Special Pedagogy: Sign Language Interpreting

What is taught in this program

This program is aimed at ensuring communication with people who have hearing impairments. Students study sign language in depth, including its grammar and vocabulary. The curriculum covers the following main areas:

• sign language and its theoretical foundations;
• deaf pedagogy and the psychology of people with hearing impairments;
• Uzbek and foreign languages, translation theory and practice;
• skills of interpreting between spoken and sign language;
• foundations of special pedagogy and inclusive education.

The program is offered at Chirchik State Pedagogical University, National Pedagogical University of Uzbekistan, Kokand State University, and Tashkent State Medical University. Practical classes and study placements place strong emphasis on developing communication skills.

Who will graduates become

Graduates work as professional sign language interpreters. They act as interpreters between people with hearing impairments and hearing people, and they can also work in the field of special pedagogy. Main professional paths include:

• sign language interpreter;
• sign language teacher;
• special educator or deaf pedagogue;
• specialist in inclusive education;
• social support worker.

Where can you work

Graduates may find employment in a variety of fields:

• special schools, inclusive education institutions and kindergartens;
• courts, medical institutions and public services (as interpreters);
• mass media, television programs and cultural events;
• public organizations supporting people with disabilities;
• higher education institutions and research centers.

In Uzbekistan, qualified sign language interpreters play an important role in services provided to people with hearing impairments.

Who is this program suited for

This program suits those who:

• enjoy helping people and communicating with them;
• are interested in languages and ready to learn them;
• are patient, empathetic and attentive;
• have a sense of precise hand movements and strong visual perception;
• are interested in the ideas of an inclusive society.

We recommend checking admission requirements and conditions on the official websites of the higher education institutions.