CPCC's Interpreter Education Program has been evaluated by the Conference of Interpreter Trainers as being in full compliance with the National Interpreter Education Standards.

We are the FIRST  community college in the nation to meet these standards!!

Let’s talk about some of the important questions people ask us when they’re thinking about a future in Interpreter Education.

First let's find out what the career as an interpreter is all about!!

 Click here and  Discover Interpreting!!

Are Good Jobs Available?
The demand for skilled interpreters has never been higher. There is currently a shortage of qualified interpreters to meet the demand and it is projected that the needs will continue to increase. Graduates of the program may find employment interpreting in interactive situations where deaf and hearing people need to communicate with each other. You may choose to be self-employed as a free-lance interpreter or have a position within human services, state and educational agencies. There is also a growing demand for interpreters to be employed as video relay interpreters or video remote interpreters.

Will I Enjoy This Field?
Working as an interpreter is a demanding but highly rewarding and stimulating career. It allows you the opportunity to work with a variety of people. As a free-lance interpreter, you also have the flexibility of scheduling your assignments around your own personal schedule. If you like travel, you an accept assignments around the state. If you want a full-time job, those are also available within community agencies and educational systems. The potential for growth and development within the field is limitless.

How Long Will It Take?
You can complete the Associate in Applied Science Degree in Interpreter Training in two years if you can attend class full time. Flexible scheduling should make it possible for you to work classes around a job, although it will take longer to complete the program. Evening classes are also available for students wanting to complete their degree on a part time basis.

What Will I Study?
Our program teaches the basic principles of interpreting. The core program consists of courses in American Deaf Culture, linguistics, analytical skills, discourse analysis, basic translation skills, consecutive interpreting and simultaneous interpreting.

In addition to classroom instruction, the interpreting program offers a state-of-the-art interactive language lab, so that students can practice interpreting skills with recorded material. The program ‘s goal is to provide students with quality instruction so that they can become excellent interpreters. During their time of enrollment are also required to participate in activities within the Deaf Community to further develop their sign language skills.

Upon graduation students can work as entry-level sign language Interpreters .

Do I Qualify?
A high school diploma or equivalent is required for admission to the program. Your skills and aptitude in math and English will be measured after you enroll, to make sure you enter at a level that guarantees the best chance for success. If you already have sign language skills and/or interpreting skills, an instructor will evaluate your skills and discuss your career goals with you to determine the best place for you.