The Path to Becoming a Sign Language Interpreter in Canada
- tyler35718
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
How to become an American Sign Language - English Interpreter in Canada.
Unless you're already fluent in ASL, the path to becoming an ASL-English Interpreter in Canada has three main steps. First, you'll need to start your journey by taking some ASL classes. After an introductory course or two, you'll need to dedicate some time and energy to developing proficiency in ASL and learning about the Deaf community and culture. Usually, this is done by taking a more intensive program of study in ASL and Deaf Studies. Once you've developed the required fluency and knowledge about the Deaf community, you'll start an Interpreter Education Program where you'll continue to develop fluency in ASL while also learning about the process of interpreting and starting to hone your practice.
Where can I take introductory ASL classes?
Many post-secondary institutions and community organizations provide introductory ASL classes. In addition to options in the community, some school districts offer courses or will allow students to take classes at a post-secondary institution and count those credits towards their graduation under a dual credit program. Some examples of institutions and organizations that provide ASL classes in British Columbia are:
Many of these institutions and organizations offer in-person and online classes.
Should I take ASL classes online or in-person?
Either is a great option - especially for an introductory course. The widespread use of online meeting platforms has made learning ASL more accessible than ever. However, it's important to remember that ASL is a visual language that uses 3D space. While learning online can be accessible and convenient, the 2D nature of online learning can be limiting. If possible, having some in-person exposure while learning ASL is helpful.
Where can I take an ASL and Deaf Studies program?
Like introductory ASL classes, there are a number of institutions that offer an ASL and Deaf Studies program or more advanced ASL classes. Some examples are:
Please note: Not all of the above course offerings meet the requirements for entry into all interpreter education programs, so please confirm the pre-requisites for your desired program.
What Interpreter Education Programs (IEP) are available in Canada?
After developing the required fluency and gaining knowledge about the Deaf community and culture, you can apply to an interpreter education program. In Canada, most programs are either a two-year diploma or a four-year degree. There are pros and cons to both of these program types, so it's worth investigating what each program has to offer and which program best aligns with your career goals. Currently, the following IEPs are available in Canada:
British Columbia
Manitoba
Nova Scotia
Ontario
What happens after graduation from an IEP?
Upon completion of one of the above programs, you'll be eligible for membership in the provincial and national associations for Sign Language Interpreters. In British Columbia, you'll want to join the Westcoast Association of Visual Language Interpreters (WAVLI), and you will then be eligible to call yourself a Registered ASL-English Interpreter. With your membership card in hand, you'll be ready to start reaching out to organizations and employers to offer your services. As WAVLI has been granted occupational title protection, only members of WAVLI can use their three protected titles of Registered ASL-English Interpreter, Registered Sign Language Interpreter, and Registered Visual Language Interpreter when advertising their services.
After all that hard work, congratulations on becoming a Registered ASL-English interpreter! We look forward to chatting with you about working for Still Interpreting Inc and helping you launch your career!
