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Reach Your Career Goals with an Associate Degree in American Sign Language from NECC

A student in the ASL program at our NECC Campus

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:

  • An emoji version of the NECC Knight giving a thumbs upLearn 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

An illustration of support for every student - students climbing a bar graph

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

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 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!

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

ASL Studies Program Assistant

Phone: 978-556-3667
Email: 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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