Welcome to Sign Language Interpreting
Program Information
Are you looking for a career where you can learn a second language while helping others to communicate? If so, you may want to enroll in Iowa Western's Sign Language Interpreting program. Professional interpreters are currently in demand by businesses, educational institutions, public agencies and most recently, video relay interpreting services. Through this program, you will be orientated to deaf culture, deaf history and receive extensive training with American Sign Language. You will also examine and apply the processes for effective interpreting and transliterating skills in a variety of simulated settings. You will also receive on the job experience through an individually arranged practicum. This Sign Language Interpreting program provides excellent preparation for the written and performance sections of the National Interpreter Certification exam as well as the Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment and state Quality Assurance Screening Tests.
Admission Requirements
Admission to the college is granted to all individuals who are high school graduates or the equivalent; however; some programs may require additional information for acceptance. We encourage you to review our Getting Started Checklist for specific requriements for admission.
Program goals
Sign Language Interpreting students will use communication effectively.
Sign Language Interpreting students will maintain high ethics and moral standards.
Sign Language Interpreting students are contributors who meet the needs of people from diverse backgrounds.
Sign Language Interpreting students are positive motivators who utilize leadership skills.
Sign Language Interpreting students are critical thinkers and problem solvers.
Sign Language Interpreting students maintain professionalism in the workplace.
Sign Language Club
Sign Language Club is involved with campus wide and community wide service projects bringing an awareness of the Deaf community to the IWCC community and the broader local community. The Sign Language Club has been involved with the Can's for Mohm's Place drive, Book drives, as well as sponsorship of Deaf children from the Iowa School for the Deaf. Sign Language Students work collaboratively with the Theater department providing Theatrical Interpretations for performances such as Cabernet, Mid Summer NIght's Dream, My Fair Lady, to name a few.
Graduates/Success Stories
Upon completion of this intensive two year Associates of Applied Science Degree program, graduates can be seen working in the Educational settings, as well as private practice. Employers of ITP graduates:
Omaha Public Schools
Ralston Public Schools
District 66 Schools
Grand Island Public Schools
Des Moines Public Schools
Iowa School for the Deaf
Lincoln Public Schools
Post-Secondary Institutions such as:Iowa Western Community College, Metro Community College, University of Nebraska at Omaha, University of Nebraska at Kearney, College of St. Mary's etc.
Student Advice
When asked what advice students would share with prospective students about succeeding in this program they have been heard to say, "be dedicated, don't procrastinate, it's intensive, risk, stay engaged in the process, and be inquisitive". Students also encourage getting involved and attending Deaf events as posted within the department.
Other Resources
National Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf
Iowa State Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf
Nebraska Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
Deaf Services Commission of Iowa
Educational Interpreters Performance Test
Community Events
Performing Arts Presentations TBA
Theatrical Interpreted Performances TBA
Pinning Ceremony TBA
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of degree will I earn at Iowa Western, if I enroll in this program?
Graduates of this two year program will earn an Associates in Applied Science degree. (AAS)
If I major in Sign Language Interpreting, can I transfer to a four year college or university?
The credits you will earn at Iowa Western can be transferred to a four year college or university. Many graduates are successful in pursuing a bachelor's degree in sign language interpreting. However, after earning an associate's degree you may be interested in beginning your work as an interpreter immediately!
What is the job outlook for Sign Language Interpreting graduates and what type of jobs will I be qualified?
Iowa Western graduates of this program have exceeded test standards and usually go on to find jobs immediately after graduation. Many interpreters work in private practice; they are self employed. Other interpreters are salaried staff of an agency, educational institution or corporation. Most IWCC graduates of this program begin their interpreting work in the educational setting.
The Interpreter must be a versatile, flexible and skilled professional.
What typs of skill assessments are necessary for employment?
Assessment and credentials may vary from state to state. At the national level, the National Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf administers a comprehensive written and performance exam. State assessments may vary, as may the requirements for licensure for interpreters. Assessments may include the National RID exam, the Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment, and Quality Assurance Screening Tests.
Student Online Services Main Menu
Contact Information
Carolyn Cool, Program Chair
712-325-3203
1-800-432-5852 ext. 3203
E-mail: ccool@iwcc.edu