CSUN is one of only a few institutions in the nation offering a comprehensive Deaf Studies undergraduate program. We have long been a leader in providing education in deaf-related fields.
Why Major in Deaf Studies?
Deaf studies is not a study of them – it is a study of us. We are deaf, we are hearing, we are old, we are young, we are from every corner of the United States and around the world. We come from diverse backgrounds, interests, abilities and disabilities. But we all have one thing in common. We're dedicated to pursuing excellence in education and the equalization of opportunities for all people.
Majoring in Deaf studies will broaden and enrich your knowledge of the most basic elements of our humanity – language, culture, and society. This program will prepare you for careers as an interpreter, educator, counselor and more.
Why Major in Deaf Studies at CSUN?
Leader in the Field
CSUN is proud to be one of only two institutions in the U.S. offering a comprehensive Deaf Studies program. As an established leader in deaf-related fields, we offer skilled faculty and extensive resources.
Hands-On Learning
We learn by doing, alongside reading, listening and observing. Our program offers outstanding opportunities for real-world and internship experiences.
Connected to the Community
We were one of the first mainstream universities in the nation to admit Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals. Because of this, our campus hosts the NCOD: Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services. The center provides support services to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing student population. It also bridges the gap between deaf and hearing communities.
The CSUN Library
The University Library has the most extensive collection of materials related to deafness in the western United States. It includes signed and captioned media, reports, newsletters, periodicals and books from programs and organizations around the world.
Additionally, CSUN has the largest enrollment of students who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing at a mainstream university in the United States.
What You'll Learn
As a Deaf Studies major, you'll gain basic knowledge and understanding of the language, culture and history of Deaf people. As a graduate, you'll also be prepared for advanced degree programs and professional careers with the Deaf community.
Core requirements include courses in sign language, linguistics and a variety of other disciplines that convey basic knowledge and understanding about the language and culture of Deaf people, including their history and social experiences. These courses have been strategically selected to provide a solid foundation for entry into any deaf-related career.
You can also choose to focus in one of six concentrations, including:
- American Sign Language (ASL)/English Interpreting
- ASL and ASL Literature
- Pre-Deaf Education
- Deaf Community Services
- Deaf Cultural Studies
- Special Option (Individualized Program)
Careers & Outcomes
During recent years, a number of significant initiatives and directives have appeared at the federal, state, and local levels to ensure that the approximately 500,000 Deaf Americans have full access to public and private programs and services.
As social, community, legal, and educational services have expanded nationwide, many career possibilities have opened up for those interested in professional work in deaf-related fields.
The Deaf Studies major at CSUN will provide appropriate exposure and preparation to students for professional careers including:
- Sign language interpreters
- Sign language instructors
- Counselors
- Government specialists
- Audiologists
- Speech pathologists
- Program administrators
- Community service personnel
Many interpreter agencies in the Los Angeles area and across California hire our ASL/English interpreting graduates. Organizations include:
- Sorenson
- Purple Communication
- LifeSigns
- The Sign Language Company
- Trisha Bear Interpreters
Deaf CSUNians
As one of the largest organizations under the University's Associated Students programs, Deaf CSUNians promotes awareness among the entire campus community.