MSc Interpreting and Translating

Heriot-Watt University

This joint master’s programme has been designed to meet the needs of the international interpreting and translation industries. You’ll master the skills and techniques of translating and interpreting to a professional standard and will develop the ideal balance of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. You’ll learn relevant transferable communication skills, including the skills of summarising, abstracting, note-taking for interpreting purposes and public speaking. You’ll be able to communicate effectively and efficiently with other professionals in the field, including colleagues and clients. You’ll master IT skills that are relevant to the work of a professional interpreter and will be able to use specialised databases. Each course will equip you with highly employable expertise and skills in interpretation and translation. You’ll have the opportunity to choose one optional course – including international politics and organisations, intercultural communication in the workplace, translation technologies and subtitling. This will allow you to customise your learning and develop specific interpreting and translating interests. Your interpretation and translation dissertation will allow you to engage in an independent in-depth critical examination of a particular topic that falls within the scope of Translation and Interpreting Studies, which is of interest to you. You’ll benefit from the industry relevance of the programme, which will set you up for life after graduation. Upon completion, you’ll be equipped with the transferable skills and qualities necessary to become a professional interpreter and translator in a variety of professional contexts. Beyond the subject-specific knowledge and skills, you’ll also be given the opportunity to learn and practice transferrable skills such as presentation, communication and ICT skills. You can choose whether to study the programme full-time, part-time or per course. This flexibility allows you to fit your postgraduate studies around your lifestyle. Potential career pathsIn-house translatorProfessional translatorFreelance conference interpreterFounder of translation and interpreting agencyCourtroom interpreter National Health Service interpreting headLocalisation specialistCultural liaison officer