British Sign Language

Find out more about studying British Sign Language. Browse our modules to find the right level for you.

Photograph of 3 women communicating via sign language
On

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).


ºù«Ӱҵ 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
Post-beginner

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.

Three students sat at a table looking at a shared laptop screen

International postgraduate taught scholarships

We offer a generous package of financial support for international postgraduate taught students, including scholarships worth £10,000 towards the original tuition fee.

Applications are open for existing offer holders for a postgraduate taught programme starting in September 2025.