Translation and Interpreting with Japanese and French (Double Degree)

Established at the University of East Anglia, the Double Degree in Translation and Interpreting with Japanese and French offers students a comprehensive and immersive linguistic education, combining rigorous language training with practical translation and interpreting skills. This unique programme is designed for students who are passionate about languages and intercultural communication, seeking to develop their proficiency in Japanese and French alongside specialised skills in translation and interpretation. Throughout the course, students engage in advanced language modules, gaining deep cultural understanding and enhanced linguistic competence in both target languages. The curriculum emphasizes practical application, with extensive training in translating a wide range of texts, including literary, technical, and commercial materials, as well as professional interpreting in various settings such as conferences, negotiations, and media events. Students benefit from learning in a multidisciplinary environment, supported by experienced academics and industry professionals who provide insights into current trends, technological tools, and ethical considerations in translation and interpreting. The Double Degree structure allows students to earn two qualifications, broadening their employment prospects across international organisations, diplomatic services, translation agencies, and media companies. The programme also offers opportunities for internships and placements, enabling students to gain real-world experience and build professional networks. Graduates of this Double Degree are well-equipped to pursue careers as skilled translators and interpreters, or to continue their studies in postgraduate programmes. With a strong emphasis on intercultural competence, industry-standard practices, and linguistic mastery, the programme at UEA prepares students to excel in the fast-paced, globally interconnected world of translation and interpretation.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 10560 Year (EEA)
• EUR 14430 Year (Non-EEA)

UK/EU £9,000; International £12,300

Course Content

Year One

In Year One, as subsequently, language modules make up the compulsory component of the programme. You then have scope to choose from a range of options which normally include: Popular Culture in Latin America, Media Culture, Media Power, Analysing Film and Television, Introduction to Cultural Studies, Big Brother? The Politics and Sociology of Media and Culture, and Discourse and Power. Alternatively, you can choose from our wide range of subsidiary languages and thus develop your expertise in a previously studied non-A level language, or increase the range of languages you possess by starting a new one; many students develop one or two subsidiary languages over more than one year of their degree. Our range of subsidiary languages is currently as follows: British Sign Language, Catalan, Mandarin Chinese, French, German, Modern Greek, Italian, Japanese and Russian Many of these can be studied for a second year (to intermediate level, i.e. A level equivalent); there are also one-year and two-year post-A level subsidiary courses in some languages.

Year Two

Core honours language study makes up at least one third of your study for the remaining two years spent at UEA. In Year Two, you also have the compulsory module Translation Issues in the Media. For your remaining study, you choose two modules from a wide range of options which normally include a translation strand – Translation and Adaptation, Subtitling and Dubbing, and Translation Work Experience, for example; a cultural strand – Spain through the Eye of the Lens, An Introduction to Latin American Cinema, and Introduction to the European Union; and a media strand – The Construction of News, European Media and The EU: News and Documentary, Cultural Theory and Analysis, Publishing, The Economics of Film and TV. There is also one module of free choice. It is also possible to continue the study of a Subsidiary language in Year Two.

The Year Abroad

Year Three is spent in a country where your Honours language is spoken. For further information, please click on the Study Abroad tab above.

Final Year

In your Final Year, alongside your core Honours language study, you two from a large range including, Interpreting, Translation Theory and Practice, Subtitling and Dubbing, Translation Work Experience, Language and Society, Political Communication and others.
Your choice of options is made in consultation with your Adviser, who will ensure that it not only reflects your interests, but that it is also academically coherent.

Honours Language Work

In each year, you have on average 4 contact-hours per week in your Honours language (more if you study Spanish from beginners level). The Honours language teaching is closely related to the study of contemporary society in the country (or countries) where your Honours language is spoken and your experience of learning language at UEA will include a combination of lectures, seminars and conversation classes. It will cover grammar, translation from and into Spanish, reading and listening comprehension, précis and paraphrase work, the study of different styles and registers, lexical exercises and oral work. You will also spend a significant proportion of time working independently using subject-oriented teaching dossiers, radio, TV, films, transcripts, newspapers and online resources while keeping abreast of current affairs and cultural life at home and abroad. Our Language Centre has a digital language laboratory, a viewing and editing room, an interpreting suite for advanced language training, live satellite television broadcasts in Spanish, a large, multi-media self-access resources room with a wide range of Spanish DVDs and reference books, up-to-date computers linked to the internet, and translation software.
You will acquire specific expertise in the traditional language skills of reading, writing, speaking and listening, as well as transferable skills such as time
management, self-discipline and self-motivation, intercultural awareness, flexibility and resourcefulness, mediation skills, IT literacy and teamwork.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6.5 TOEFL iBT® test : 88

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

• A Level: ABB
• International Baccalaureate: 32
• Scottish Advanced Highers: ABB
• Irish Leaving Certificate: AABBBB
• Access Course: Please contact the University for further information.
• HND: Please contact the University for further information.
• European Baccalaureate: 75%

Students for whom English is a Foreign language

We welcome applications from students from all academic backgrounds. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading). Recognised English Language qualifications include:

• IELTS: 6.5 overall (minimum 6.0 in all components)
• TOEFL: Internet-based score of 88 overall (minimum 18 in the Listening and Writing components; 19 in the Reading component; and 21 in the Speaking component)
• PTE: 62 overall with minimum 55 in all components

If you do not meet the University's entry requirements, our INTO Language Learning Centre offers a range of university preparation courses to help you develop the high level of academic and English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study.

Interviews

The School does not currently interview all applicants for undergraduate study as standard, however we do offer the opportunity to meet with an academic individually on a Visit Day in order to gain a deeper insight into the course(s) you have applied for.

Gap Year

We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year.

Deferred Entry

We also welcome applications for deferred entry, believing that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry and may wish to contact the appropriate Admissions Office directly to discuss this further.

Special Entry Requirements

It is generally expected that you should have at least a Grade B at A Level, or its equivalent, in the language or languages that you intend to take at honours level.

In the case of Spanish or Japanese studied from Beginners' or Spanish, French or Japanese from post-GCSE level, we require evidence of foreign language learning ability, such as a good grade in a foreign language at GCSE.

Intakes

The School's annual intake is in September of each year.

Alternative Qualifications

If you have alternative qualifications that have not been mentioned above then please contact the University directly for further information.

GCSE Offer

Students are required to have Mathematics and English at Grade C or above at GCSE level.

Assessment

For the majority of candidates the most important factors in assessing the application will be past and future achievement in examinations, academic interest in the subject being applied for, personal interest and extra-curricular activities and the confidential reference. We consider applicants as individuals and accept students from a very wide range of educational backgrounds and spend time considering your application in order to reach an informed decision relating your application. Typical offers are indicated above. Please note, there may be additional subject entry requirements specific to individual degree courses.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of East Anglia.

The Translation and Interpreting with Japanese and French (Double Degree) programme at the University of East Anglia offers students a comprehensive education in language skills, translation techniques, and intercultural communication. This programme is designed for students who are proficient in both Japanese and French and wish to develop their expertise in translation, localisation, and interpreting within diverse professional contexts. The curriculum combines language studies with practical translation workshops, interpreting practice, and theoretical modules to ensure students are well-equipped for careers in international diplomacy, business, publishing, and cultural exchange.

Students benefit from dedicated language laboratories, access to state-of-the-art interpreting facilities, and opportunities for placements and internships with translation agencies and international organisations. The programme emphasizes both spoken and written translation, with a focus on accuracy, cultural sensitivity, and professional standards. Throughout their studies, students develop advanced vocabulary, research skills, and familiarity with various translation tools and software.

The double degree aspect allows students to spend dedicated periods at partner institutions abroad, gaining valuable intercultural experience and improving their language proficiency in authentic contexts. In addition to language training, students explore topics such as translation ethics, project management, and current trends in multilingual communication. The programme also encourages participation in conferences, translation competitions, and collaborative projects, preparing graduates for the demands of a dynamic global market.

Graduates of the programme will have a bilingual or multilingual proficiency, professional translation skills, and an understanding of the cultural nuances necessary for effective communication across languages. This versatile qualification opens up employment opportunities in translation and interpreting agencies, multinational companies, governmental bodies, and international NGOs. The University of East Anglia’s strong network of industry contacts and its focus on employability ensure that students receive tailored support and guidance throughout their studies.

Overall, this Double Degree programme in Translation and Interpreting with Japanese and French aims to produce highly skilled, adaptable, and culturally aware translation professionals who are capable of acting as bridges between Japan, France, and the wider global community.