Courses in American Sign Language will be offered this fall at Troy University Montgomery through the University’s Interpreter Training Program.

American Sign Language I will be offered in Term 1, which runs from Aug. 14 to Oct. 15. American Sign Language II will be offered in Term 2, beginning Oct. 16 and running through Dec. 17.

In 2008, Troy University initiated the state’s first Bachelor of Science degree in Interpreter Training to help fill a need created by a lack of qualified interpreters for the deaf and hard of hearing in Alabama. The program, currently offered at the Troy Campus and through TROY Online, prepares students for national certification and careers in the interpreting field, as well as providing interpreting skills that can prove to be a valuable asset across many career fields. A minor in Interpreter Training is also available.

“Offering American Sign Language courses on the TROY Montgomery campus this fall is the first step in expanding what the Interpreter Training Program does in the city of Montgomery,” said Dr. Lance Tatum, vice chancellor of the Montgomery Campus. “From the program’s genesis, we have always wanted to offer ASL and Interpreting courses face-to-face in the State Capital. I’m pleased to see the College of Education taking steps to make that a reality.”

Judy Robertson, Interpreter Training Program director, said expanding course offerings to the Montgomery Campus will help the program connect with additional resources available in the Montgomery area, and ultimately provide more opportunities for students to succeed in the field.

“We hope that these courses will spark further interest in the Interpreter Training Program among students at our Montgomery Campus,” said Judy Robertson, program director. “Offering courses at the Montgomery Campus also provides the opportunity to take advantage of resources in Montgomery and the surrounding areas to grow the program and improve student success.”

Registration for fall terms 1 and 2 is currently ongoing at the Montgomery Campus with Term 1 classes beginning Aug. 14. For additional information, contact the Office of Admissions at 334-241-5407.