MSc Counselling and Psychotherapy
The MSc Counselling and Psychotherapy program at London Metropolitan University is desi...
MA in Interpreting
Holloway
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MA in Interpreting at London Metropolitan University is designed for students who wish to pursue a professional career in interpretation, focusing on both the theoretical and practical aspects of the field. This program equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to work in a range of interpreting settings, including conference, community, legal, and business environments. The program is suitable for both bilingual students looking to specialize in interpreting and those aiming to enhance their linguistic skills and cultural competency for professional practice. Students are trained in both consecutive and simultaneous interpreting, with an emphasis on real-world application, preparing them for high-level interpreting roles in the global workforce. Through a blend of intensive practical training and theoretical study, graduates are well-prepared to work as interpreters in a variety of professional settings, facilitating communication across language barriers.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the MA in Interpreting at London Metropolitan University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of interpreting theory and practice. Key modules include Introduction to Interpreting, Consecutive Interpreting, Simultaneous Interpreting, Research Methodology for Interpreting, and Interpreting for Specialised Contexts such as legal, healthcare, and business. Students also study Linguistic and Cultural Mediation, which helps develop an understanding of how to navigate cultural nuances in interpreting. In addition to practical interpreting skills, the program includes training on ethical considerations in interpreting, as well as strategies for managing the pressure of real-time interpretation. The curriculum is structured to provide both individual and collaborative learning experiences, allowing students to develop their skills through practical exercises, role-playing, and interpreting in various simulated settings. The program also includes opportunities for independent research in the field of interpreting.
Research Focus: The research focus of the MA in Interpreting program is centered around enhancing understanding of the interpretative process, linguistic mediation, and the role of the interpreter in various professional contexts. Students are encouraged to explore research topics such as interpreting strategies, interpreter training, cultural mediation, and technology in interpreting. The program aims to foster a critical understanding of the complexities involved in interpreting, from cognitive and linguistic processes to the ethical and professional challenges faced by interpreters. Research is a central element of the program, and students are supported in developing their own research projects, often leading to the production of a dissertation or research-based project that contributes to the field of interpreting.
Industry Engagement: London Metropolitan University places a strong emphasis on practical industry engagement in the MA in Interpreting program. Students benefit from exposure to real-world interpreting scenarios through placements, internships, and collaborations with industry partners. The university has strong links with various sectors, including legal services, healthcare, international organizations, and businesses, providing students with opportunities to engage in live interpreting tasks. This interaction with industry professionals ensures that students gain valuable insights into the day-to-day demands and expectations of working interpreters. Additionally, students have access to interpreting technologies and software commonly used in the field, enhancing their technical skills. The program also invites guest speakers and organizes workshops with professionals from the interpreting industry, giving students the chance to network, learn about current trends, and enhance their employability.
Global Perspective: The MA in Interpreting program at London Metropolitan University incorporates a global perspective, acknowledging the diverse linguistic and cultural contexts in which interpreters work. Students are taught to consider the challenges of interpreting in various international settings, including diplomatic, humanitarian, and global business contexts. The curriculum is designed to prepare graduates for the global demand for interpreters, particularly in multilingual environments. The program encourages students to engage with global issues related to interpreting, such as the role of technology in language mediation, the impact of globalization on communication, and the ethical responsibilities of interpreters in cross-cultural exchanges. This global approach ensures that students are well-prepared to work as interpreters in international organizations, multinational corporations, and global events.
Location
Holloway
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 18700
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 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 72.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
London Metropolitan University offers a variety of scholarships and financial support options designed to assist international students with the cost of tuition fees and living expenses while studying in the UK. These scholarships aim to support talented students, regardless of their financial background, and encourage diversity in the university’s student body.
International Scholarship: London Metropolitan University provides an International Scholarship for non-UK students who are enrolled in full-time undergraduate or postgraduate programs. This scholarship is designed to help reduce the cost of tuition fees and make studying at the university more affordable. The scholarship amount varies depending on the program and student eligibility, typically covering a partial reduction of tuition fees. The scholarship is awarded based on academic merit, and students are assessed upon application for the program.
Postgraduate International Scholarships: International students applying for postgraduate courses at London Metropolitan University may be eligible for specific Postgraduate International Scholarships. These scholarships are aimed at high-achieving students and are available for a range of master’s degree programs. The scholarships provide a discount on tuition fees for international students and are typically awarded based on the applicant’s academic performance, relevant qualifications, and professional experience.
Regional Scholarships: To encourage students from diverse regions to study at London Metropolitan University, the university offers Regional Scholarships. These scholarships are designed to attract students from specific countries or regions, including Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. The scholarships are often based on merit and financial need and offer varying amounts of financial assistance to help cover the costs of tuition fees.
Alumni Scholarships: For international students who are graduates of partner institutions, the Alumni Scholarship offers financial support for those seeking to pursue postgraduate studies at London Metropolitan University. This scholarship is typically offered as a fee reduction for alumni who wish to continue their education at the university. The goal of this scholarship is to foster long-term relationships between the university and its international partners while providing continued academic opportunities for its alumni.
External Scholarships and Financial Aid: In addition to university-specific scholarships, international students can explore external scholarships offered by organizations, government bodies, and foundations. Some notable external scholarships include those offered by the British Council, Chevening Scholarships, and Commonwealth Scholarships, which provide significant funding to international students pursuing higher education in the UK. London Metropolitan University encourages its international students to apply for these prestigious scholarships in addition to institutional funding opportunities.
Graduating with an MA in Interpreting from London Metropolitan University opens up a wide array of career opportunities across various sectors where linguistic mediation is essential. The comprehensive training provided by the program, which includes practical and theoretical components, ensures that graduates are well-equipped to pursue a range of interpreting careers.
Conference Interpreter: Conference interpreters facilitate communication at international conferences, meetings, and seminars, translating speeches in real-time. This role requires proficiency in simultaneous interpreting, where the interpreter translates speech almost instantaneously as it is spoken. Graduates who specialize in conference interpreting may work at international events, UN conferences, or global summits, offering interpreting services for delegates from various countries. This role requires an in-depth understanding of political, economic, and social issues to accurately convey complex topics.
Court and Legal Interpreter: Legal interpreters work within the judicial system, translating for individuals who do not speak the language of the court or legal proceedings. This career option is vital for ensuring access to justice for non-native speakers in legal contexts. Court interpreters are required to provide precise and accurate translations in both criminal and civil cases. Graduates interested in this field will undergo additional training on legal terminology and court protocols to ensure their interpretations meet the legal standards.
Medical Interpreter: Medical interpreters play a crucial role in healthcare settings by facilitating communication between healthcare professionals and patients who speak different languages. In this field, interpreters work in hospitals, clinics, and private medical practices, ensuring that patients understand medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment options. Graduates can specialize in medical interpreting and undergo further training in medical terminology, privacy laws, and patient rights. This role demands not only linguistic proficiency but also cultural sensitivity to ensure patient safety and clarity in medical settings.
Community Interpreter: Community interpreters work in non-legal settings such as schools, social services, public health, and government agencies. They facilitate communication between service providers and individuals who speak a different language, assisting with appointments, social services, and educational settings. This career option requires a deep understanding of community issues and the ability to interpret in sensitive contexts where cultural nuances play an important role in communication. Graduates may work with refugee groups, immigrants, and marginalized communities in a wide range of social services.
Business Interpreter: Business interpreters facilitate communication between individuals or companies from different linguistic and cultural backgrounds in corporate settings. They play a key role in international business meetings, negotiations, conferences, and trade fairs. Graduates interested in this area can specialize in interpreting for global companies, multinational corporations, and financial institutions. Knowledge of business terminology, international trade, and cultural nuances is essential in this career path. Business interpreters often work with executives, clients, and suppliers from different countries, enabling smooth communication in the global marketplace.
Freelance Interpreter: Many graduates of the MA in Interpreting choose to work as freelancers, providing interpreting services on a contractual basis. Freelancers have the flexibility to work in various fields, such as conference interpreting, legal interpreting, medical interpreting, and more. As a freelance interpreter, individuals manage their own schedules, client base, and rates. This career option requires self-motivation, excellent networking skills, and the ability to work across different sectors. Freelancers may be hired by agencies or directly by clients, providing services at events, meetings, and other settings.
Interpreter Trainer or Educator: Graduates with a passion for education and training can become interpreters themselves, teaching future interpreters at universities, language schools, or training institutes. As an interpreter educator, they would design curricula, teach interpreting techniques, and mentor students in language skills, interpretation ethics, and field-specific knowledge. Some professionals also conduct workshops or offer private tutoring for aspiring interpreters. Academic roles may require further study and research in interpreting or related fields, as well as industry experience.
Translation Project Manager: Translation project managers oversee and coordinate interpretation and translation projects. They work closely with teams of translators and interpreters to ensure that projects are completed efficiently and accurately, meeting deadlines and client specifications. A project manager needs strong organizational and communication skills and may oversee large projects such as translating and interpreting materials for multinational conferences, corporate reports, or government documents.
International Organization Interpreter: Many graduates of the MA in Interpreting find employment with international organizations such as the United Nations, the European Union, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Interpreters in these organizations provide interpretation for high-level discussions on global issues such as peace negotiations, humanitarian efforts, and international treaties. Working in international organizations offers interpreters the opportunity to engage with pressing global issues and contribute to diplomatic and humanitarian work.
Tourism and Hospitality Interpreter: Graduates interested in the tourism and hospitality industries can work as interpreters for tourists, tour guides, or hotels. They assist non-native speakers with translation services during their travels, helping them understand local customs, navigate services, and enjoy their travel experience. This career offers a blend of language skills and cultural mediation, with opportunities in both inbound and outbound tourism.
Media and Broadcast Interpreter: Interpreters can also pursue careers in media and broadcasting, providing interpretation services for television networks, radio stations, or online media platforms. These professionals often provide live translation for news broadcasts, interviews, and international events, such as sports competitions and international news programs. The ability to interpret quickly and accurately in real-time is essential in this field.
Sign Language Interpreter: For those interested in specializing in sign language, graduates may choose to work as sign language interpreters. This role requires specific training in sign languages and is vital for bridging communication gaps between the deaf and hearing communities. Sign language interpreters work in educational, legal, medical, and government settings, ensuring accessibility for the deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals in various public and private sectors.
