New Zealand Sign Language and Deaf Studies Major - Bachelor of Arts

Language & Literature

A course by

AUT

Gain communication strategies in New Zealand Sign Language and the cultural knowledge needed to work effectively with Deaf clients and colleagues. This major is designed for a wide range of professions that engage with the Deaf community.

$ENQUIRE

Interested in this course? Enquire now for Domestic & International pricing


This course starts anytime

NZQA Level 7 Certification

Study Level

Advanced

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10

In-person study

Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting

City Campus, Auckland

It will take a total of 3 years

Background blur gradient small

Coming Soon: Nexties Explorer

Our AI-powered Explorer is almost ready. Soon, you’ll be able to build a dynamic profile of your skills, goals, and strengths, and get a curated selection of courses just for you.

More details

Unlock these abilities


Star graphic

Fluency in New Zealand Sign Language

Develop receptive and expressive fluency in NZSL, enabling advanced communication with Deaf individuals.

Star graphic

Understanding Deaf Culture

Gain a deep knowledge of the Deaf community, its culture, history, and values.

Star graphic

Application of NZSL in Professional Settings

Apply NZSL and Deaf cultural knowledge in workplaces such as education, health, law, and social services.

What You're Signing Up For

The New Zealand Sign Language and Deaf Studies major within AUT's Bachelor of Arts develops your fluency in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) and your understanding of Deaf culture. The course covers receptive and expressive language skills, cultural and community studies, and the professional and workplace contexts of NZSL use. You'll gain workplace experience and have opportunities for industry placements. The programme is suitable for roles in education, health, law, social services, and any customer-facing field.

Course Content

  • Development of receptive and expressive proficiency in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)
  • Deaf community and culture studies
  • Language acquisition and interpreting profession
  • Intercultural competence
  • Work integrated learning (workplace experience placement)
  • Academic Communication
  • Cultural and societal issues relating to Deaf studies
  • Comparative analysis of English and NZSL
  • Research and inquiry skills

What you need to know first

University Entrance or equivalent

If you lack prior NZSL experience, additional foundation courses may be required

Industry icon

What sort of industry will this job lead to

  • Education

  • Health

  • Legal

  • Social Services

  • Customer Service

Employment opportunities icon

Future employment opportunities might be

  • Teacher

  • Disability service coordinator

  • Social worker

  • Lawyer

  • Health professional

  • Health educator

  • Hospitality professional

  • Event manager

  • Customer-facing professions