Deaf Studies Program
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.
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; Communication Disorders, Education/Special Education, Sociology, Psychology, and Political Science.
A grade of C- or better is required for credit toward the Deaf Studies major.
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., Special Education
Department of Communication Disorders, HUM 2
E-mail: deafstudies@newpaltz.edu
Phone: 845-257-3466
