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MAY TERM ABROAD: EXPLORING THE HISTORY OF AMERICAN AND FRENCH SIGN LANGUAGES

 

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.

MAY TERM ABROAD: EXPLORING THE HISTORY OF AMERICAN AND FRENCH SIGN LANGUAGES Image

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 Professors James Fazio and Meg Davidson both teach American Sign Language (ASL) Level 1.

Language(s) of Instruction

English

Eligibility

Service Learning/Internship

  • Service Learning - No
  • Internship - No

Housing

Students will be staying in hotels during this program.

Open To

Students from all colleges and schools

Program Cost

* program cost may increase for 2027* Program fee includes shared room; welcome and farewell meals, excursions and entrance fees. Students must pay: UT-Austin tuition, airfare, personal items, health insurance, independent travel expenses. Multiple scholarships available.

Dates:

- May Term
  • Program: May 10, 2027 to May 31, 2027
  • Instructional: May 10, 2027 to May 31, 2027
  • Final Deadline: November 1, 2026

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 2027 program is November 1, 2026. 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 1,2026.

Program information above is subject to change