The Bachelor of Arts in Interpretation: ASL/English provides students with quality instruction in ASL, Deaf studies, and ASL/English interpretation. In addition to classroom instruction, students have opportunities for experiential, self-directed, and service learning through community involvement. Students are also encouraged to get involved at the university and within the interpreting and Deaf communities.
Our courses respond to present and future trends including changing employment trends, and the growth and application of advanced technology. Students become aware of career opportunities in the interpreting profession at the state, regional, and national level.
We prioritize the acquisition of requisite knowledge, values, and competencies by balancing second language learning and interpretation theory with practical applications. This helps ensure that candidate proficiencies are aligned with national, professional, and state standards.
The minor in educational interpreting is required for the Interpretation B.A. degree-seeking students and incorporates study specific to interpreting in elementary, secondary, and post-secondary educational settings.
Office of Special Education Programs Grant Opportunity
Eligible students can apply for the Office of Special Education Programs Grant. The grant funding is competitive and includes payment of tuition, fees, benchmark exams, and a stipend during each semester funded.
Admission Requirements
Students seeking admission to the Interpreting (B.A.) degree program should contact the program coordinator and meet the following requirements:
- Completion of ASL III with a “B” or better
- Visit with an advisor in the program to make your major declaration
Before enrolling in interpreting courses for the B.A. degree, students must have successfully completed the required coursework of the A.S. degree and obtained an Intermediate or above on the Sign Language Proficiency Interview or have obtained permission from the program coordinator.
New students and transfer students may apply online at UA Little Rock Admissions. Students enrolling at UA Little Rock with some prior knowledge of, or coursework in ASL may be eligible to take the ASL Placement Test.
Graduation Requirements
- GPA of 2.0 in all work for the major and the minor
- “C” or better in each of the language and interpretation courses
- Sign Language Proficiency Interview described under Benchmarks
- Quality Assurance Screening Test (QAST) described under Benchmarks
- Complete a 2000-level second language course or demonstrate the equivalent proficiency
- 45 upper-level credit hours
- Meet all other bachelor degree requirements
Completion of bachelor’s degree (120 hours)
- Apply for graduation
- Take QAST before internship
- Last semester – Internship (B.A. degree awarded)
For a printable copy, please download the Steps to Graduation document.
