Many aspiring signers often wonder, “How Long Does It Take To Learn American Sign Language?” It’s a natural question when embarking on learning any new language. Understanding the timeline for ASL proficiency involves looking at recognized language learning frameworks and your personal learning goals. Becoming truly fluent in ASL is a journey that typically extends over several years, often 8 years or more. This duration is based on achieving a high level of proficiency, comparable to fluency in spoken languages.
The American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) provides a helpful framework for understanding language proficiency. This framework is visualized as a pyramid, illustrating the progression of skills and knowledge in language learning. At the base is the Novice level, the starting point for learners. Ascending through Intermediate and Advanced levels, learners eventually reach the Superior level at the peak of proficiency.
ACTFL proficiency pyramid for American Sign Language learners, illustrating progression from novice to superior levels.
Within this pyramid, each level—Novice, Intermediate, and Advanced—is further divided into low, mid, and high sub-levels. Typically, ASL levels 1 through 3 are considered Novice. Completing ASL 3 signifies you are a novice signer, possessing basic conversational skills and comprehension. However, this is just the beginning.
Reaching higher proficiency levels is essential for specific career paths. If you aspire to become a sign language interpreter, hold a paid academic ASL teaching position, or teach Deaf and hard of hearing students, training beyond the novice level is crucial. These professions demand advanced ASL skills and a deep understanding of Deaf culture and linguistics.
For those aiming to become professional sign language interpreters, pursuing a 4-year undergraduate degree in areas like Interpreting Studies (IS), Interpreting Training Program (ITP), or Interpreting Preparation Program (IPP) is highly recommended. These programs provide comprehensive training in interpretation theory, practice, and ethical considerations.
If your goal is to become an ASL teacher or instructor, consider a graduate degree focused on teaching ASL. Universities like the University of Northern Colorado (with their Teaching ASL (TASL) Master’s degree) and Gallaudet University (offering a Master’s in Sign Language Education Degree – MASLED) offer specialized programs. These degrees equip educators with the pedagogical skills and in-depth ASL knowledge needed to effectively teach ASL to others.
For individuals passionate about educating Deaf and hard of hearing children, a graduate degree in Special Education with a focus on Deaf and Hard of Hearing is the appropriate path. Programs like the Master’s degree in Special Education: Deaf and Hard of Hearing Concentration at the University of Northern Colorado provide the specialized training required to excel in this field.
In conclusion, while you can achieve basic conversational ASL skills relatively quickly, reaching fluency and professional proficiency is a long-term commitment. The answer to “how long does it take to learn american sign language?” depends significantly on your goals and the level of expertise you wish to attain. Whether you aim for casual conversation or a professional career in ASL, understanding the proficiency levels and dedicating consistent effort are key to your success in learning this beautiful and vital language.
