A minor in Deaf Studies introduces the participant to essential information regarding hearing loss and deaf culture. In addition, basic sign language skills are developed. This course of study enables individuals to have a better understanding of the needs of persons who are deaf and hard-of-hearing and to communicate with individuals within the deaf community at a basic level.
The minor is an 18-credit program with 15 required and 3 elective credits. Required credits include the core courses that are essential to understanding the language and culture of the deaf community. The elective credits allow the minor candidate to select a more focused area of concentration.
Students must maintain a cumulative GPA of not less than 2.5 to enter and complete the minor. Except for the introductory courses, EDHL 114 and EDHL 115 , only students who have officially declared a deaf studies minor will be able to schedule the designated courses. The grade received in American Sign Language courses must be a “C” or better to complete the minor.
This minor would be of interest to anthropology, criminology, education, nursing, psychology, disability services, and sociology majors and anyone else who is interested in interacting with persons who are deaf or hard-of hearing.