- Paris and Lyon, France
* being updated for 2026* This immersive study abroad program in France offers students a unique opportunity to explore the historical connections between American Sign Language (ASL) and French Sign Language (LSF). Through visits to renowned deaf institutions, museums, and cultural sites, students will delve into the origins of ASL while experiencing France's deaf community. Highlights include tours of historic landmarks like the Institut National de Jeunes Sourds in Paris and interactive LSF classes in Toulouse, led by native signers. Students will engage with local deaf culture by dining at deaf-owned restaurants, attending deaf clubs, and participating in daily activities with deaf families. This program offers a unique blend of hands-on learning and cultural immersion that will leave students with lasting insight into the global deaf community.
Sponsored by College of Liberal Arts
Course(s)
-
ASL 350
- Exploring the History of American and French Sign Languages
and
L A 119 - International Learning Seminar (Spring)
Academic Information
Courses count as in-residence hours for UT-Austin students and grades are factored into the official UT-Austin GPA.
Faculty
Assistant Professor Rebecca Le Borgne teaches American Sign Language (ASL) Levels 1-3. Before joining University of Texas, she lived in two countries, where she taught ASL, Deaf history and worked with Deaf children.
Language(s) of Instruction
English
Eligibility
- Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance
- Completed ASL 610D at time of participation
- UT enrollment during the spring semester preceding the program
- Good academic standing
Service Learning/Internship
- Service Learning - No
- Internship - No
Open To
Students from all colleges and schools
Program Cost
* program cost may increase for 2026* Program fee has been set at $7700 and includes shared room; welcome and farewell meals, excursions and entrance fees. Students must pay: UT-Austin summer tuition, airfare, personal items, health insurance, independent travel expenses. Multiple scholarships available.
Dates:
- Program: May 11, 2026 to May 31, 2026
- Instructional: May 11, 2026 to May 29, 2026
- Final Deadline: November 1, 2025
Application Code
355165
Program Coordinator
Farrah Burrell
Additional Resources
Information Session
Scholarships
Financial Aid
Frequently Asked Questions
Events Calendar
Next Step
Final application deadline for 2026 program is November 1, 2025. Please watch the Info Session to learn important details about the program and application process. For questions contact program coordinator Farrah Burrell at farrah.burrell@austin.utexas.edu. Scholarship applications are due by November 1,2025.