Deaf Studies (Bachelor of Arts, B.A.)
The Deaf Studies (B.A.) study is designed to provide a scientifically-based, career-related basic qualification for educational, therapeutic, consulting and language-related jobs with Deaf Sign Language users, people born Deaf, who have become deaf or are hard of hearing.
Table of Contents
At a glance
Course structure and content
he central focus of study is the linguistic-cultural communities of sign language users, the linguistic structure, usage and acquisition of sign languages. One of core aspects is intensive training of German Sign Language (DGS) which will enable graduates to communicate with Deaf Sign Language users. In addition, students will gain knowledge and insights of disability as a social construction, role of institutions and culture in the lives of people who are either sign language users, Deaf, deafened or hard-of-hearing.
One credit point (CP) is calculated to equal an average workload of 25 to max. 30 hours for preparation, follow-up and attendance at classes.
Mandatory modules (140 CP)
| Module | Title | Size |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Introduction to Deaf Studies | 5 CP |
| 2 | Introduction to Linguistics | 5 CP |
| 3 | Pedagogical aspects of Deafhood | 5 CP |
| 4 | Introduction to Rehabilitation Sciences | 5 CP |
| 5 | Sociology and Ethnology of Deaf Communities I | 5 CP |
| 6 | Sociology and Ethnology of Deaf Communities II | 10 CP |
| 7 | Sign Language Linguistics | 10 CP |
| 8 | Practical Foundations | 5 CP |
| 9 | German Sign Language A1+ | 10 CP |
| 10 | German Sign Language A2 | 10 CP |
| 11 | German Sign Language A2+ | 10 CP |
| 12 | German Sign Language B1 | 10 CP |
| 13 | German Sign Language B1+/B2 | 10 CP |
| 14 | Alternative Sign Language systems | 10 CP |
| 15 | Research project Deaf Studies | 5 CP |
| 16 | Deaf Studies Internship | 10 CP |
| 17 | Final Colloquium and B.A. Thesis | 15 CP |
Mandatory elective modules (20 CP)
Choose one of the following profile areas:
Profile area A: Public Social Services for Deaf people
| Module | Title | Size |
|---|---|---|
| A 18 | Public Social Services for Deaf people I | 10 CP |
| A 19 | Public Social Services for Deaf people II | 10 CP |
Profile area B: Interpreting and Translation
| Module | Title | Size |
|---|---|---|
| B 20 | Introduction to Interpreting and Translation of Sign Languages | 10 CP |
| B 21 | Practical Foundations in Interpreting | 10 CP |
General elective modules (20 CP)
Modules totaling 20 ECTS credits can be freely chosen from the designated module catalogues of other subjects or central institutions.
General elective course offerings (ÜWP) for students coming from other courses of studies
| Module | Title | Size |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Introduction to Deaf Studies | 5 CP |
| 2 | Introduction to Linguistics | 5 CP |
Special features
Knowledge of German Sign Language (DGS) is not a prerequisite for application. To help you decide whether to study, we recommend attending a basic course to get a first impression of the language and find out whether you have the motivation to learn sign language, which you will study in depth during your study programme. In order to ultimately obtain a Bachelor’s degree in "Deaf Studies," proof of proficiency in German Sign Language equivalent to five semesters is a prerequisite.
The subject Deaf Studies at Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin is unique in the German-speaking world and is a leader in the fields of research, awareness-raising and knowledge transfer. It is attended by both hearing and deaf students and hearing students who have deaf parents. The teaching staff is also composed of hearing and deaf lecturers. In accordance with the international profile of Deaf Studies as a research field, the department has extensive networks with international institutions. Furthermore, Deaf Studies is also the only course that provides extensive preparation for the M.A. course in Sign Language Interpreting which is offered in the same department.
Subject-specific admission and enrolment rules
Career opportunities & prospects
The study of Deaf Studies also provides as intensive preparation for those applying for the M.A. in 'Sign Language Interpreting', leading to a professional career as an interpreter and/or translator and dedicated solely to interpreter training with theoretical and practical foundations.
Furthermore, the study of Deaf Studies does not only provide preparation for M.A. in Sign Language Interpreting but also covers a number of further professional objectives.
Find out more in the HU study programme or via the database Hochschulkompass nationwide.
Various professional fields are open to graduates of the Deaf Studies (B.A.): Deaf associations, government agencies and public services, counselling services for Deaf people, Early Education services, kindergartens or schools and/or retirement homes, as well as other social, cultural, rehabilitative or medical institutions. In addition, there is the option of working as a family assistant for families with Deaf members. The Deaf Studies B.A. also serves as an academic qualification for deaf individuals wishing to work as sign language instructors.
More information on career prospects and alternatives can be found in the Berufenet database.