Communication Access Services (CAS) can assist in scheduling interpreters and transcribers for UMD students, faculty and staff, campus visitors, and community partners. Below is a description of the type of providers we schedule.
Types of Providers
Sign Language Interpreters
A trained professional who uses sign language to facilitate communication through interpretation and/or transliteration.
They are expected to “voice” what is signed and sign auditory messages. Interpreters are bound by the Code of Conduct through the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID).
Transcribers
A trained professional who provides meaning for meaning speech to text services in real-time through specialized software.
The real-time transcript can be viewed through a web browser on a reader device such as a laptop or tablet. Most CAS transcribers use TypeWell (TW); TW transcribers are bound by the TypeWell’s Transcribers Code of Ethics.
Note: ADS covers the cost of services for ADS students with interpreting and transcription accommodations for any academic requests such as registered courses or advising meetings. All other requests are billed to the sponsoring department or program. All service provider request forms should be submitted at least two (2) weeks in advance.
Service Provider Request Form
ADS registered students with CAS accommodations:
Campus departments and partners:
Process & Costs
Cancellations for all billable service requests must be made three (3) full business days in advance of the event to avoid charges. Cancellations for conferences and multi-date events must be submitted five (5) full business days in advance to avoid being charged in full and are subject to a higher admin fee.
Service provider requests are billed at a 2-hour minimum per provider. However, if an agency is employed to cover the assignment, a 3-hour minimum may apply. Typically 1-2 service providers are assigned to each request. The number of service providers depends on the length and content of the assignment and will be determined by the CAS coordinator. Parking, travel, and prep time may apply.
Departments and campus affiliates with questions related to the cost of services should contact CAS for current cost estimates at ads-cas@umd.edu or 301-314-7625.