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Certificate of Achievement
American Sign Language

The Certificate of Achievement in American Sign Language is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in communication though American Sign Language (ASL). This certificate is intended for students pursuing other degrees or careers not directly related to Deaf people or ASL but who still want to learn the language. With this certificate, the student can petition their employer for any benefits that may be available for those who have skills in ASL.  Students who successfully complete the certificate will be able to communicate competently in ASL on topics related to their profession.  While students will not be able to act as an interpreter, they will be able to communicate directly with clients, customers, coworkers, or community members without the need for interpretation.  Students will also have spent time within the Deaf community and will be familiar with where and how to locate social events related to the Deaf community and Deaf culture.

Please contact the Student Success Team for this program if you have any questions.

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Sample Education Plan

This sample education plan for the 2024-2025 catalog year represents one possible pathway through the program. Each university (UC, CSU, private, and others) has their own transfer requirements; please see a counselor to create an education plan that is customized to meet your needs. Additional course descriptions may be found in the College Catalog.
CourseUnitsTypically Offered
1st Semester
ASL 101 - American Sign Language IM4.5
ASL 101 - American Sign Language I (4.5 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course will provide an introduction to American Sign Language, emphasizing receptive and expressive skills. The use of facial expressions during signing will also be addressed. Students will be exposed to deaf culture experiences in the classroom and other environments. In addition to classroom discussion, students will receive intensive individualized practice in American Sign Language via interactive websites, video programs, and CD-ROMs. This course is designed for students who want to learn how to communicate with people who are deaf and hard of hearing.

Total Semester Units:4.5 
2nd Semester
ASL 102 - American Sign Language IIM4.5
ASL 102 - American Sign Language II (4.5 units)

Prerequisite:ASL 101,(formerly ASL 149) or two years of high school ASL with a "C" or better or successfully pass an interview and comprehensive exam developed by the department demonstrating competency of the skills required in an ASL I course.
Transfers to:UC, CSU

This course will provide a continuation to American Sign Language I (ASL 101), emphasizing receptive and expressive skills. The use of facial expressions during signing will also be addressed. Students will be exposed to deaf culture experiences in the classroom and other environments. In addition to classroom discussion, students will receive intensive individualized practice in the language laboratory via interactive websites, video programs, and CD-ROMs. This course is designed for students who want to learn how to communicate with people who are deaf and hard of hearing.

Total Semester Units:4.5 
3rd Semester
ASL 201 - American Sign Language IIIM4.5
ASL 201 - American Sign Language III (4.5 units)

Prerequisite: ASL 102
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course will focus on refining students’ knowledge of the grammatical structure and lexicon of American Sign Language as these things relate to its historical, artistic, and cultural influence in mainstream society, with an emphasis on receptive/expressive conversational and cultural skills for communication. In addition to classroom discussion, students will receive intensive individualized practice in the language laboratory via interactive websites, video programs, and CD-ROMs.

Total Semester Units:4.5 
4th Semester
ASL 202 - American Sign Language IVM4.5
ASL 202 - American Sign Language IV (4.5 units)

Prerequisite: ASL 201
Transfers to:CSU

This course will provide a continuation to American Sign Language III (ASL 201). The course will focus on the use of American Sign Language in practical applications through discussing relevant topics like math, current events, arts, and various other topics, with an emphasis on applying the language in real world interactions. In addition to classroom discussion, students will receive intensive individualized practice in the language laboratory via interactive websites, video programs, and CD-ROMs.

Total Semester Units:4.5 
Total Units for American Sign Language COA program 18.0 
Notes:
AP exams and courses taken outside of Rio Hondo College may fulfill general education and/or major requirements. Please check with a counselor.
Legend:
M Major course; course may also meet a general education requirement
Advising Sheet:
Click or tap here to open the program's advising sheet.

Program Learning Outcomes

1

Students will be able to communicate in ASL with community members outside of the classroom.


2

Students will be able to interact in a culturally appropriate manner with members of the Deaf community.


3

Students will demonstrate confidence in communicating with ASL.


About RHC

Rio Hondo College, serving the communities of El Monte, Pico Rivera, Santa Fe Springs, South El Monte, and Whittier for over 50 years.

Contact

Rio Hondo College
3600 Workman Mill Road
Whittier, CA 90601

Phone: (562) 692-0921
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