Translation in a European Context

Programme outline and modules

Our Masters in Translation Studies in a European Contenxt programme provides an academic qualification for those intending to become (or who already are) professional translators. It is one of only 34 programmes in the European Union which has been chosen to be part of the exclusive European Masters in Translation (EMT) Network. Masters students will also have the opportunity to work towards Chartered Institute of Linguists' certification - highly recognised in the translation sector.

This programme links the development of expertise in advanced translation skills (especially in political and journalistic texts) with theoretical and professional aspects of translation. The programme also encourages the development of an understanding of European integration.

Learning, teaching & assessment

Modules are delivered via a variety of innovative and engaging teaching methods. You will take part in interactive seminars, presentations and group work as well as attending lectures and tutorials. There are also opportunities for individual research.

Assessment is on a credit accumulation basis and by written examination (practical translation modules), oral examination (text analysis module) or extended essay (remaining modules). Successful completion of the taught modules is a precondition for proceeding to a 15,000 word dissertation leading to the MA.

Professional accreditation & certification

European Masters in Translation Network

Our Masters in Translation in a European Context is a member of the European Masters in Translation (EMT) Network, set up by the European Commission. The EMT network is an elite selection of university programmes offering high quality Master's level training for translators.

Chartered Institute of Linguists

As the result of an exciting partnership between Aston University and the Chartered Institute of Linguists Educational Trust (IoLET), translation students at Aston are offered the chance to gain a professional, vocational qualification to complement and strengthen their Aston academic qualification. Subject to excellent performance in the Practical Translation module, students can receive a certification from the Institute and, potentially, exemption from paper 1 of the Diploma in Translation examination. With this joint certification, graduates will have better chances entering a competitive job market.

Career opportunities

Our graduates have gone on to work as translators, technical editors and translation project managers for translation companies and software developers, both in the United Kingdom and abroad.

Personal development

This course helps you to develop team working skills, presentation and communication skills, as well as research and report writing skills. Your IT skills will also benefit from use of our newly refurbished IT facilities which provide access to translation software suite, TRADOS.

Duration of programme: Full-time: 12 months, part-time: 2-3 years

Requirements

Entry Requirements

• Normally a good UK Honours Degree (minimum of an upper second class) in Translation Studies or in French and/or German and/or Spanish, or an overseas degree recognised by Aston University, plus two references.

International students whose native language is not English and have not completed a full degree programme taught in English, will also need to obtain:

• An overall IELTS score of 7 with a minimum of Band 7 in Speaking and Writing and Band 6.5 in Reading and Listening, or

• TOEFL score of 620 paper-based test (with TWE of 5.0), 260 computer-based test (with TWE of 5.0) or 105 internet-based test with a minimum of 25 in Writing and Speaking and 23 in Reading and Writing.

Holders of the Chartered Institute of Linguists' Diploma in Translation and Members of the Institute of Translation and Interpreting (ITI) may be awarded credits for prior experience.