UMD to Launch New American Sign Language Minor

The University of Maryland College of Education will offer a new minor in American Sign Language (ASL) in Spring 2026.

Through the 15-credit minor, students will develop intermediate skills in ASL and an in-depth understanding of Deaf culture and history. In addition to taking four required core classes focused on building sign language proficiency and cultural knowledge, students will also pursue one elective course in linguistics, education, or hearing and speech sciences. 

Coursework will highlight respectful interactions, differences in dialects and signing styles, and the importance of accessibility and advocacy. Students will also complete a capstone project that includes eight hours of immersive ASL experiences. The minor is open to UMD students from any major.

“With the ASL minor, we hope students will develop meaningful connections with the Deaf community and cultivate authentic perspectives on Deaf culture and identity,” said Michael Dunham, lecturer and program director. “The goal is to broaden minds, foster a vibrant signing community within UMD, value language diversity and build bridges for genuine exchanges between Deaf and hearing communities.”

The Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia area is home to one of the largest Deaf communities in the nation. The ASL minor will emphasize engaging with primary signers from a variety of backgrounds and connecting to the region’s rich Deaf culture through immersive community experiences. The minor expands UMD’s ASL course offerings and availability for the first time since 1989, in response to student interest. Admission to the minor will be open on a rolling basis until 20 students are admitted to the inaugural cohort.

The minor’s coursework and community experiences are supported by a $17,300 grant from the university’s Do Good Campus Fund.

Watch a video about the ASL minor.