Course Descriptions


American Sign Language (ASL) Courses

ASL 101 American Sign Language I (3-0) 3 credits

This course is the first in a series of courses designed to develop the skills and knowledge needed to communicate in American Sign Language. ASL 101 is an introductory level course that establishes a novice range of communication skills. This course emphasizes the cultural practices distinct to those that approach the world from a visual perspective. Topics include: historical events that have impacted the language and culture of the D/deaf community; the distinct cultural practices; and, comparison of language features. This course carries SUNY General Education World Language credit.  View Course Syllabus Adobe Acrobat, PDF


ASL 102 American Sign Language II (3-0) 3 credits

This course is the second in a series of courses designed to develop the skills and knowledge needed to communicate in American Sign Language. ASL 102 is an introductory level course that develops a novice range of communication skills with the ability to expand discourse based on prior knowledge. This course emphasizes the cultural behaviors and practices distinct to those that approach the world from a visual perspective. Topics include: contemporary events and issues that impact the D/deaf community; linguistic minority groups; and language features. Prerequisite: ASL 101 or requisite experience. This course carries SUNY General Education World Language credit.  View Course Syllabus Adobe Acrobat, PDF


ASL 201 American Sign Language III (3-0) 3 credits

This course is the third in a series of courses designed to advance the skills and knowledge needed to communicate in American Sign Language. ASL 201 develops a novice-high range of communication skills with the ability to expand discourse on a variety of topics. This course emphasizes the cultural practices distinct to those that approach the world from a visual perspective. Topics include: analysis of local, national, and global issues; examination of cultural norms, attitudes, and values of Deaf people; linguistic minority groups and access to society. Prerequisite: ASL 102 or requisite experience. This course carries SUNY General Education World Language credit.  View Course Syllabus Adobe Acrobat, PDF


ASL 202 American Sign Language IV (3-0) 3 credits

This course is the fourth in a series of courses designed to advance the skills and knowledge needed to communicate in American Sign Language. ASL 202 develops a novice-high to intermediate range of communication skills with the ability to convey information, concepts, and ideas in ASL on a variety of topics. This course emphasizes articulating the cultural practices and products distinct to those that approach the world from a visual perspective. Topics include: analysis of a linguistic, political, or social issue; examination of products of Deaf culture; and, exploration of career pathways. Prerequisites: ASL 201 or requisite experience. This course carries SUNY General Education World Language credit.  View Course Syllabus Adobe Acrobat, PDF


ASL 210 Capstone American Deaf Culture and Community (3-0) 3 credits

This course is the culmination of the A.A. Degree in American Sign Language. The course is designed to encompasses all the skills and knowledge necessary to think critically and to present on topics related to Sign Language and its users. Inquiry into American Deaf culture and the community of the D/deaf will expand one's critical understanding of how linguistic minority cultures function and perhaps thrive within broader society. Examination of Deaf culture and the D/deaf community will culminate in a comprehensive project that captures the learner's experiences and knowledge of the language, the culture, and the community of the Deaf. Prerequisite: ASL 201 or requisite experience. Co-requisite: ASL 202.  View Course Syllabus Adobe Acrobat, PDF