COURSE CURRICULUM

The BA (Hons) British Sign Language and Deaf Studies course provides a deep understanding of Deaf culture, community, and communication through immersive language learning and academic exploration. In Year 1, students are introduced to the foundations of Deaf identity and communication with modules such as Deaf People in Society, Deaf Communities and Culture, and Education for Everyone?, alongside studies in Language, Gender and Identity. They begin intensive BSL training through multiple language levels from British Sign Language 100 to 250, developing essential signing and comprehension skills. Year 2 expands this foundation with modules such as Deaf World Debates and Learners with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), encouraging critical engagement with current issues in Deaf education, rights, and inclusion. Students continue to enhance their signing proficiency with advanced BSL modules up to levels 300 and 350, focusing on fluency, linguistic structure, and interpretation skills. In the final year, students undertake a Dissertation, applying their research and analytical abilities to a topic of interest within Deaf studies. BSL modules from levels 300 to 400 further refine professional communication and interpreting skills. This comprehensive program equips graduates with linguistic competence, cultural awareness, and research skills essential for careers in interpreting, education, and community advocacy.