read Lina’s story.
Helpful Links
- Program Pathway
- Academic Catalog
- Deaf Studies LibGuide
- Center for Professional Studies
- What Can I Do With This Major?
- Transfer Information
Got Questions?
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