American Sign Language
Level 1 & 2
Overview
The American Sign Language (ASL) Program offers two progressive levels designed to help learners build confidence and fluency in ASL communication while deepening their understanding of Deaf culture.
Level 1 focuses on developing a strong foundation in ASL through three interactive courses. Students gain essential skills in fingerspelling, basic vocabulary, non-manual signals, and conversational strategies. They learn to describe people and objects, use spatial techniques, and engage in structured dialogues while exploring Deaf culture and community norms.
Level 2 expands upon these foundational skills with more advanced language structures and cultural concepts. Students refine their expressive and receptive abilities to reach an intermediate level of ASL proficiency and strengthen their cultural awareness and communication competence within the Deaf community.
By completing both levels, learners will be equipped to communicate confidently and appropriately in a variety of everyday ASL interactions.
Admissions
Admission Requirements
There are no admission requirements for this program.
English is the language of instruction at Assiniboine. All applicants educated outside of Canada or in a country not on the test exempt list are expected to meet the English language proficiency requirements.
Tools & Supplies
Program Checklists, Textbooks, and Supplies
Textbooks:
- Level 1: COMM-0047, COMM-0048, COMM-0049
Signing Naturally, Units 1-6. Smith, C.; Lentz, E; Mikos, K; California: Dawn Sign Press 1988 - Level 2: COMM-0050, COMM-0051, COMM-0052
Signing Naturally, Level 2 Smith, C.; Lentz, E; Mikos, K; California: Dawn Sign Press 1988
Assiniboine Bookstore
Textbooks, supplies and uniforms may be purchased at the Assiniboine Bookstore at the Victoria Avenue East Campus. Booklists, tool lists and supply lists are available from your school office 30 days prior to the start date of your program.
Technology Requirements
All of our programs require the use of a computer with internet access. Some resources may be available on campus. For more details, see At-Home Computing.
Courses & Costs
The American Sign Language (ASL) Level 1 and Level 2 programs offer a flexible, blended learning experience designed to fit busy schedules. Most classes are delivered synchronously online, allowing students to learn from anywhere, with some in-person days dedicated to hands-on skill development and direct interaction with the instructor.
Costs
Tuition, fees, and Students’ Association fees total approximately $1,285 per level, with an additional $95 application fee.
For more information, visit the Fees and Charges page.
Courses
To earn a Document of Achievement in American Sign Language Level 1 or Level 2, students must successfully complete 9 credits.
Level 1 Courses
- American Sign Language ASL101 (COMM-0047) | 3 credits
- American Sign Language ASL102 (COMM-0048) | 3 credits
- American Sign Language ASL103 (COMM-0049) | 3 credits
Level 2 Courses
- American Sign Language ASL201 (COMM-0050) | 3 credits
- American Sign Language ASL202 (COMM-0051) | 3 credits
- American Sign Language ASL203 (COMM-0052) | 3 credits
FAQs
Do I need to apply to the American Sign Language program?
Yes. Although there are no admission requirements, an application is required. Apply now!
How do I register for courses in the American Sign Language program?
Once you have been accepted to the program, you will receive email instructions on how to register and pay for your courses online through Assiniboine Connect.
I’ve successfully completed all the required courses. How do I receive my credential?
Students that have successfully completed all the program requirements can complete an Application to Graduate form and email to [email protected] to receive their credential.