Irish Sign Language and English Interpreting

This programme, the only one of its kind in Ireland, trains you to interpret fluently between Irish Sign Language (ISL) and spoken or written English. You develop advanced signing skills, interpreting theory, Deaf culture and linguistics, and professional ethics. Practical placements with Deaf community organisations and interpreting agencies are central to the course, giving you real-world experience across settings such as healthcare, education, legal proceedings and media. A typical week combines intensive language workshops, supervised interpreting practice sessions, academic seminars and community engagement activities. Some programmes offer study or placement exchange opportunities abroad through Erasmus+. By graduation you will be a skilled professional interpreter equipped to work across public, private and community sectors.

Entry is through the CAO, and points requirements are typically moderate to high given the specialist and competitive nature of the programme. You will need to meet Leaving Certificate minimum entry requirements, usually including English at a specified grade; no prior knowledge of ISL is required for entry, though demonstrated interest in the Deaf community is an advantage. There are no specific Higher Level subject requirements beyond the standard minimum, but strong performance in English, modern languages or subjects requiring communication skills is helpful. Applicants without traditional Leaving Certificate qualifications may apply through QQI/FET Level 5 or Level 6 PLC awards in community, language or health-related programmes, subject to TU Dublin's progression arrangements. Mature applicants aged 23 or over may apply through the mature entry route, and HEAR and DARE access schemes are available for those from socioeconomic disadvantaged backgrounds or with disabilities.

Demand for qualified ISL interpreters in Ireland significantly outstrips supply, meaning graduates generally find employment relatively quickly after completing their degree. The Irish Sign Language Act 2017 created enforceable rights to ISL interpretation across public services, driving ongoing institutional demand. Freelance interpreting is common, offering flexibility but requiring business and self-employment skills, while salaried positions in the public sector and educational settings provide stability. Overall, the employment outlook for graduates of this programme is strong and is expected to remain so as public bodies continue to implement their statutory obligations.