2009-2010

Interpreter Technician
Associate in Applied Science Degree — Downtown Milwaukee Campus

Program Code: 10-533-2

This curriculum goes into effect with the summer 2009 semester.

This page was last updated September 2008. 

Overview — Interpreter Technician is an associate degree program designed to prepare you for entry-level employment as a sign language interpreter for deaf and hard-of-hearing persons. Coursework is directed at preparing you to interpret the spoken English of hearing people and present it to deaf and hard-of-hearing people in American Sign Language. You will also be instructed in interpreting sign language into spoken English. This program assists you in developing knowledge of the culture of deaf people in America.

Career Outlook — Your work as a sign language interpreter will take you to a variety of community-based settings. Increasing numbers of community agencies, organizations and service providers are hiring interpreters in conformance with federal regulations. At present, most full-time jobs are in the educational setting, but there is a growing trend in human services agencies. Freelance opportunities are abundant. Generally, pay scales are based on skill level. State and national tests may be taken to demonstrate skill.

Program Learning Outcomes — When hiring sign language interpreters, employers expect you to be able to:

• Demonstrate proficiency in interpreting spoken English into American Sign Language, and American Sign Language into spoken English
• Reflect an understanding of the American deaf culture
• Provide orientations on the appropriate use of American Sign Language interpreters to deaf, hard-of-hearing, and hearing consumers
• Maintain confidentiality and be guided by the Code of Ethics of the Registry of Interpreters of the Deaf, Inc.
• Exhibit strong interpersonal communications skills
• Demonstrate superior English language skills

Preparation for Admission — The following are required for admission to the program:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Demonstration of proficiency in basic skills through a course placement assessment
• Completion of two years of ASL in high school, courses INTP-126 and INTP-127, American Sign Language 1 and 2, or the equivalent

Attributes that would contribute to success in this program include good vision, eye-hand coordination, motor coordination, firm grasp of the English language, fluent reading skills, and a broad vocabulary. One also needs the ability to sit and/or stand for extended periods of time.

Future Opportunities — Upon successful completion of this program, you may take the State of Wisconsin Interpreter/Transliterator Assessment and/or the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf, Inc., national certification exam.

This program will transfer to one or more four-year institutions.

Possible Careers:

Educational Interpreter
Communication Assistant
Freelance Interpreter
Staff Interpreter
Interpreter Referral Coordinator

Related Programs:

Human Service Associate
Liberal Arts and Sciences

For more information, call 414-297-MATC.

Curriculum effective 2009-2010.

Program curriculum requirements are subject to change.

‡	Prerequisite required.

NOTE: Students who have not been accepted, or have not decided on a program, may begin with GENERAL STUDIES courses, if course prerequisites have been met.

For course descriptions, times, locations or to register online, visit INFOnline.