Terp Program Closed

Seattle Central Community College is ending its program to train sign language interpreters as well as its programs for film and video as well as the publishing arts. It's part of a statewide cutback by community colleges. Administrators blame a high cost for each student, low completion rate, poor track record of job placement. The only similar program in the state is at Spokane Falls Community College, but it focuses on training interpreters for public schools. No new students will be accepted to the interpreting program at Seattle Central, but students already enrolled will be able to complete their degrees and ASL classes will continue. Interpreter training is offered at Western Oregon State in an online program.