American Sign Language at LMU
American Sign Language (ASL) courses at LMU introduce students to the visual language and
rich cultural heritage of the Deaf community in the United States. Through immersive,
interactive instruction, students develop communication skills in ASL while exploring Deaf
culture, history, and social perspectives. Our program emphasizes both expressive and receptive
language skills, fostering meaningful engagement with one of the most widely used languages
in North America.
ASL courses are open to all students, regardless of previous experience. Whether you're
pursuing a career in education, healthcare, social work, or simply looking to broaden your
cultural and linguistic horizons, ASL offers a unique and valuable perspective on human
communication and connection.
-
American Sign Language 1 (ASL 1)
ASLL 2101
Units: 4This introductory course provides a foundation in American Sign Language (ASL) and an
introduction to Deaf culture. Students will develop fundamental communication skills through
the acquisition of basic ASL vocabulary, grammar, and sentence structures. Instruction
emphasizes interactive, hands-on learning, fostering proficiency through practice, visual-
gestural activities, and cultural immersion. In addition to language development, students will
explore key aspects of Deaf culture, including social norms, history, and community
perspectives. By the end of the course, students will be able to engage in basic conversations in
ASL and demonstrate an understanding of core cultural principles, preparing them for continued
study in ASL and deeper engagement with the Deaf community.American Sign Language 2 (ASL 2)
ASLL 2102
Units: 4This course builds upon the foundational skills acquired in ASL 1, further developing students'
proficiency in American Sign Language (ASL) and deepening their understanding of Deaf culture.
Emphasis is placed on expanding vocabulary, refining grammatical structures, and enhancing
conversational fluency through interactive, student-centered activities. Students will engage in
more complex dialogues, improve their expressive and receptive skills, and explore cultural
topics related to the Deaf community, including historical influences and linguistic diversity. By
the end of the course, students will be able to communicate in a wider range of everyday
situations with increased confidence and accuracy, laying the groundwork for advanced ASL
study.