American Sign Language Studies Undergraduate Certificate
UWM’s Undergraduate Certificate in American Sign Language Studies invites you to expand your world through language, culture, and community.
Designed for students eager to make meaningful connections, this program builds your ASL fluency, cultural understanding and empowers connections and advocacy with Deaf communities. Whether your path leads to healthcare, education, social services, or beyond, this certificate prepares you to champion inclusion, and create meaningful impact.
Program Type
Undergraduate Certificate
Program Format
On Campus
Why Choose the ASL Studies Certificate?
- Learn from experts and native ASL users – Gain high-quality, immersive instruction from experienced faculty who bring lived and professional expertise in Deaf culture.
- Experience community-connected learning – Engage in fieldwork and internships through UWM’s partnerships with local Deaf and Hard of Hearing organizations.
- Build cultural competence that enhances any career – Strengthen your ability to work inclusively across professions—from education and healthcare to business and social services.
The Undergraduate Certificate in American Sign Language Studies offers more than language instruction—it’s an invitation to explore a vibrant culture and deepen your ability to connect. Guided by native ASL users, students build linguistic fluency and cultural understanding to communicate authentically with Deaf, Hard of Hearing, Deaf-Blind, and Deaf-disabled individuals.
What You’ll Learn
This 12-credit certificate builds a strong foundation in American Sign Language, helping students develop vocabulary, apply grammatical structures, and engage in meaningful conversations. You’ll learn to understand ASL narratives, use culturally appropriate communication strategies, and gain insight into the connections and distinctions between Deaf and hearing cultures—all skills you can apply directly within your chosen field.
Who This Certificate is For
This program is ideal for students and professionals who want to enhance their ability to serve and connect with Deaf communities in their chosen fields. It’s especially well-suited for those pursuing careers in:
- Healthcare – nurses, therapists, and counselors
- Education – general and special educators, interpreters, and job coaches
- Social and Human Services – social workers, community advocates, and nonprofit professionals
- Business and Customer Service – professionals working directly with diverse clients and communities
- Arts, Technology, and Beyond – artists, IT specialists, criminal justice professionals, and anyone passionate about inclusive communication
Related Programs
Program Requirements
The American Sign Language (ASL) Studies Undergraduate Certificate consists of 12 credits,
made up of 3 core courses and an elective. The program is designed to provide a foundational
understanding of ASL and Deaf culture, while maintaining flexibility for students to tailor
their studies.
The certificate is open to all undergraduate students, as well as community members (UWM Special Students).
- Assistant Clinical Professor, Teaching and Learning
- Program Director, American Sign Language Studies
- brysch@uwm.edu
- 414-372-0595
- Enderis Hall 279
- Teaching Faculty II, Teaching and Learning
- giuntolc@uwm.edu
- Enderis Hall 271
- Teaching Faculty I, Teaching and Learning
- marrakch@uwm.edu
- 414-285-1340
- Enderis Hall 267
- Teaching Faculty I, Teaching and Learning
- rvthorne@uwm.edu
- 414-301-2969
- Enderis Hall 257
Assistant Clinical Professor and Program Director
brysch@uwm.edu
To discuss your academic plan and coursework, contact an academic advisor:
Student Advising & Support Services
ccep-advising@uwm.edu
(414) 229-4721