Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Sign Language Interpreting

The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree In Sign Language Interpreting is designed to prepare students for employment as interpreters in educational settings and entry-level freelance assignments. Students are taught with a hands-on approach as they learn about Deaf culture, how to collaborate in a professional setting and participate in field observations. The educational experience culminates with an interpreting internship. An Associate Degree in Sign Language Studies or its equivalent is required. ISU offers an Associate Degree in Sign Language Studies on the Pocatello campus. The Bachelor of Science Degree is only offered on the Meridian campus.  

TO APPLY: Sign Language Interpreting Application Information 

Sign Language Interpreting Suggested Course Sequence

Please visit the ISU catalog for required courses for the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Sign Language Interpreting. These courses are in addition to an Associate Degree (or equivalent in Sign Language Studies or a related area).

Interpreting students are required to take eight (8) credits of Internship. This experience will take place the last eight (8) weeks of the students' senior year. Therefore, all other course work must be completed prior to the internship. The student will collaborate with the Internship Coordinator to establish a site the semester prior to internship assignment.

Placement sites have spanned the U.S. and include schools for the Deaf, community interpreting agencies, public school K-12 settings, community colleges, and universities. Students complete a background check through the Idaho State Deptartment of Education.

Sign Language Interpreting (SLI) Program Learning Outcomes

• Upon completion of our program, graduates meet all required education requirements for certification exams and credentials.  
• Students will be prepared for employment as interpreters in entry-level positions, committing to life-long learning and development.
• Graduates have the ability to make ethically and culturally correct choices in signing environments. They can apply professional standards, practices, and ethics to their interpreting practice.
• Students who complete our program will recognize the role interpreters have in the Deaf community, integrating their knowledge of the culture, languages, and diversity of Deaf, Hard-of-Hearing, DeafBlind, and intersectional communities into their work.

Idaho State University's program has national accreditation through Commission on Collegiate Interpreter Education (CCIE).