New Zealand Sign Language and Deaf Studies Major - Bachelor of Arts
Language & Literature
A course by
AUT
Gain communication strategies in New Zealand Sign Language and the cultural knowledge needed to work effectively with Deaf clients and colleagues. This major is designed for a wide range of professions that engage with the Deaf community.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
City Campus, Auckland
It will take a total of 3 years
Core skills this course teaches
Fluency in New Zealand Sign Language
Develop receptive and expressive fluency in NZSL, enabling advanced communication with Deaf individuals.
Understanding Deaf Culture
Gain a deep knowledge of the Deaf community, its culture, history, and values.
Application of NZSL in Professional Settings
Apply NZSL and Deaf cultural knowledge in workplaces such as education, health, law, and social services.
What You're Signing Up For
The New Zealand Sign Language and Deaf Studies major within AUT's Bachelor of Arts develops your fluency in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) and your understanding of Deaf culture. The course covers receptive and expressive language skills, cultural and community studies, and the professional and workplace contexts of NZSL use. You'll gain workplace experience and have opportunities for industry placements. The programme is suitable for roles in education, health, law, social services, and any customer-facing field.
Course Content
- Development of receptive and expressive proficiency in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)
- Deaf community and culture studies
- Language acquisition and interpreting profession
- Intercultural competence
- Work integrated learning (workplace experience placement)
- Academic Communication
- Cultural and societal issues relating to Deaf studies
- Comparative analysis of English and NZSL
- Research and inquiry skills
What you need to know first
University Entrance or equivalent
If you lack prior NZSL experience, additional foundation courses may be required
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Education
Health
Legal
Social Services
Customer Service
Future employment opportunities might be
Teacher
Disability service coordinator