Professional Translation

The Bachelor of Arts in Professional Translation at Swansea University is a comprehensive, industry-oriented program designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge required to excel in the rapidly evolving field of translation. This degree combines rigorous language training with practical translation techniques, covering a wide range of sectors including legal, medical, technical, and commercial translation. Students will develop a deep understanding of the linguistic, cultural, and contextual factors that influence effective translation, ensuring they can produce accurate and culturally sensitive translations in various professional settings.

Throughout the course, learners will engage in numerous practical translation exercises, gaining hands-on experience using state-of-the-art translation tools and technology. The program emphasizes both the theoretical foundations of translation studies and the practical applications needed for a successful career. Students will study advanced language modules in at least two working languages, enhancing their linguistic competence and cultural awareness. Additionally, the program provides training in project management, ethical considerations, and the business aspects of translation, preparing graduates for freelance work, in-house roles, or advanced postgraduate study.

The curriculum also includes opportunities for internships and industry placements, allowing students to build professional networks and gain real-world experience. Swansea University's strong links with translation agencies and international organizations enable students to access valuable industry insights and employment pathways after graduation. The program fosters critical thinking, attention to detail, and adaptability—traits essential for delivering high-quality translations in diverse professional contexts. Upon completion, graduates will be well-equipped to pursue careers as professional translators, language consultants, localization specialists, or to continue their studies through postgraduate options.

Designed with input from industry experts and supported by experienced academic staff, the Professional Translation program at Swansea University aims to prepare students not only for current industry standards but also to adapt to future linguistic and technological developments in the translation profession. By the end of the program, students will have developed a portfolio of translated work and a professional profile ready to meet the demands of a globalized and multilingual world.

You will study a set number of compulsory and optional 20-credit modules on advanced translating and interpreting, before undertaking a 60-credit module on two extended translations, or an academic dissertation, or a 13-week internship at a translation company. Modules cover advanced translating and interpreting of numerous different languages in different contexts and industries. There are specialist modules for interpreting business, health and law.

Part One – Full-time students take three 20-credit (10 ECTS) modules in each of two academic semesters, while part-time students can distribute the same work flexibly over four semesters. There are three compulsory modules: Foundations of Translation and Interpreting, Translation Tools, and one Advanced Translation module from the range of language pairs listed above. Students then choose three optional modules.

Part Two - An individual project of 60 credits (30 ECTS) which full-time students undertake over the summer (by 15 September), while part-time students have up to a further year. The project can take three forms:

Two Extended Translations with commentary. These are chosen by the student and offer the opportunity to develop domains of specialisation. At least one must be technical and must be performed using a major CAT tool; or

Dissertation (15,000-20,000 words). This can be, for instance, on a topic in Translation Studies, a comparison of two or more published translations, terminology research in a specialised domain, or an investigation into aspects of translation technology. The dissertation offers excellent preparation for PhD work, but can also be a valuable indicator of professional expertise (e.g. in terminology or CAT tools); or

Internship (13 weeks full time, part time pro rata). This is the most vocational option and can be undertaken either in the UK or abroad. We make our extensive list of professional contacts available to students but they must make their own application to companies and pass admissions tests. A successful internship may turn into a first job.

Compulsory modules

• Advanced Translation (English-Arabic) 
• Advanced Translation (French - English)
• Advanced Translation (English - French)
• Advanced Translation (German - English)           
• Advanced Translation (Italian - English)
• Advanced Translation (English - Italian)
• Advanced Translation (Spanish - English)            
• Advanced Translation English to Spanish            
• Tools   
• Foundations of Translation and Interpreting

Optional modules 

• Technology Enhanced Language Teaching and Learning
• Beginners French for Postgraduate Students     
• Intermediate French for Postgraduate Students             
• Beginners German for Postgraduate Students  
• Reading Academic German       
• Beginners Italian for Postgraduate Students      
• Beginners Spanish for Postgraduate Students   
• Intermediate Spanish for Postgraduate Students           
• Interpreting - Health Option & Introduction to Conference Interpreting. Arabic, French, German, Italian, Spanish
• Interpreting - Law Option (Police & Introduction to Court Interpreting).              Arabic, French, German, Italian, Spanish
• Translation Technologies          
• Consecutive Conference Interpreting. Available in Spanish and Mandarin only
• Translation Work Experience for MA Students  
• Terminology Management        
• Audiovisual Adaptation
• Interpreting-Business Option. Available in Spanish and Mandarin only
• Simultaneous Conference Interpreting. Available in Spanish and Mandarin only
• Translation Theory and Ethics Through the Ages

A first degree, normally in Translation, a Language or a related subject, normally an upper second or above (or equivalent). As an alternative, we can accept a minimum of two years of relevant professional experience. Overseas students must be able to demonstrate English language competence at IELTS 6.5. level (or equivalent).

Application process

Applications for most of our postgraduate taught programmes can be made online through our OnTrack system.

• choose the course you want to apply for - search our postgraduate taught A-Z
• check the entry requirements for the course on the course page or in the prospectus
• apply online direct through OnTrack
• submit your application along with all supporting documentation - see our 'document checklist' below. Your application may be delayed if you fail to provide all the required documents
• to help you fill in the application form, please read our Postgraduate Application Guidance Notes.
• once you've submitted your application, you'll receive an email which contains your student number. This must be kept in a safe place and used in all future correspondence with us
• your application will be considered by the relevant selection team. If we need any further information you'll be contacted.
• we try to make a decision on your application as quickly as possible. In most cases this will be within 9 working days
• your decision letter will be emailed to you.

Application deadlines

Some Schools and Colleges have fixed closing dates for their taught courses, please see individual course pages for details.  Applicants for other courses are encouraged to apply by 31 July for entry in September, to ensure that vacancies are still available.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Financial support for the Professional Translation program at Swansea University is available through a variety of funding sources. Students enrolled in this programme can apply for government-specific scholarships, grants, and bursaries designed to support higher education. The university also offers its own scholarships, which are awarded based on academic achievement, financial need, and other criteria. Prospective students are encouraged to explore the university’s Scholarship and Funding database to identify relevant opportunities.

Additionally, students may access student loans provided by the Student Loans Company, which are designed to cover tuition fees and living expenses. The availability and eligibility for these loans depend on the student’s domicile and residency status. International students should investigate scholarship options specifically tailored to non-UK residents, as well as any potential financial assistance from their home country or through external funding organizations.

Swansea University also participates in various external funding schemes, including research grants and industry sponsorships, which can provide additional financial support for students, particularly those involved in applied translation research or projects with commercial partners. Some programmes may also offer paid internship opportunities or work placements, allowing students to earn income while gaining practical experience.

Students are advised to contact the university’s Financial Support Office early in their application process to get personalized advice and assistance. The office provides guidance on completing funding applications, understanding tuition fee structures, and managing living costs. It is recommended that students budget carefully and consider additional costs such as accommodation, textbooks, and personal expenses when planning their finances.

Finally, Swansea University offers flexible payment plans for tuition fees, enabling students to spread payments over the academic year. These payment options aim to ease financial burdens and improve access to education. Overall, students enrolled in the Professional Translation program have multiple pathways to support their studies financially, ensuring that finances do not impede their academic and professional development in translation studies.

The vocational MA in Professional Translation will significantly enhance your prospects for a career in translation. Over the course of your studies, or your internship, you may make important connections for your future work. Graduates from this course enter a range of different translation and interpreting roles. Many also undertake research degrees and pursue a career in academia.

You will study a set number of compulsory and optional 20-credit modules on advanced translating and interpreting, before undertaking a 60-credit module on two extended translations, or an academic dissertation, or a 13-week internship at a translation company. Modules cover advanced translating and interpreting of numerous different languages in different contexts and industries. There are specialist modules for interpreting business, health and law.

In the second part, the extended translations option offers you the chance to develop an area of specialisation. One translation must be technical and performed using a major CAT tool. The dissertation option can concentrate on a translation studies topic, such as a comparison of two or more published translations, or terminology research in a specialist area, or an investigation into  translation technology.  The internship option can be undertaken either in the UK or abroad. Our extensive list of professional contacts is available to you but you must make your own applications and pass admissions tests.