ASL & Deaf Studies:
Academic Advising: Online Bachelors Degree vs In-person Certificate in
ASL
Question:
Dennis Satlanta writes:
I am using your course to study ASL but am also intrested in a more
formal study. I have 2 options I can go to a state school (Valdosta
State) and do the whole thing online. This would be the most
convenient way but i would not have any hands on instruction nor
would I be able to mix with other students . The other choice is to
go to a community college and get a certificate (as opposed to a BS)
in ASL. This would mean an hours commute at least twice a week.
Since I hlaready have an AA degree which means all the English,
history math, etc completed , both programs would take approximately
the same time and would be the same cost. I would be eager to know
which way you would go. I do not know exactly what I want to do with
the sign after I finish . So degree or certificate?
Answer:
Dennis,
I recommend you go for the BA and also locate "real live Deaf
people" in your local area to make friends with and interact with.
The "commute time" would be better invested in attending local Deaf
events.
The BA will provide a stepping stone for whatever comes next in your
life. (Perhaps a masters degree?) Also, www.RID.org (the
organization) now requires candidates to have a BA degree to sit for
their interpreter certification exam.
-- Dr. Bill
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