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Fachhochschule Magdeburg-Stendal
Bachelor German Social Sciences

Sign Language Interpreting

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

About the Program

The Sign Language Interpreting programme prepares students by means of an academically founded, practice-oriented education to not only transport content between spoken or written German and German Sign Language (DGS). Further essential parts of professional interpreting is to have a high knowledge of linguistics and cultural backgrounds as well as having various strategies to influence interaction in a way that facilitates successful communication between the communities who use these languages, including D/deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals. The program includes: acquisition and development of competence in German Sign Language (in theory and in practice), subjects and issues concerning the deaf community and deaf culture (deaf studies), preparation for professional practice in sign language interpreting (strategies, theory and critical reflection), additional courses concerning interpreting methods, strategies and further languages (or communication systems) as well as courses in other departments to get used to an interdisciplinary approach. Students complete various internships throughout the program, including a four-week orientation placement, a work shadowing internship, a five-week interpreting internship, and a 15-week practical semester.
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The Sign Language Interpreting programme prepares students by means of an academically founded, practice-oriented education to not only transport content between spoken or written German and German Sign Language (DGS). Further essential parts of professional interpreting is to have a high knowledge of linguistics and cultural backgrounds as well as having various strategies to influence interaction in a way that facilitates successful communication between the communities who use these languages, including D/deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals. The program includes: acquisition and development of competence in German Sign Language (in theory and in practice), subjects and issues concerning the deaf community and deaf culture (deaf studies), preparation for professional practice in sign language interpreting (strategies, theory and critical reflection), additional courses concerning interpreting methods, strategies and further languages (or communication systems) as well as courses in other departments to get used to an interdisciplinary approach. Students complete various internships throughout the program, including a four-week orientation placement, a work shadowing internship, a five-week interpreting internship, and a 15-week practical semester.

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Subjects / Topic Areas

Sign Language Interpreting

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Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Sign Language Interpreting at Fachhochschule Magdeburg-Stendal

Is Sign Language Interpreting at Fachhochschule Magdeburg-Stendal taught in German or English?

This Bachelor programme is taught in German. Make sure to check the language requirements (e.g. TestDaF, DSH, IELTS or TOEFL) before applying.

How much does the Sign Language Interpreting programme cost?

No tuition fee (only semester contribution). International students should also budget around 800–1000 EUR/month for living costs in Germany.

What are the admission requirements for Sign Language Interpreting at Fachhochschule Magdeburg-Stendal?

Typical requirements include: a recognised secondary/undergraduate degree, proof of language proficiency (German), and (for non-EU applicants) a uni-assist application plus financial proof (Sperrkonto ~11.904 EUR/year).

When is the application deadline?

Application deadlines vary: winter semester usually closes on 15 July, summer semester on 15 January. Always confirm the exact deadline on the official university website.

Can I work in Germany while studying Sign Language Interpreting?

Yes. International students may work up to 140 full days / 280 half days per year without additional permission. After graduation you can apply for an 18-month job-seeker permit.

How do I apply to Fachhochschule Magdeburg-Stendal — directly or via uni-assist?

Most German universities accept international applications through uni-assist for document verification. Some unis accept direct applications — check the programme page on the official site.

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