British Sign Language

Why British Sign Language?

Sign Language is a visual means of communicating using gestures, facial expression, and body language. Sign Language is used mainly by people who are Deaf or have hearing impairments.

Within Britain, the most common form of Sign Language is called British Sign Language (BSL). BSL has its own grammatical structure and syntax. As a language, it is not dependent nor is it strongly related to spoken English. BSL is the preferred language of around 145,000 people within the UK (2011).

About the modules

Our British Sign Language modules are open to all students (for credits or not), members of staff, and members of the public.

Available on a semester basis (11-12 weeks), the modules aim to develop language competence and cultural knowledge for professional and recreational purposes through small group weekly classes and guided independent learning.

Levels

If you are unsure about your level, let us know when applying and we will invite you for a short placement interview to understand your previous experience and current needs.

Beginner

• Autumn: MLT901 British Sign Language Beginner 1
• Spring:
  • MLT901 British Sign Language Beginner 1 (Spring) (Repeat of Autumn module)
  • MLT902 British Sign Language Beginner 2 (Continuation of MLT901)

Post-beginner

• Autumn: MLT220 British Sign Language Post-beginner 1
• Spring: MLT229 British Sign Language Post-beginner 2 

Apply now

Once you have decided on the appropriate level for you, apply using the following form. If the applications are not currently open, you will be directed to register your interest instead.

British Sign Language application form