Can you be cetified as a interpreter for the deaf without a college degree?

Question

I have a hearing inpaired child and am a so so signer and working very hard on being better. My question is there any type of certification I can obtain to work with the deaf,I would expecially like to work with children. But in my mid 4os going back to school would be hard. I had a VR rep tell me there is a certifcation via Rid I could get my was not sure what it would require for N.C.

Answer 1

not likely...most have to have a two year degree MINIMUM in order to work with deaf

Answer 2

I am a Teacher of the Deaf and in my state (NY) you have to be a certified interpreter for the deaf starting in 2010. The requirements for the certification is that you need to be interpreting for at least 3 years in a school setting and you need to also pass a very comprehensive exam asking questions about school environments, education, etc. I am unsure right now if you also need "professional development" hours towards this certification...it's something to look into.

My student's current interpreter is working towards her certification now....we went to an annual conference a few months back that incorporated the requirements to achieve certification...but I was involved with another course...so I have no idea how that turned out.

Good luck to you!

Answer 3

You would need to contact N. Carolina's state Board of Education for Licensure to see what their requirements are. Each state varies and you haven't specified if you want to work in the school system. A degree in an ITP (Interpreter Training Program) from a college would be ideal, but not all states accept only that. Or they may request you to additionally pass a QA, Quality Assurance, Test. RID does have certification testing-- written, signing and voicing tests. Some states prefer a college degree to RID, as they can be ignorant as to what RID is about. Likewise, NAD also has testing. Do not feel disheartened. You can go online and check with NC's education guidelines. I wish you lots of luck. I've just finished my 18th year interpreting in the public schools, and I'm still loving it! Personally, I prefer high school kids, but I may be slightly crazy after all these years. Love the variety... it's never boring!

Answer 4

I strongly suggest you get certificates working with Deaf children whether it be an ASL interpreter or in the teaching capacity.

However, if you are not up to spending years of study and want to get involved right away using your personal experience then check Yahoo for your local city or state association of the Deaf. They may have their own website or newsletters with ads from organizations or schools looking for people who can lend support or their skills to their programs.

I am from Canada and in the province where I live we have mentoring programs, matching Deaf adults with Deaf children, and recently there was a volunteer opportunity open for someone interested in teaching crafts to Deaf girl scouts, and we have ASL storybook reading in different cities taking place for children younger than 6 years of age, there are sporting programs for Deaf teens, and Sunday school programs for Deaf children. Camps for the Deaf always can use volunteers who are proficient in ASL. All these programs were started by volunteers with a heart and it went on to get provincial fundings, and for some, paid staff.

Start small, dream big!

Answer 5

I have deaf parents, and have also considered a career in interpreting. I had read somewhere that you could take placement tests , that way you could possibly skip beginner's courses. It seems that most would preferably hire a certified interpreter. Of course I'm sure there are always exceptions to the rule. I would try to look up local colleges that offer courses and speak to the head of the dept.
I tried contacting one here, but unfortunately he has not responded. Good luck!

Answer 6

Most community colleges have a program for interpreting (ASL). In order to get hired as an interpreter there are different levels of certification one must obtain. I had a paraprofessional in my classroom this year that was working on her certifications. Some employers are accepting of not having certification or degree if you are actively pursuing them.

As it goes with most things these days a degree is your best bet.

You're never too old to learn!

Answer 7

surely. each from time to time that is effectual to take some trip from college. bypass artwork and notice the way you like the roles that are available. in case you stumble on one you like and make a competent residing at, cool. If as a substitute you stumble on which you decide on a job that makes additional funds or one you may get promotions in, maybe think of approximately taking some training in the evenings or on line. i've got seen the two components of this question, somebody who incredibly graduated extreme college making 6 figures (owns their own enterprise) and individuals with BA stages doing basically besides. It incredibly relies upon on what you decide on out of life and what form of interest. sturdy success!

Answer 8

You got some good answers already- I strongly encourage you to become an interpreter if anything it will strengthen your ability to advocate for your H.I. child and encourage you and he/she to develop her/his vocabulary.
Get going on it right away good luck and I wish more parents would do what you are doing!! Of all the D/HH students I have had, those with good ASL from home far surpassed those without, no matter what degree of hearing loss.

Answer 9

Are there any courses you can do as a Teachers Aide? Or short courses for Sign Language?