Program Overview

Introduction to British Sign Language

The British Sign Language (BSL) program is designed to introduce students to the language and culture of the Deaf community. Since 2003, BSL has been recognized as an official language by the UK government, with an estimated 151,000 users in the UK.

Program Overview

The program offers a range of modules, from beginner to lower-intermediate levels, which provide students with a comprehensive understanding of BSL and its communicative use in everyday situations.

Module Descriptions

• LA1PB1-IWLP British Sign Language 1: This beginner's module introduces students to BSL, focusing on its communicative use in familiar, everyday situations. Students will acquire a basic understanding of BSL and the ability to communicate at a survival level through signing.
• LA1PB2-IWLP British Sign Language 2: This post-beginner module builds on the basic knowledge of BSL acquired in LA1PB1 or equivalent. Students will increase their ability to communicate in BSL by learning linguistic analysis of the grammatical components of BSL and exploring "Deafhood," the history of oppression of Deaf people and its impact on their culture.
• LA1PB3-IWLP British Sign Language 3: This lower-intermediate module is designed for students with some previous knowledge of BSL, such as that acquired by attending LA1PB2 or equivalent. Students will engage with a range of socially relevant and interesting topics linked to the Deaf community, including education, health, and technology, and complete a short research project.

Placement Test

Students with prior knowledge of BSL must complete a placement test to determine their appropriate level of study. The placement test is available from April to October.

Application and Enrollment

New students who wish to take a Languages for All module for credit must contact the module selection team, providing their module code and title. Existing students can sign up via RISIS module selection. Non-credit students must submit a non-credit application form, which is available from September.

Related Departments

The BSL program is associated with the following departments:

• Languages and Cultures
• English Language and Linguistics