Course summary

Heriot-Watt University has been teaching languages for a professional purpose for over 50 years. We were ranked as the Number 1 University in Scotland for Modern Languages in the National Student Survey 2018 with the highest overall student satisfaction. We also gained the highest ranking in Scotland for employability from Modern Languages in the Guardian University Rankings 2019. MA (Hons) Modern 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 Chinese and French 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 (Chinese or French). 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 Year 3 is spent abroad, on two Erasmus placements at partner institutions, immersed in your chosen languages and cultures. 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.