ASL Linguistics & Deaf Cultures Program

The screening for the fall 2024 interpreting option cohort has closed. Please check. back here in Spring 2025 for more information on how to apply

➡ Note, if you are interested in applying to our BA Option, you must first be accepted to the university as an ASLD major, then follow the guidelines on the application page. Submissions are reviewed in April and May.  Selective invitations to the interview occur June with notification of acceptance in June and/or July.

Welcome to American Sign Language Linguistics and Deaf Cultures (ASLD).  We offer a B.A. in ASL Linguistics and Deaf Cultures and for those interested in becoming an ASL-English interpreter, we offer an Option in Interpreting under our BA.  The Option requires acceptance to the ASLD BA through submission of a portfolio, an invitation for an in-person interview, and a written offer of admission to our Fall-only Option cohorts.  We also off a MINOR in ASL and Deaf Cultures.  A student from any major may take our ASLD BA or minor. Graduates of our BA program may choose to enter any profession aided by competencies in American Sign Language with a knowledge of American and global Deaf cultures (e.g. law, law enforcement, nursing, teaching, social work, and other service professions).  Students may also choose to pursue graduate studies in such fields as linguistics, interpreting, social work, teaching, law, business and other fields.  We expect our students graduating with the B.A. Option to eventually go on to become nationally certified interpreters who have a comprehensive background in linguistics, giving them an edge in their future professional practice.

We recognize and honor the diversity that exists within the American and global Deaf communities. We strive to offer our students opportunities to learn about local, national, and international variations within signed languages, and deaf communities. One goal of CSULB ASLD is to empower our future alumni to employ their ASL skills and understandings about human and linguistic diversity in whatever field they choose to pursue professionally.  Our hope is that our alumni will meet all people with professional discretion, interpersonal intelligence, and respect.

For information about applying to Cal State Long Beach please see Admissions.

If you would like more information about BA, BA Option, and Minor, please browse the links on the left side of this page and email ASL@CSULB.EDU