FAQ: Bachelor’s Degree Program Interpreting: Austrian Sign Language – German
Would you like to learn more about the Bachelor’s Program in Interpreting: Austrian Sign Language – German? Here you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions about the curriculum, admission requirements, part-time study options, internships, and career opportunities. If your question isn’t listed here, we’d be happy to assist you personally.
Do I need prior knowledge of Austrian Sign Language?
No. You don't need any prior knowledge to enroll in the Program. What's important is your interest in languages, communication, and cultures, as well as your willingness to learn a new language intensively.
How does the application process work?
The application process consists of an online application and an online group assessment center. After we review your application materials, you will receive an invitation to the assessment center, where we’d like to get to know you. This is explicitly not a knowledge test.
What can I expect at the assessment center?
Before the appointment, you’ll receive a newspaper article to help you prepare. At the assessment center, you’ll introduce yourself and discuss the topic with the other candidates. The focus is on your motivation and your communication and critical thinking skills – not your subject matter expertise.
Do I need to do anything special to prepare?
Yes. Read the article we sent you carefully and think about your thoughts on it. The assessment center does not test your specialized knowledge.
What requirements do I need to meet?
Admission to the Program requires a general university entrance qualification or an equivalent qualification, such as a university entrance exam or a relevant professional qualification. You must also have German language proficiency at the C1 level and English language proficiency at the B2 level.
What characteristics should I possess?
If you’re interested in languages, communication, and different cultures, and enjoy working with people, you’re well-suited for this field. Openness, empathy, resilience, and the ability to reflect will also help you in your future career.
What role does the Deaf Community play in the Program?
Direct interaction with deaf experts is an important part of the Program. This allows you to learn Austrian Sign Language in an authentic context and develop an understanding of Deaf Culture and the lives of deaf people.
What kind of course content can I expect during my studies?
The Program combines the study of Austrian Sign Language with interpreting techniques, linguistics, translation, and the fundamentals of cultural studies and deaf studies. The curriculum is supplemented by courses in sociology, education, ethics, and law.
Will I also learn video interpreting?
Yes. The Program teaches modern interpreting techniques and places a special emphasis on video-based interpreting. This prepares you for a variety of work settings and forms of digital communication.
Where do sign language interpreters work?
Possible applications include, among others, the healthcare sector, educational institutions, government agencies, the courts, conferences, and community interpreting.
Can I continue my studies after earning my Bachelor's Degree?
Yes. Upon successfully completing your Bachelor's Degree, you will meet the requirements for a Master's Program.
How practical is the Program?
From the very beginning, you’ll combine language acquisition with practical exercises and a variety of interpreting situations. Close collaboration with Deaf experts will help you continuously develop your language and professional skills.
Will I only be working with deaf people later on?
No. As a sign language interpreter, you act as a bridge between deaf and hearing people. You work wherever barrier-free communication between the two language communities is needed.
What career opportunities does my degree offer?
The demand for qualified sign language interpreters is growing. With your Degree, you’ll have a wide range of career opportunities in various sectors of society – from healthcare and education to the justice system, government agencies, and conferences.