The PhD Program in Applied Sign Language Studies at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham is a pioneering interdisciplinary research program designed to advance knowledge, innovation, and inclusive practices in sign language studies, deaf education, communication accessibility, and assistive technologies. The program aims to develop scholars capable of addressing real-world challenges faced by Deaf and Hard of Hearing communities through rigorous research and evidence-based interventions. It combines theoretical foundations in sign linguistics and applied linguistics with practical applications in inclusive education, assistive technology, language policy, and social inclusion. The program focuses primarily but not exclusively on Indian Sign Language.
A unique feature of the program is its strong emphasis on sign language proficiency in research teams, ethical engagement with Deaf communities, and the use of sign language data in research. Students receive advanced training in the linguistics of sign languages and academic communication in signed and written modes, while also undertaking independent projects in applied sign language studies. The scholars of this program will be jointly guided by Prof. Ulrike Zeshan (Adjunct Professor at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Emeritus Professor, University of Lancashire and Academic Advisor, Happy Hands School for the Deaf) and Dr. Prema Nedungadi (Associate Dean of the School of Computing, Director of AmritaCREATE, and UNESCO Chair on Assistive Technologies in Education). Through its research-oriented curriculum, the program seeks to contribute to a more accessible, equitable, and linguistically inclusive society.
