RIT/NTID interpreting program earns national accreditation

Rochester Institute of Technology’s National Technical Institute for the Deaf announced its American Sign Language and English interpretation program has achieved accreditation through the Commission on Collegiate Interpreter Education (CCIE). The program now is one of only 16 accredited bachelor’s degree interpreting programs in the United States. 

The four-year accreditation process included an extensive self-study and peer review of the curriculum to ensure it meets the required standards set forth by CCIE. The process also included a site visit, which was conducted virtually. Accreditation lasts 10 years.

Keith Cagle, department chair, said that CCIE accreditation will help enhance student recruitment for the program. “Occasionally, prospective students and parents ask whether the interpreter program is accredited by CCIE. Now, we can say with pride that we are. In addition, the self-study review during the process helped us to take a close look at our program, including its strengths and challenges. Accreditation also is required in order to apply for many grants and foundation funding, which will benefit our students, faculty, and staff.”

“We are honored and privileged to be recognized with this accomplishment,” said Gerry Buckley, NTID president and RIT vice president and dean. “We are thankful to all the students, mentors, faculty, alumni, and our Deaf and interpreting community members who have supported our program.”