Translation and Interpreting involves converting the meaning of written or spoken content from one language to another. While translation deals with written materials, interpreting refers to oral translation or through sign language. Professionals in the field have advanced knowledge of the languages used, but they also need to understand properly the subject matter of the translation.
Translating works with various documents including literary texts, web copy, reports, legal papers, instructional guides, brochures and more. Interpreting facilitates communication in different contexts such as international conferences and events, business meetings, video seminars, or criminal justice proceedings.
Interpreting and Translation relates to disciplines such as Language Studies, Linguistics, Comparative Literature and Cultural Studies. Professionals often have to work with other diverse areas, depending on the subject area of the material they are required to translate or interpret.
Translation and Interpreting programmes focus on one central language usually paired with English. There are also various specialisations within the field including literary translation, conference and community interpreting, intercultural service in healthcare, multilingual organisational communication or interpreting and translation for international business.
Example roles for future translators and interpreters include editors and proof-writers, language analysts, and also translators and interpreters in specific fields such as business, law, medicine or public services.