American Sign Language (ASL) is growing in use every day. Hundreds of colleges and universities accept ASL in fulfillment of a language entrance and exit requirement. Schools for the Deaf may have many deaf and hard of hearing students, dramatically increasing the need for sign language teachers. Many school systems are now mainstreaming their deaf and hard of hearing students, increasing the need for sign language interpreters. Television stations are using sign language in programs and advertising, and employers are looking for applicants who can sign. Mothers are often teaching their babies to sign in order to communicate many months earlier than with spoken language alone.
Courses Offered
Six levels of language instruction and multiple ASL elective classes are offered. Please note that ASL 1 courses are only open to non-seniors. Visit the ASL Course Descriptions page for information about ASL courses offered at the University of Pittsburgh.
The ASL Studies Certificate
Learn more about the ASL studies certificate.
Why Study American Sign Language?
- ASL is the fastest growing language offered at colleges nationwide
- To learn more about the Deaf community and Deaf culture
- ASL interpreters are in high demand!
ASL Outside The Classroom
- University of Pittsburgh ASL Club (Instagram)
- Pittsburgh Association of the Deaf
- Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf
- Pressley Ridge School for the Deaf
Use ASL to Earn Pitt Credentials
- ASL Certificate
- General Education Requirements
- Linguistics Major Language Requirement
- Supplement Your CSD Major
What do students say?
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"Studying ASL has led to many great opportunities, including an internship at a school for the Deaf!" -Taylor '16
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"ASL gave me the opportunity to communicate with a whole new group of people and experience Deaf culture firsthand" -Ryan '16
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"Studying ASL at Pitt gave me access and the ability to interact with a completely different culture that I would not have known existed otherwise" -Jenna '16
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