MA Translation
London
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
This MA program offers an interdisciplinary approach, combining rigorous academic training with practical translation experience. Students are prepared for careers as professional translators, language specialists, or cultural mediators, and the program also serves as a foundation for further research at the MPhil or PhD level. The curriculum is designed to enhance methodological and practical skills, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for the demands of the professional market.
Curriculum: The curriculum includes core modules on translation theory and methodology, providing students with a solid foundation in the discipline. Students can work with a range of languages, including Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Persian, Swahili, and Turkish, allowing for specialization in specific linguistic and cultural contexts. The program also offers access to extensive resources for the study and practice of translation, including the SOAS Library and nearby institutions such as the University of London Library, the UCL Library, and the British Library.
Research Focus: SOAS's Centre for Translation Studies (CTS) plays a pivotal role in the program, offering a range of research seminars and fostering a vibrant academic community. Students are encouraged to engage in original research, contributing to the field of translation studies and benefiting from the expertise of highly qualified teachers and researchers at SOAS.
Industry Engagement: The program emphasizes practical experience, with opportunities for students to participate in translation work and student enterprise activities. Access to institutions such as the BBC World Service provides additional avenues for real-world application of translation skills. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in various sectors, including publishing, media, international organizations, and cultural consultancy.
Global Perspective: SOAS's diverse and multinational community offers a unique environment for studying translation. The program's focus on Asian, African, and Middle Eastern languages and cultures ensures that students develop a truly global perspective, essential for navigating the complexities of translation in an interconnected world.
Location
London
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 25320
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 95.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 65.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
SOAS University of London offers a variety of scholarships to support international students pursuing postgraduate studies. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence and provide financial assistance to students from diverse backgrounds.
SOAS International Scholarships: SOAS University of London offers a range of scholarships specifically designed for international students. These scholarships aim to support students from various regions and backgrounds who are looking to study at the institution. Scholarships vary by program and are awarded based on merit or financial need.
Postgraduate Scholarships: SOAS provides several postgraduate scholarships for international students, including the prestigious SOAS Postgraduate Scholarships. These are awarded based on academic merit and cover partial or full tuition fees. Some specific awards are dedicated to students from particular regions, such as Africa, Asia, or the Middle East, to encourage diverse participation in postgraduate programs.
Regional Scholarships: SOAS University of London provides scholarships for students from specific regions, including the Commonwealth, Africa, Asia, and Latin America. These scholarships are aimed at increasing access to higher education for students from regions with traditionally lower rates of study abroad participation. Some of the notable scholarships include the SOAS Africa Scholarship and the SOAS South Asia Scholarship.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Certain scholarships are tailored to international students from specific countries. For example, SOAS offers scholarships for students from countries like India, China, Nigeria, and others. These scholarships typically cover a portion of tuition fees and may also include additional benefits like travel allowances or accommodation assistance.
External Funding Opportunities: In addition to the internal scholarships offered by SOAS, international students are encouraged to explore external funding sources. The UK government, private organizations, and international agencies often provide scholarships and grants for students pursuing studies in the UK. SOAS offers guidance and resources to help students find external funding options and apply for them.
SOAS Excellence Awards: The SOAS Excellence Awards are designed to support exceptionally talented international students. These awards are often given to those students who have demonstrated outstanding academic potential in their field of study. The Excellence Awards provide significant financial assistance and are available to both undergraduate and postgraduate students.
Graduates of the MA Translation program at SOAS University of London are well-equipped for a variety of career paths that leverage their advanced linguistic skills, cultural insights, and theoretical knowledge. The program's comprehensive curriculum and emphasis on Asian and African languages position alumni for roles in both traditional and emerging sectors.
Professional Translation and Language Services: Many graduates pursue careers as professional translators or interpreters, working in sectors such as publishing, legal services, healthcare, and international organizations. Their expertise in languages like Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Persian, Swahili, and Turkish, combined with cultural proficiency, makes them valuable assets in multilingual environments. Additionally, opportunities exist in subtitling, localization, and transcreation for media and entertainment industries.
Cultural Mediation and Consultancy: The program's focus on cultural mediation prepares graduates for roles as cultural consultants or mediators, facilitating cross-cultural communication in diplomatic services, multinational corporations, and non-governmental organizations. Their ability to navigate complex cultural contexts is essential for fostering international collaboration and understanding.
Academic and Research Opportunities: For those inclined towards academia, the MA Translation serves as a stepping stone to further research, including MPhil or PhD programs. Graduates may engage in scholarly work within translation studies, linguistics, or area studies, contributing to academic discourse and teaching in higher education institutions.
Media and Publishing: Graduates often find opportunities in media and publishing, utilizing their translation skills to adapt content for diverse audiences. Roles may include editorial positions, content creation, and translation for news outlets, publishing houses, and digital platforms.
International Organizations and NGOs: The global perspective and language expertise gained from the program are highly valued by international organizations and NGOs. Graduates may work in roles that require precise communication across languages and cultures, such as program coordination, advocacy, and policy development.
