MA Translation Studies

**Funding opportunities available**

The MA in Translation Studies complies with the guidelines for the European Master’s in Translation (EMT) proposed by the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Translation (DGT). The programme offers a balanced combination of theory and practice modules. Uniquely in the UK, the programme is designed to offer training in translation that is normally applicable to any source- and target-language pairing.

Programme

• The programme is aimed at students seeking a career as a translator (public and private sectors) or interested in the study of translation as a basis from which to pursue a PhD in such disciplines as translation studies, comparative literature, cultural studies or history. Training in translation will also prepare students for careers in other language-related professions, including journalism, public relations or language teaching.

Structure

• The period of study is twelve months (October to September). The taught element of the course takes place over two semesters (October to June). The dissertation or annotated translation research project is completed during the summer months and submitted at the end of September.The degree can also be taken over two years as part-time study.
• The MA Translation Studies Handbook has more detailed information on the degree structure, requirements and courses offered.

Assessment

• The method of assessment is by exams and essays. Students may choose to complete either a research-based dissertation of 20000 words or an annotated translation project comprising a translation of approximately 8000 words in the source text and 12000 words of reflective commentary.

Teaching

• The School appears in the 1st quartile of all major indicators in the UK's Research Assessment Exercise, including 2nd of 27 for Research Power

Compulsory Modules

• Theory of Translation This module aims to introduce students to the different contemporary translation theories which help to understand in a non-empirical way the practice of translation and to possess the metalanguage of translation studies necessary to guide translation choices. It focuses on the multidimensional aspects of translation: language, text, discourse, society and history.
• Translation Methods and Skills The module aims to provide students with knowledge of the basic translation methods and skills (e.g. finding documentation and specialised terminology) as well as with an introduction to the professional aspects of translation practice. The module also includes specialised seminars on translation technology and on academic research in translation studies.
• All Languages Translation Class The module aims to give an introduction to professional translation realities by studying different aspects of translation practice. It examines how translation between various languages or discourses is used in different fields of activity in order to show the relevance of translation in human societies and its central role in the development of cultures.

Option modules, students choose two from Group A and one from Group B.

Group A

• Specialized Translation: Literary translation
• Specialized Translation: Politics and Administration
• Specialized Translation: Business and Law
• Specialized Translation: Scientific and Technical translation
• Specialized Translation: Medical and Pharmaceutical translation
• Specialized Translation: Subtitling
• Training placement

Group B

• History of European Translation
• Translation of Minority Languages
• Translation and European cultures
• Translation and adaptation in the arts

Duration

• One year full-time
• Two years part-time

Starting date

• There is one intake each year in late September

Fees and support

• For information on all fees
• Scholarships are available

University residences

• All overseas/EU postgraduate students are guaranteed a single occupancy place in University residences, subject to conditions
• Unfortunately we are unable to guarantee UK postgraduates a place in University residences, but we organise a House Hunting Event to assist in your hunt for accommodation
• The majority of study bedrooms have en-suite facilities and all halls of residence have high speed internet access
• The Residences web site has further details on accommodation

Living expenses

• Cardiff: ‘one of the cheapest and safest cities in the UK’ (Sunday Times University Guide 2011)
• For 2011-12 the average student living expenses for the year, including the cost of accommodation, food, books, and other items, is expected to be approximately £8,400

Entry requirements

• The normal entry requirement is a minimum 2.1 degree classification or equivalent qualification in an undergraduate scheme involving languages.
• There are English language requirements for those whose first language is not English. The equivalent of 7 in IELTS including 6 in each element and 6.5 in writing must be obtained, or equivalent in TOEFL
• Applicants with alternative undergraduate degree backgrounds will be given the opportunity to demonstrate that they possess the appropriate linguistic skills and competences for the programme in the context of a written language test and/or interview.

When to apply

• Early application is strongly recommended
• Later applications will be considered, but international students must bear in mind the time needed to obtain a visa

How to apply

• Applications can either be made online or by using paper forms
• Supporting documentation including references will be required