The Bachelor of Arts in Deaf Studies at SUNY New Paltz is designed to broaden students’ knowledge and understanding of deafness, Deaf Culture, and Deaf communities past and present; build competency in American Sign Language; facilitate effective, culturally sensitive communication with people who are Deaf and hard of hearing (DHH); and encourage positive interactions in social and professional settings. Students will learn about the discrimination and civil-rights challenges that DHH individuals have faced throughout history and explore ways to foster acceptance, accessibility, and inclusion for the DHH community. Interested first-year students can sign up for a special interest group for Exploring Deaf Studies & Communication Disorders by visiting with their adviser.

The Deaf Studies major complements many other academic programs offered at New Paltz and prepares students to work in a variety of settings in which knowledge of the American Deaf community and skill in American Sign Language are advantages. The Deaf Studies major pairs well with the following majors and/or minors: Communication Disorders, Education/Special Education, Sociology, Psychology, and Political Science. 

What can I do with this major?

• Step toward - Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing 
• Social Worker 
• Activist 
• Speech-Language Pathologist 
• Audiologist 
• Educator/ Special Educator 
• Teacher of American Sign Language 
• Employment Specialist 
• Counselor 
• Mental Health Counselor/Case Worker 
• Journalist 
• Lawyer 

*Additional education or degrees may be necessary for some career options

Contact Us

Victoria St. George, MSEd.
Department of Communication Disorders, HUM 2  
E-mail: deafstudies@newpaltz.edu
Phone: 845-257-3620