Course details

New Zealand Sign Language - English Interpreting Major - Bachelor of Arts
NZQF Level 7

About the course

Professional NZSL-English interpreters are in high demand. NZSL-English interpreters are essential to ensure the Deaf community has access to New Zealand legal, educational and health systems. This major prepares you for a career as an NZSL-English interpreter.

You become familiar with the Deaf community and culture, helping you achieve proficiency in New Zealand Sign Language. You develop interpreting skills for a wide range of settings and explore the ethical issues of sign language interpreting.

AUT is the only university where you can become a qualified NZSL-English interpreter. Our dynamic classroom environment encourages student participation at each stage of the learning journey. Our strong relationships with the Deaf community and interpreting professionals mean that you have access to up-to-date information and a range of guest speakers.

A scholarship is available from the Ministry of Education for NZSL interpreting students:

Entry requirements

Minimum entry requirements

If you have New Zealand qualifications

If you have qualifications from another country

International student entry requirements

Useful New Zealand school subjects

All subjects are useful, in particular Art History, Classical Studies, English, Geography, History, Media Studies and other languages.

English language requirements

  • IELTS (Academic) 7.0 overall with 7.0 in Writing and Speaking, and 6.5 in Reading and Listening; or equivalent.

English language requirements

Don’t meet the entry requirements?

Consider starting with:

About the provider


University should feel like a place you belong – and a place that prepares you for what comes next.


In the heart of Auckland, one of the world’s most connected cities, you’ll study alongside people from more than 100 countries across three modern campuses. Different perspectives aren’t an add-on here – they’re part of everyday life.


Learning at AUT is hands-on from day one. You’ll work on real projects, tackle real challenges and learn how your knowledge holds up beyond the classroom. That’s how confidence grows – through experience, not theory alone.


Our programmes are shaped with industry and global partners, so what you’re learning stays relevant and grounded in the real world. It’s also why our graduates are in demand, in New Zealand and around the world.


If you’re looking for a university that backs your ambition, values who you are and helps you turn knowledge into action, you’ll fit in here.


Video

External links