MA (Hons) Modern Languages (Interpreting and Translating) German/Spanish

Overview

MA (Hons) Languages (Interpreting and Translating) is a clear example of our career-focused approach to language studies.

Combining the two areas of language studies for which Heriot-Watt University is best known, this degree allows you to develop highly employable interpreting and translating skills to a professional standard.

You will study German and Spanish to an advanced level, learning in small class sizes in our unrivalled interpreting and translating teaching facilities. Our facilities include recently refurbished interpreting booths, which are modelled on those used by the United Nations and European Parliament, and computer labs with state-of-the-art Computer Aided Translation tools, as used by professional translators.

In Year 1, if it is necessary, we offer intensive courses to help bring you up to speed in your second non-native language (French or German). This tried and tested approach ensures you will be able to use your interpreting and translating skills in two non-native languages by the time you graduate. Year 2 introduces regular classes on simultaneous interpreting and advances your language skills further.

Year 3 is spent abroad on two exchange placements with our partner institutions. This is a unique opportunity to spend a year living and studying in two different countries, immersed in your chosen languages. In Year 4 you will study advanced interpreting and translating skills and learn about political contexts and organisations.

This degree will prepare you for careers requiring the practical application of advanced language, communication and intercultural skills and it will teach you about the wider professional contexts in which you will use these skills.

For example, you will learn about the unique interpreting approaches required for various professional contexts, such as: health care situations, business situations, legal contexts, or for conferences.

Accreditation

The Department of Languages and Intercultural Studies is a member of the Institute of Translation and Interpreting (ITI).

We are also official higher education partner of the Chartered Institute of Linguists – a professional body that maintains the highest standards for practising interpreters and translators: Chartered Institute of Linguists

In addition, we are founding members of CIUTI, the world’s oldest and most prestigious international association of universities who train interpreters and translators: CIUTI.