MA Conference Interpreting and Translation Studies

Program Overview

The MA in Conference Interpreting and Translation Studies at Leeds is an advanced program that provides students with comprehensive training in both conference interpreting and translation. It is aimed at those who want to pursue a career as professional interpreters and translators, particularly in international settings such as conferences, diplomatic meetings, and international organizations. The program integrates practical skills development with a strong theoretical foundation, ensuring students can excel in a competitive field. Through exposure to various languages and cultural contexts, students are prepared to interpret and translate across a range of subject areas and media, enhancing their versatility and employability in the global market.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the MA in Conference Interpreting and Translation Studies is meticulously designed to balance theory with practice. The program offers core modules that cover essential skills such as conference interpreting, simultaneous and consecutive interpreting techniques, and translation theory and practice. Students will also gain expertise in the use of translation technology and CAT tools (Computer-Assisted Translation). Additionally, the program offers optional modules allowing students to specialize in areas such as legal translation, financial translation, and audiovisual translation. The curriculum is structured to ensure that students have a well-rounded understanding of the translation and interpreting profession, combining linguistic proficiency with a thorough grasp of intercultural communication, ethics, and professional standards. Students will also complete a dissertation or an interpreting project that allows them to focus on a particular aspect of the field, demonstrating their expertise and critical thinking.

Research Focus: The MA in Conference Interpreting and Translation Studies at the University of Leeds has a strong emphasis on research, particularly in areas related to translation studies and the practice of interpreting. The research focus is interdisciplinary, drawing from linguistics, cultural studies, and communication theory. Students will engage with cutting-edge research on the cognitive processes involved in interpreting, translation strategies, and the use of technology in the translation and interpreting process. Faculty members are active researchers in the field of translation and interpreting, and students benefit from their expertise and mentorship. The program encourages students to develop their own research projects, fostering critical thinking and independent research skills that are crucial in the rapidly evolving field of translation and interpreting.

Industry Engagement: The MA in Conference Interpreting and Translation Studies at Leeds is closely linked with the translation and interpreting industry, offering students numerous opportunities to engage with professionals and gain hands-on experience. The university maintains strong relationships with international organizations, translation agencies, and conference interpreting service providers. Students benefit from these links through opportunities for internships, guest lectures, and professional workshops. This direct industry engagement ensures that students gain real-world insights into the demands and challenges of the profession, allowing them to build their professional networks and enhance their employability. Additionally, the program offers practical training in state-of-the-art interpreting suites, where students practice their skills in realistic environments.

Global Perspective: The University of Leeds takes a global approach to the MA in Conference Interpreting and Translation Studies, preparing students for international careers in interpreting and translation. The program covers both regional and global issues, providing students with the skills to work across a wide range of languages and cultural contexts. The diverse student body, representing different linguistic backgrounds, adds to the global perspective, allowing students to work with peers from all over the world and gain insights into different cultures and communication practices. Moreover, the university’s partnerships with global institutions and its international reputation for excellence in translation and interpreting further enrich the global experience for students.