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Deaf Interpreter

Specialize in facilitating clear, effective communication for Deaf people and diverse Deaf communities.

A student shares a sign in American Sign Language (ASL) with another student while seated at a table at an NSCC campus.
Start Date(s):
Typical Length:
36 Weeks
Credential:
College Certificate
International Students:
Not eligible for Post-Grad Work Permit (PGWP)

Apply Now

Free tuition

This program is funded in partnership with Employment and Social Development Canada. There is no tuition cost for this offering. Students are responsible for some program costs and fees.

International students: This program is only open to domestic students at this time. Check back for future updates.

Overview

This program is the first of its kind in Canada. As a student and a graduate, you are part of an important, nationwide change toward improving access and inclusion for the Deaf community while setting a professional standard for the industry. 

Deaf interpreters (DIs) provide clear access to information and messages to Deaf clients and consumers. As Deaf individuals themselves, DIs add a level of depth and understanding to interpretation services from lived experience. 

Deaf interpretation is in demand in Nova Scotia and across Canada. In one year, you learn from Deaf experts with lived and professional experience, training to become a work-ready DI who:

  • Understands the communications needs of clients, creating strategies and approaches to accurately interpret messages and information.
  • Collaborates and negotiates to provide professional interpretation.
  • Interprets and translates complex American Sign Language (ASL) and English messages.
  • Uses technology to effectively support interpretation.
  • Brings real workplace experience from your work term to professional settings.

Work experience

  • Field experience is a mandatory credit course, providing you with the opportunity to apply your knowledge and skills outside of the classroom.
    • Opportunities take place near the end of the program, are typically unpaid and last approximately 4 weeks.
    • Transportation, accommodation  and other costs related to work experience are your responsibility.
  • For more information, visit work experience opportunities.

Is this program right for you?

  • You must be Deaf to apply.
  • You're passionate about access and advocacy.
  • You want to work in a field that is focused on language, accessibility and communication.
  • You have strong organizational skills.
  • You're a problem solver and enjoy working with technology, especially finding ways to communicate using different technologies.
  • You work well independently and on a team.
  • You're prepared to consistently work to improve communication while maintaining professionalism, especially in high-stakes or sensitive scenarios.
  • You're good at building relationships and working with the community.
  • You care about maintaining ethical standards and values in your practice.

Other info

Availability

Applications have closed. No current offering. 

Admission requirements

All required documentation must be received by Admissions by April 30 to be considered for the 2025 program start: 

  • High School Graduation Diploma or equivalent.
  • A certified audiogram result, showing a hearing level of 55 dB or above, in both ears. The date on the audiogram must be less than 5 years prior to the NSCC application submission date.
  • American Sign Language Proficiency Interview (ASLPI) results from Sign Language Institute Canada or Gallaudet University, showing an ASLPI Proficiency of Level 4, or above.
  • The final stage of the application process includes an interview (in-person or online). This interview assesses your knowledge and interest in the Deaf Interpreting field.
    • Important: If you don't respond to your interview invitation or if you miss a scheduled interview, your application is cancelled.

Program requirements

  • Portfolio development – As part of your studies at NSCC, you develop a portfolio of your work; the portfolio captures your achievements and profiles your skills to employers.

Tuition

Tuition amounts are for the 2025-26 academic year. Program costs and fees (textbooks, supplies, etc.) are additional.

Tuition (Domestic):
$0

Tuition, fees and program costs

Free tuition.

In this funded program, some student costs and fees are covered including books, health and dental plan, student association and college services fees. 

View detailed program fees page(s). Please note that amounts on these pages are meant for planning purposes only. They don't represent final amounts owing.

Career options

Deaf Interpreters are qualified to work independently as freelance interpreters or may work in various sectors such as: 

  • Government
  • Legal
  • School systems (kindergarten/primary to 12)
  • Post-secondary institutions (college or university)
  • Health systems
  • Technology and virtual services, such as video relay
  • Referral agencies
  • Special or public events such as conferences, entertainment etc.

Apply Now

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