Hailey
STILLWATER, Okla. – Over 1,200 supporters have signed a petition to protect the American Sign Language (ASL) degree program at Oklahoma State University (OSU) after recent changes caused concern among students and advocates.
The petition was launched by Jordan Landers, a current ASL major, following adjustments that moved some ASL courses to independent study status due to low enrollment.
Concerns Sparked by Course Format Changes
Landers emphasized the importance of the program in a recent interview:
“I love OSU and I love the fact that they offer such a wonderful, niche, and specific major. It makes them extremely special.”
She explained that the petition aims to demonstrate the value of the ASL interpreting degree, particularly given that OSU is the only university in Oklahoma to offer a full four-year ASL interpreting program.
Fear of Future Cuts Raises Alarm Among Supporters
Many petition signers fear that the move to independent studies could lead to future program cuts, jeopardizing an essential resource for Oklahoma’s deaf and hard-of-hearing communities.
One signer, who is deaf, wrote:
“We need more interpreters, educators, police, and doctors who know ASL. This program is one of the most important for our state.”
OSU Responds: No Plans to Cut the Program
In a statement to FOX23, OSU confirmed there are no plans to eliminate the ASL program, adding that the university is working on alternatives to ensure students can continue progressing toward graduation.
“We are finalizing alternatives for these students. None will be prevented from graduating on time,” the university said. “Students will receive additional information in the coming weeks.”
The course modifications stem from a state policy requiring a 12:1 student-to-teacher ratio for a class to remain active. This standard is in place to ensure cost-efficiency and is not unique to OSU.
Both Students and OSU Aim to Grow Enrollment
Although the ASL interpreting program is just two years old, it fills a critical gap in Oklahoma’s education system.
A bachelor’s degree is required to become a professional sign language interpreter, making OSU’s program invaluable to the state.
Both OSU officials and student advocates agree on one thing: boosting enrollment is key to ensuring the program’s long-term success.
“ASL interpreting matches OSU’s land-grant mission to serve the community and the state,” Landers said. “We just want to ensure it gets the attention and support it deserves.”
The growing petition to save OSU’s ASL degree track reflects strong community and student support for a program that plays a crucial role in advancing accessibility and inclusion in Oklahoma.
With no immediate threat of cancellation, efforts are now focused on raising awareness and attracting more students to sustain this vital offering.