First Ever International Sign Language Degree Starting in Edinburgh

A Groundbreaking new degree in International Sign Language is launching at Edinburgh's Heriot-Watt university in the 2009/2010 academic year.

The course's programme director, Professor Turner, said in a press release on the university's website, “I’m immensely proud that Heriot-Watt University is focusing on the future, recognising that deaf people are visible internationally as never before, and is putting its energy into such a progressive, scholarly and professionally applicable programme. ith our hugely experienced Finnish and German partners, we have designed a course to harvest and transmit good practice, leading to greater understanding between deaf and hearing people all over Europe”.

British Sign Language is the primary communication for around 90,000 people in the UK. The course prides itself for it's unique structure, making it unlike any other sign language course. It allows students to learn and compare a number of sign languages from other countries. Students will also be able to interpret at major international events including United Nations, European Parliament, academic and professional conferences.