Earn your Associate of Arts in Pre-Translation Studies at Gallaudet
Start your Journey to Becoming an Interpreter
Turn Your ASL Skills into a Career
Start your journey toward becoming a professional interpreter.
Gallaudet’s Associate of Arts in Pre-Translation Studies is designed to help you strengthen your ASL skills, build a strong foundation in language and culture, and prepare for entry into the Bachelor’s in Interpretation program.
Explore the Program
Discover the Associate of Arts in Pre-Translation Studies
Learn what you’ll study and why it matters
Why Start at Gallaudet?
Scholars debate whether Gallaudet was the official birthplace of ASL. What’s not up for debate is that Gallaudet University is the world leader in sign language translation and interpretation.
Gallaudet University offers:
A.A. in Pre-Translation Studies candidates will:
Build ASL skills before entering a bachelor’s program
Learn at the world leader in sign language interpreter education
Flexible online + on-campus format
Clear pathway to Gallaudet’s BA in Interpretation
A Growing Career Field
Demand for interpreters is growing across the U.S., but there is a shortage of professionals with strong ASL and cultural skills – especially in specialized fields like education, healthcare, government, and Video Relay Services.
What You’ll Learn
Not Ready for a B.A. in Interpretation degree yet?
This program is designed for students who need to reach ASLPI 3 before entering the BA in Interpretation.
Core Areas
A.A. in Translation Studies Gives You The Best of Both Worlds
Our unique hybrid modality is designed to meet you where you are and take you where you want to go:
- Year 1: Flexibility & Foundation
Build your core linguistic skills with the convenience of 100% online coursework, allowing you to balance your studies from anywhere.
- Year 2: Mastery through Immersion
Relocate to our Washington, D.C. campus for a year of total linguistic immersion. As the world’s only bilingual ASL and English university, Gallaudet provides a unique environment where students refine their skills through daily interaction within a signing community.
Take the First Step Toward Interpreting
Our recruiters are eager to answer any questions you have about this program or its application requirements. Connect with us at the inquiry form below – or apply now!
Your Path to Becoming a Professional Interpreter
ASLPI Level 2
Starting Point
Basic to intermediate ASL skills.
AA Program
Build Your Foundation
This is the bridge program that prepares you for interpreting.
ASLPI Level 3
Ready for the Next Step
After completing the AA, you should reach ASLPI Level 3.
BA in Interpretation
Become a Professional
This is where you train to become an ASL interpreter or CDI.
Is This Program Right for You?
This program is open to deaf, hard of hearing, and hearing students!
Application Requirements
You are eligible to apply if you meet the following criteria:
Important Dates
Special Undergraduate Pathway Rate
The Associate of Arts in Pre-Translation Studies is offered at a special undergraduate pathway rate of $425 per credit hour.
$425 per credit hour (41% discount)
Lower than many comparable programs
Year 1 online reduces living costs
Start without relocating
Gallaudet is not your average university.
Merit-Based Scholarship Awards
All newly admitted undergraduate are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships by the Admissions Office. So let your ACT, SAT, and GPA scores shine as you discover thousands in scholarship awards.
Provost’s
Excellence
$3,700 per academic year
Dean’s
Prestige
$3,000 per academic year
Academic
Recognition
$2,300 per academic year
Learn Where Deaf Culture Lives
Gallaudet sits right at the pulse of D.C.’s vibrant H Street Corridor.
Step outside and immerse yourself in one of the world’s most sign-language-friendly cities, where unparalleled access and opportunity are always within reach.
Live the Language
Master “real-world” signing at the H Street Signing Starbucks and the vibrant Union Market District, just steps from campus.
Study the Pros
Watch master-level translation in action with ASL-interpreted performances at D.C.’s world-class theaters.
Network with Leaders
Get a front-row seat to advocacy at the National Association of the Deaf (NAD) or the DC Office of Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing.
Network with Leaders
Get a front-row seat to advocacy at the National Association of the Deaf (NAD) or the DC Office of Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing.
Access(ible) History
Expand your specialized vocabulary through ASL-interpreted tours and captioned exhibits at the iconic Smithsonian Museums.
Access(ible) History
Expand your specialized vocabulary through ASL-interpreted tours and captioned exhibits at the iconic Smithsonian Museums.
See Accessibility in Action
Experience inclusive fan culture with live-captioned pro sports games alongside the local Deaf community.
Take the Stage
Build your expressive confidence and storytelling skills at the legendary ASL Open Mic nights at Busboys & Poets.
Why Gallaudet?
Gallaudet University, the world’s only four-year liberal arts university serving deaf and hard-of-hearing students, serves as the educational, social, and political engine of Deaf America. The duty of the university to foster disagreement, debate, and civic engagement is embedded in its role as a higher education institution.
