Postgraduate
Languages
MSc/PGDip Translation & Computer-Assisted Translation Tools

MSc/PGDip Translation & Computer-Assisted Translation Tools

The Department of Languages and Intercultural Studies (LINCS) has a long history of higher education in Translating, Interpreting and European Studies. The Department was created in 1970 and since 1994 we have offered a postgraduate programme in translating and interpreting in an attempt to help meet the growing need for professionally trained translators and interpreters.

Aims and objectives of the course

The MSc/PGDip course in Translation & Computer-Assisted Translation Tools is designed to provide students with the training required to work as a professional translator in a variety of professional contexts. It also provides a sound basis for those students wishing to undertake further research training (e.g. PhD study). On completion of the course, students will have achieved:

mastery of the skills and techniques of translating to professional standards;
critical understanding of translation and interpreting studies theories and concepts, and their application to the processes involved in translating and interpreting;
knowledge and understanding of post-war political and institutional developments on a European and international level ;
critical understanding of, and the ability to use, a range of computer-assisted translation tools.

Structure of the course

The taught part of the course lasts 9 months (September to June) and involves study of 8 modules, covering the core activities of translation and translation technologies, and complementary theoretical areas, namely translation and interpreting studies and post-war political and institutional developments on an international level. Students either work in both directions between English and one other language, from French, German, and Spanish (Strand A), or into English from two of the above languages (Strand B). In addition, students take two optional modules, one in each semester. Students can choose from a range of available modules, including language electives (e.g. ab initio modules in Arabic or Chinese), and specialized modules (e.g. localisation and technical writing). Following successful completion of the taught part of the course, students may proceed to the MSc dissertation which can be submitted in either September or December.

Learning and teaching methods

Students on the course encounter various approaches to learning and teaching, including lectures, tutorials, seminars, practical laboratory work, and individual and group projects. The University’s Virtual Learning Environment (Vision), which can be accessed from any computer on- or off-campus, is also used to support teaching and learning.

Facilities in the Department

The Department of Languages and Intercultural Studies benefits from excellent facilities for teaching interpreting and translation and for student self-study. These include state-of-the-art interpreting and language laboratories, a bank of digital resources for interpreting, and a range of Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT) software packages. Students are able to access the Henry Prais Building, which houses these facilities, 7 days a week between 8.30am and 11pm.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the course have gained employment as translators and/or interpreters in a range of organisations, including translation departments of major European and multinational companies, translation agencies, localisation agencies, government departments in the UK and abroad, institutions of the European Union, and international organisations such as the UN. A significant number are also working successfully as freelance translators and interpreters.

Funding Opportunities

A number of organisations operate awards schemes to which prospective students may apply. These include SAAS, AHRC, and SCIC. Eligibility criteria vary from one organisation to another. In addition, a number of scholarships are awarded each year by the School of Management & Languages.