George Brown Polytechnic is located on the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and other Indigenous peoples who have lived here over time. We are grateful to share this land as treaty people who learn, work and live in the community with each other.
ASL and Deaf Studies

Program Details
Online- Program Code: C144
- Credential: Ontario College Certificate
- Duration: 2 semesters
- Method of Study: Full-time
- Starting Months: September
- Domestic Tuition: $4,489.00 *
Program Availability
| Semester | Domestic | International |
|---|---|---|
| Fall 2027 | Open | Not Available |
| Winter 2028 | Not Available | Not Available |
| Spring 2028 | Not Available | Not Available |
- PGWP Eligible: No
- CIP Code: 16.1601
- Please note that field of study/CIP code is only one component of PGWP eligibility. Please consult the official IRCC PGWP eligibility webpage (opens in a new tab) for the most current and complete information.
Get answers to your questions
Book info sessionProgram Description
Leadership Claims
This American Sign Language (ASL) and Deaf Studies program is unique in Ontario.
Program Overview
The American Sign Language and Deaf Studies certificate provides intensive instruction in American Sign Language (ASL) and English, helping you develop fluency in ASL while building an orientation to Deaf culture.
This synchronous online program open to both Deaf and non-Deaf students. Classes are delivered live on Zoom Monday to Friday between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Full Description
The one-year American Sign Language and Deaf Studies (C144) online certificate program helps you develop foundational skills in ASL while building an understanding of Deaf culture. It is an excellent choice if you are planning to pursue George Brown Polytechnic's Honours Bachelor of Interpretation (American Sign Language - English) program or want to combine ASL with another career.
The program provides intensive instruction in:
- American Sign Language (ASL) and English
- Deaf culture
- Current social issues affecting Deaf communities
The curriculum combines opportunities to study and practice ASL with instruction in the language's structure and features.
As a student in this program, you will:
- Learn to understand and participate in basic conversations in ASL
- Strengthen your spoken and written English skills
- Develop a foundational understanding of the role of ASL within the ASL community
Your Field Education Options
While the American Sign Language and Deaf Studies program does not include a formal field placement, you will have opportunities to develop and practice your ASL skills through interactive simulations and classroom activities.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Educational Pathways
The American Sign Language and Deaf Studies program provides a strong foundation for further study in ASL and Deaf Studies. Upon graduation, you may choose to continue your education in programs such as these offered at George Brown:
- Honours Bachelor of Interpretation (American Sign Language – English) (C302) program or similar American Sign Language-English Interpreter programs at other post-secondary institutions. The American Sign Language and Deaf Studies certificate is a recommended prerequisite.
- Deafblind & Intervenor Studies (C158) one-year certificate program, where you will learn to communicate with individuals who are Deafblind using an adapted form of ASL.
Courses
Semester 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COMM1000 | Introduction to College Communication |
| COMM1022 | English Foundation for ASL Students |
| SIGN1056 | Introduction to Anti-Oppressive Practice |
| SIGN1057 | ASL Immersion I |
| SIGN1058 | ASL Seminar I |
Semester 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COMM2000 | Communicating Across Contexts |
| SIGN1063 | Signed Language Communities |
| SIGN1064 | ASL Immersion II |
| SIGN1065 | ASL Seminar II |
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Communicate effectively in oral and written English.
- Express and receive messages accurately in routine conversations using American Sign Language.
- Apply basic knowledge of Deaf culture, the Deaf community and the interpreter profession.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service, and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2026. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2027 and at later dates. This fee does not include books, E-text and other material, which are to be purchased by students separately.
** Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2026. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2027 and at later dates. This fee does not include books, E-text and other material, which are to be purchased by students separately.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Each year we award over $2 million dollars in scholarships, awards and bursaries to first-year students. Check out our financial aid webpages for ways to pay for college and the full list of available scholarships, awards and bursaries.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- grade 12 English (C or U)
** Mature Student Status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit the Transfer Guide for more information.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
Contact Us
School of Deaf and Deafblind Studies
Email: communityservices@georgebrown.ca
Our office hours are 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Erika Stebbings, ASL & Deaf Studies Program Coordinator
Program Description
Leadership Claims
This American Sign Language (ASL) and Deaf Studies program is unique in Ontario.
Program Overview
The American Sign Language and Deaf Studies certificate provides intensive instruction in American Sign Language (ASL) and English, helping you develop fluency in ASL while building an orientation to Deaf culture.
This synchronous online program open to both Deaf and non-Deaf students. Classes are delivered live on Zoom Monday to Friday between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Full Description
The one-year American Sign Language and Deaf Studies (C144) online certificate program helps you develop foundational skills in ASL while building an understanding of Deaf culture. It is an excellent choice if you are planning to pursue George Brown Polytechnic's Honours Bachelor of Interpretation (American Sign Language - English) program or want to combine ASL with another career.
The program provides intensive instruction in:
- American Sign Language (ASL) and English
- Deaf culture
- Current social issues affecting Deaf communities
The curriculum combines opportunities to study and practice ASL with instruction in the language's structure and features.
As a student in this program, you will:
- Learn to understand and participate in basic conversations in ASL
- Strengthen your spoken and written English skills
- Develop a foundational understanding of the role of ASL within the ASL community
Your Field Education Options
While the American Sign Language and Deaf Studies program does not include a formal field placement, you will have opportunities to develop and practice your ASL skills through interactive simulations and classroom activities.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Educational Pathways
The American Sign Language and Deaf Studies program provides a strong foundation for further study in ASL and Deaf Studies. Upon graduation, you may choose to continue your education in programs such as these offered at George Brown:
- Honours Bachelor of Interpretation (American Sign Language – English) (C302) program or similar American Sign Language-English Interpreter programs at other post-secondary institutions. The American Sign Language and Deaf Studies certificate is a recommended prerequisite.
- Deafblind & Intervenor Studies (C158) one-year certificate program, where you will learn to communicate with individuals who are Deafblind using an adapted form of ASL.
Courses
Semester 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COMM1000 | Introduction to College Communication |
| COMM1022 | English Foundation for ASL Students |
| SIGN1056 | Introduction to Anti-Oppressive Practice |
| SIGN1057 | ASL Immersion I |
| SIGN1058 | ASL Seminar I |
Semester 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COMM2000 | Communicating Across Contexts |
| SIGN1063 | Signed Language Communities |
| SIGN1064 | ASL Immersion II |
| SIGN1065 | ASL Seminar II |
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service, and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2026. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2027 and at later dates. This fee does not include books, E-text and other material, which are to be purchased by students separately.
** Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2026. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2027 and at later dates. This fee does not include books, E-text and other material, which are to be purchased by students separately.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Each year we award over $2 million dollars in scholarships, awards and bursaries to first-year students. Check out our financial aid webpages for ways to pay for college and the full list of available scholarships, awards and bursaries.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- grade 12 English (C or U)
** Mature Student Status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit the Transfer Guide for more information.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Communicate effectively in oral and written English.
- Express and receive messages accurately in routine conversations using American Sign Language.
- Apply basic knowledge of Deaf culture, the Deaf community and the interpreter profession.
Contact Us
School of Deaf and Deafblind Studies
Email: communityservices@georgebrown.ca
Our office hours are 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Erika Stebbings, ASL & Deaf Studies Program Coordinator
Get answers to your questions
Book info sessionASL and Deaf Studies

Program Details
Online- Program Code: C144
- Credential: Ontario College Certificate
- Duration: 2 semesters
- Method of Study: Full-time
- Starting Months: September
- Domestic Tuition: $4,314.00 *
- Fall 2026 Delivery: Semester 1: Online
- Winter 2027 Delivery: Semester 2: Online
Program Availability
| Semester | Domestic | International |
|---|---|---|
| Fall 2026 | Closed | Not Available |
| Winter 2027 | Not Available | Not Available |
| Spring 2027 | Not Available | Not Available |
- PGWP Eligible: No
- CIP Code: 16.1601
- Please note that field of study/CIP code is only one component of PGWP eligibility. Please consult the official IRCC PGWP eligibility webpage (opens in a new tab) for the most current and complete information.
Get answers to your questions
Book info sessionProgram Description
Leadership Claims
This American Sign Language (ASL) and Deaf Studies college program is unique in Ontario.
Program Overview
The American Sign Language and Deaf Studies certificate is a fully online, synchronous program, where students meet live with professors on Zoom. It is open to both Deaf and non-Deaf learners, with classes offered Monday to Friday between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. This program will provide you with intensive training in American Sign Language (ASL) and English.
Full Description
The one-year online American Sign Language and Deaf Studies (C144) certificate program will help you develop your skills in ASL. If you are considering the Honours Bachelor of Interpretation (ASL – English) program, or if you want to combine ASL with another career, this program is highly recommended.
This program provides intensive preparation in:
- American Sign Language (ASL) and English
- an orientation to Deaf culture
- current social issues affecting Deaf people
The curriculum combines opportunities to study and practice ASL with learning about the structure and features of the language.
As a student in this program, you will have the opportunity to:
- learn, understand and participate in basic conversations in ASL
- develop stronger skills in spoken and written English
- develop a beginning understanding of the role of ASL within the ASL Community
Your Field Education Options
The American Sign Language and Deaf Studies program does not have a formal field placement requirement, but it does offer opportunities to practice your ASL skills through simulations and class activities.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Educational Pathways
The American Sign Language and Deaf Studies program is an excellent program to prepare you for further related studies. Upon graduation from this program, you can consider applying to:
- George Brown's Honours Bachelor of Interpretation (American Sign Language – English) (C302) program or similar American Sign Language-English Interpreter programs at other colleges. The American Sign Language and Deaf Studies program is a recommended prerequisite.
- George Brown's Deafblind & Intervenor Studies (C158) one-year certificate program that uses an adapted form of ASL to communicate with the Deafblind.
If upon graduation from this program you decide to pursue a non-related career, you may apply to George Brown or other colleges similar programs at other colleges to further pursue a non-related career.
Courses
Semester 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COMM1000 | Introduction to College Communication |
| COMM1022 | English Foundation for ASL Students |
| SIGN1056 | Introduction to Anti-Oppressive Practice |
| SIGN1057 | ASL Immersion I |
| SIGN1058 | ASL Seminar I |
Semester 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COMM2000 | Communicating Across Contexts |
| SIGN1063 | Signed Language Communities |
| SIGN1064 | ASL Immersion II |
| SIGN1065 | ASL Seminar II |
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Communicate effectively in oral and written English.
- Express and receive messages accurately in routine conversations using American Sign Language.
- Apply basic knowledge of Deaf culture, the Deaf community and the interpreter profession.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service, and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2025. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2026 and at later dates. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by students separately.
** Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2026. Tuition fees are subject to board approval. Material, student service and ancillary fees are estimated based on prior years. All fees are subject to change without notice. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Each year we award over $2 million dollars in scholarships, awards and bursaries to first-year students. Check out our financial aid webpages for ways to pay for college and the full list of available scholarships, awards and bursaries.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- grade 12 English (C or U)
** Mature Student Status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit the Transfer Guide for more information.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
Contact Us
School of Deaf and Deafblind Studies
Email: communityservices@georgebrown.ca
Our office hours are 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Erika Stebbings, ASL & Deaf Studies Program Coordinator
Program Description
Leadership Claims
This American Sign Language (ASL) and Deaf Studies college program is unique in Ontario.
Program Overview
The American Sign Language and Deaf Studies certificate is a fully online, synchronous program, where students meet live with professors on Zoom. It is open to both Deaf and non-Deaf learners, with classes offered Monday to Friday between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. This program will provide you with intensive training in American Sign Language (ASL) and English.
Full Description
The one-year online American Sign Language and Deaf Studies (C144) certificate program will help you develop your skills in ASL. If you are considering the Honours Bachelor of Interpretation (ASL – English) program, or if you want to combine ASL with another career, this program is highly recommended.
This program provides intensive preparation in:
- American Sign Language (ASL) and English
- an orientation to Deaf culture
- current social issues affecting Deaf people
The curriculum combines opportunities to study and practice ASL with learning about the structure and features of the language.
As a student in this program, you will have the opportunity to:
- learn, understand and participate in basic conversations in ASL
- develop stronger skills in spoken and written English
- develop a beginning understanding of the role of ASL within the ASL Community
Your Field Education Options
The American Sign Language and Deaf Studies program does not have a formal field placement requirement, but it does offer opportunities to practice your ASL skills through simulations and class activities.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Educational Pathways
The American Sign Language and Deaf Studies program is an excellent program to prepare you for further related studies. Upon graduation from this program, you can consider applying to:
- George Brown's Honours Bachelor of Interpretation (American Sign Language – English) (C302) program or similar American Sign Language-English Interpreter programs at other colleges. The American Sign Language and Deaf Studies program is a recommended prerequisite.
- George Brown's Deafblind & Intervenor Studies (C158) one-year certificate program that uses an adapted form of ASL to communicate with the Deafblind.
If upon graduation from this program you decide to pursue a non-related career, you may apply to George Brown or other colleges similar programs at other colleges to further pursue a non-related career.
Courses
Semester 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COMM1000 | Introduction to College Communication |
| COMM1022 | English Foundation for ASL Students |
| SIGN1056 | Introduction to Anti-Oppressive Practice |
| SIGN1057 | ASL Immersion I |
| SIGN1058 | ASL Seminar I |
Semester 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COMM2000 | Communicating Across Contexts |
| SIGN1063 | Signed Language Communities |
| SIGN1064 | ASL Immersion II |
| SIGN1065 | ASL Seminar II |
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service, and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2025. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2026 and at later dates. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by students separately.
** Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2026. Tuition fees are subject to board approval. Material, student service and ancillary fees are estimated based on prior years. All fees are subject to change without notice. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Each year we award over $2 million dollars in scholarships, awards and bursaries to first-year students. Check out our financial aid webpages for ways to pay for college and the full list of available scholarships, awards and bursaries.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- grade 12 English (C or U)
** Mature Student Status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit the Transfer Guide for more information.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Communicate effectively in oral and written English.
- Express and receive messages accurately in routine conversations using American Sign Language.
- Apply basic knowledge of Deaf culture, the Deaf community and the interpreter profession.
Contact Us
School of Deaf and Deafblind Studies
Email: communityservices@georgebrown.ca
Our office hours are 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Erika Stebbings, ASL & Deaf Studies Program Coordinator
