| Degree Required | Associate's or bachelor's degree |
| Education Field of Study | American Sign Language, Interpretation |
| Key Responsibilities | Help individuals who cannot hear communicate with others using hand signals |
| Licensure Requirements | Licensure not necessary, but some employers may have their own certification requirements |
| Job Growth (2020-2030)* | 24% growth (for all interpreters and translators) |
| Median Salary (2022)** | $41,389 |
Sources: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics; **PayScale.com
What Does an American Sign Language Interpreter Do?
An ASL interpreter bridges the communication gap between individuals who can hear and those who cannot. Using hand signals, body language and other techniques, a sign language interpreter can show those who can't hear what somebody is saying. A sign language interpreter may also be able to understand the language of those who are deaf; he or she can then share that information with others.
How Do I Get My Education?
You might consider earning an associate's or bachelor's degree in American Sign Language or sign language interpreting. In these programs, you'll study sign language techniques, the culture of the deaf community and oral interpretation. You may need to take some general education courses, like English composition or algebra. Most associate's and bachelor's programs require completion of an internship or an experiential learning course.
If you've already earned a bachelor's degree in this field, you might pursue a master's degree in education interpretation or interpretation. Master's programs are often more specialized than undergraduate programs; you could study sign language and interpretation techniques that are used in a medical, business or special education setting. You'll usually need to complete an internship in order to earn a master's degree.
The Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf offers the National Interpreter Certification (NIC) credential to individuals who've completed at least an associate's program. You'll need to take three exams that test your interpretation knowledge, performance level and decision-making skills in order to receive the NIC credential. Certification requirements vary by employer; earning certification may lead to an increase in employment opportunities.
Is There a Demand for Interpreters?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicted that the number of jobs for interpreters and translators would increase by 24% from 2020-2030 (www.bls.gov). The main factor behind the growth in demand for ASL interpreters was the increased use of video relay systems, which allowed communication between individuals over the Internet.
How Much Could I Be Paid?
According to the BLS, the median annual salary for all interpreters and translators was $52,330 in 2020. PayScale.com notes that sign language interpreters earned a median salary of $41,389 as of January 2022.
Related careers include career and technical education teachers, high school teachers and special education teachers. Career and technical education teachers lead vocational subject classes; topics include auto repair. High school teachers prepare lesson plans in basic subjects like English and math, and help prepare their students for post-secondary endeavors. Special education teachers work with students with disabilities to teach them basic subjects and skills. All fields require a bachelor's degree.
