Explore Diverse Programs Offered At Gallaudet University

Gallaudet University, a private university in Washington, D.C., offers a wide range of programs for deaf and hard-of-hearing students. With over 50 majors, 30 minors, and a Self-Directed Major, the university ensures that students can find a program that matches their interests. The university is officially bilingual, using American Sign Language (ASL) and written English for instruction. While there are no specific ASL proficiency requirements for undergraduate admission, many graduate programs require some level of ASL knowledge.

Undergraduate programs

Gallaudet University offers a wide range of undergraduate programs for students interested in various fields. With a focus on providing an inclusive and accessible education, the university has over 50 majors and 30 minors for students to choose from. Here is an in-depth look at the undergraduate programs offered at Gallaudet University:

American Sign Language (ASL)

Gallaudet University offers a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in American Sign Language, providing students with a strong foundation in ASL and Deaf culture. The program prepares students for careers in fields such as education, interpreting, and social work.

Art and Media Design

The B.A. in Art and Media Design allows students to explore their creativity and develop their artistic skills. Students can choose from a range of specializations, including digital media, graphic design, photography, and art history.

Communication Studies

The B.A. in Communication Studies equips students with effective communication skills and a broad understanding of communication theories and practices. The program offers specializations such as media, intercultural communication, and public relations.

Deaf Studies

The B.A. in Deaf Studies provides a comprehensive understanding of Deaf culture, history, and community. Students can explore areas such as Deaf education, ASL linguistics, and Deaf gain and human rights.

Education

Gallaudet University offers a B.A. in Education with specializations in Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education. The program prepares students for teaching careers, focusing on creating inclusive and accessible learning environments.

English

The B.A. in English for Online Degree Completion is designed for students seeking a flexible path to complete their degree. The program covers various aspects of English literature, writing, and language arts.

Government and Law

The B.A. in Government with a Specialization in Law offers an interdisciplinary approach, combining political science and legal studies. It prepares students for careers in law, politics, and public service.

Interdisciplinary Spanish

The B.A. in Interdisciplinary Spanish provides a unique opportunity to study Spanish language and culture alongside Deaf studies and ASL. It prepares students for careers in education, interpreting, and international development.

International Studies

The B.A. in International Studies offers a global perspective, focusing on cultural diversity, international relations, and social issues. It prepares students for careers in fields such as international development, diplomacy, and cross-cultural communication.

Psychology

The B.A. in Psychology for Online Degree Completion is a flexible program that explores the scientific study of human behaviour and mental processes. It provides a strong foundation for graduate studies and careers in psychology and related fields.

Social Work (BSW)

The B.A. in Social Work prepares students for careers in social services, focusing on Deaf and hard-of-hearing communities. The program emphasizes cultural competency, advocacy, and social justice.

Sociology with a concentration in Criminology

The B.A. in Sociology with a concentration in Criminology offers an understanding of social behaviour, criminal justice, and the impact of social issues on Deaf communities. It prepares students for careers in criminal justice, social work, and public policy.

Theatre Arts: Production/Performance

The B.A. in Theatre Arts: Production/Performance allows students to develop their creative and technical skills in theatre. The program covers areas such as acting, directing, design, and technical production, offering a well-rounded theatre education.

Education with a Specialization in Secondary Education

The B.A. or B.S. in Education with a Specialization in Secondary Education offers concentrations in Science, English, Mathematics, or Social Studies. The program prepares students for teaching at the secondary level, focusing on inclusive and effective instructional strategies.

Gallaudet University's undergraduate programs offer a diverse range of options for students, providing a strong foundation for their chosen careers and a unique perspective on Deaf culture and inclusive education.

Graduate programs

Gallaudet University offers a wide range of graduate programs for students interested in pursuing advanced degrees. With a focus on providing an inclusive and accessible education, the university offers over 25 master's programs and 7 doctorate programs. Here is an overview of some of the graduate programs offered:

Master's Programs

• Master of Arts in Counseling: Clinical Mental Health Counseling
• Master of Arts in Counseling: School Counseling
• Master of Arts in Deaf Education
• Master of Arts in Deaf Education Studies
• Master of Arts in Deaf Studies: Cultural Studies
• Master of Arts in Deaf Studies: Language and Human Rights
• Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education and Deaf Education
• Master of Arts in Early Intervention Studies
• Master of Arts in Elementary Education and Deaf Education
• Master of Arts in International Development
• Master of Arts in Interpretation: Combined Interpreting Practice and Research
• Master of Arts in Interpretation: Interpreting Research
• Master of Arts in Secondary Education and Deaf Education
• Master of Arts in Sign Language Education
• Master of Science in Accessible Human-Centered Computing
• Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology
• Master of Public Administration
• Master of Social Work (MSW)

Doctoral Programs

• Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Transformational Leadership and Administration in Deaf Education
• Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Clinical Psychology
• Ph.D. in Critical Studies in the Education of Deaf Learners
• Ph.D. in Hearing, Speech, and Language Sciences
• Ph.D. in Linguistics
• Ph.D. in Translation and Interpreting Studies
• Ph.D. Program in Educational Neuroscience (PEN)
• Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) in School Psychology

Gallaudet University also offers various certificates at the graduate level, such as the Certificate in Educating Deaf Students with Disabilities, Certificate in American Sign Language and English Bilingual Early Childhood Deaf Education, and Certificate in Early Intervention Studies.

The university is committed to providing an accessible and inclusive education for deaf and hard-of-hearing students, with all programs specifically designed to accommodate their needs. Many of the graduate programs build on this focus, offering specialisations in deaf education, deaf studies, and sign language education.

Online programs

Gallaudet University offers a variety of online programs for students to complete their degrees. These programs are designed for students who have already accumulated a certain number of college credits and want to finish their degrees online. The specific number of credits required varies depending on the program and the student's status. For example, the Online Degree Program (ODP) requires 45 college credits for students majoring in Deaf Studies or Psychology, while the Online Degree Completion Programs (ODCP) require 60 hours of college credits for students interested in Deaf Studies or Psychology.

The online programs at Gallaudet University offer flexibility and convenience for students who are unable to attend on-campus classes. Courses are offered in an accelerated 8-week format throughout the year, and classes are asynchronous, meaning students can work independently without the need to meet at specific times. However, good time management skills are essential for success in these highly interactive and learner-centered courses.

Gallaudet University offers the following online programs:

Undergraduate Online Degree Completion Programs (ODCP)

• B.A. in Communication Studies
• B.A. in Deaf Studies
• B.A. in English
• B.A. in Psychology
• B.S. in Accounting
• B.S. in Business Administration

Master's Online Degree Programs

• M.A. in Elementary Education and Deaf Education
• M.A. in Secondary Education and Deaf Education
• Master of Public Administration
• Master of Social Work (MSW)

In addition to these programs, Gallaudet University also offers minors and honours programs that can be completed online. The university provides financial aid and scholarship opportunities to support students in their online educational journey.

Minors

Gallaudet University offers over 30 minors across a range of disciplines. Here is a detailed list of the minor programs available:

• Art History
• Athletic Coaching
• Black Deaf Studies
• Business Administration
• Communication Studies
• Criminal Justice
• Data Science
• Deaf Studies
• Digital Media
• Disability Inclusive DRR & Emergency Planning
• Documentary Studies
• Family Studies
• Graphic Design
• Information Technology
• Linguistics
• Mathematics
• Photography
• Public Health
• Risk Management and Insurance
• Sociology with a concentration in Criminology
• Sport Management
• Theatre Arts: Production/Performance
• Writing

In addition to these minors, students can also pursue the ODCP (Online Degree Completion Program) Minor in Communication Studies, Deaf Studies, Psychology, or Writing. These ODCP minors offer flexible options for students to complete their degree through online courses.

Certificates

Gallaudet University offers a variety of certificate programs designed for working professionals who want to advance their careers. These programs provide a substantial reduction in tuition costs and are tailored to meet professional development requirements. The university offers both undergraduate-level and graduate-level certificates, with courses available on-campus and online.

Certificate in Sexuality and Gender Studies

The Sexuality and Gender Studies Program educates students on cultural, historical, and societal issues faced by the LGBTQ+ community, with a focus on the intersectional identity of deaf and hard-of-hearing LGBTQ+ individuals.

Certificate in Educating Deaf Students with Disabilities

This online certificate prepares educators to work with deaf students with disabilities. It emphasises culturally relevant critical pedagogy to support the holistic development of children and their families.

Certificate in American Sign Language and English Bilingual Early Childhood Deaf Education: Birth to 5

This 21-credit certificate is designed for professionals working with or seeking careers with deaf and hard-of-hearing children from birth to five years old and their families in educational settings.

Certificate in Early Intervention Studies

The Early Intervention Studies certificate is a hybrid program offering online and on-campus instruction. It provides professionals from diverse disciplines with evidence-based knowledge and skills for working with families and their young deaf or hard-of-hearing children.

Certificate in Peer Mentor Training

Gallaudet University offers a certificate in peer mentor training, which can be useful for students who want to develop their mentoring skills and support their peers.

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