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American Sign Language

American Sign Language (ASL) is the language of the Deaf community in the United States and much of Canada. ASL is estimated to be the fourth most commonly used language in the United States.

topics Languages

Skills & InterestHelping People

CareersService Professions

  • Students sitting around a table in the multicultural center
  • Students helping each other in class
  • Student studying outside of library entrance

Why choose American Sign Language?

Knowing another language and culture will –

  • Increase your career opportunities
  • Broaden your horizons
  • Enrich your life in ways you never imagined

Taking one or two years of a second language can –

  • Fulfill university course requirements
  • Greatly increase your chances of getting a rewarding and better-paying job
  • Enhance travel
  • Open up a new world of friendships and understanding

ASL is a fully developed language with its own systems of forming words, sentences and meaning. Learning ASL helps you discover a deeper understanding of Deaf Culture and people.

What will you learn?

Convey information through –

  • Manual signs
  • Facial expressions
  • Body movements
  • Postures
  • Deaf Culture

What will you do?

  • ASL/English Interpretation
  • Business
  • Education
  • Healthcare
  • Hospitality & Tourism
  • Social Services

Where to Start

  • Have you studied American Sign Language before?
    Beginners

    If you are a true beginner and have not studied ASL before (or in a very long time) or have had up to two years of ASL in high school, take ASL111.

    Intermediate

    If you have had three or more years of ASL in high school, or are unsure, contact program chair for ASL diagnostic interview.

  • Frequently Asked Questions

    Q:What classes are offered in CCC’s ASL Program?
    A: We offer first- and second-year ASL. You have to be a Chemeketa student to take ASL classes, visit How to Enroll to get started.

    Q: What modalities are they in?
    A: ASL courses are offered in these modalities:

    • Online: Self-paced with deadlines for assignments and exams
    • In-Person: Scheduled meeting times on campus

    View Instructional Methods for more information of class modalities.

    Q: Who do I contact about ASL classes?
    A: If you have a specific need, email Brian Peet. If you have taken ASL111 at another school and want a placement test, contact the person who is teaching the next class (ASL112) to have a meeting. If you are doing an online course, email the teacher of that course.

    Q: What curriculum does Chemeketa use?
    A: We currently use Signing Naturally textbooks which are available in print and interactive materials in Canvas.

    Q: What are ASL Online courses like?
    A: ASL Online courses can differ by instructor’s preference but all are self-paced.

    Q: Are there Summer courses?
    A: Yes, there are usually a couple ASL classes offered (ASL 1 & 2) that are shorter in different modality. However those are dependent on enrollment.

    Q: Are Chemeketa's ASL courses aligned with WOU’s ASL Program?
    A: Yes we are aligned with WOU for CCC students completing First or Second Year of ASL at Chemeketa. Students then would transfer to WOU for the next year of ASL. We do NOT teach interpreting - that is at WOU.

    Q: Does Chemeketa offer more than ASL Classes?
    A: At this time, no. In summer time there might be events for students to go to so they can keep practicing.