Modern Languages (Interpreting and Translating) MA (Hons)

Overview

We are ranked 2nd for German, 2nd for Iberian Languages and 3rd for French in Scotland by the Complete University Guide 2022.

MA (Hons) Modern Languages (Interpreting and Translating) allows you to study two languages to degree level and spend a year abroad on placement with two of Heriot-Watt University's partner universities, immersed in your studied languages and cultures.

Study two languages from:

• Chinese
• French
• German
• Spanish
• British Sign Language

UCAS Codes and Language Combinations

• French and German - UCAS Code: RR12
• French and Spanish - UCAS Code: RR14
• German and Spanish - UCAS Code: RR24
• Chinese and French - UCAS Code: RLCF
• Chinese and German - UCAS Code: RLCG 
• Chinese and Spanish - UCAS Code: RLCS
• BSL and Chinese – UCAS Code: RLSL
• BSL and French – UCAS Code: Q193
• BSL and German – UCAS Code: Q194
• BSL and Spanish - UCAS Code: Q195

Applied language skills

In addition to British Sign language courses, Chinese courses, French courses, German courses or Spanish courses, you will learn applied language studies for which Heriot-Watt University is best known, developing highly employable abilities in interpreting and translating.

You will study your chosen languages to an advanced level, learning in small class sizes in our unrivalled language teaching facilities. Gain practical experience in our refurbished interpreting booths, which are modelled on those used by the United Nations and European Parliament, and our computer labs with state-of-the-art Computer Aided Translation tools, as used by professional translators.

In Year 1, if it is necessary, we offer intensive language courses to help bring you up to speed in your second non-native language. This tried and tested approach ensures you will be able to use your interpreting and translating skills in two non-native languages by the time you graduate. Year 2 introduces regular classes on simultaneous interpreting and advances your language skills further.

Year 3 is spent abroad on exchange placements with our partner institutions or working in the Sign Language community if studying BSL. This is a unique opportunity to spend a year living and studying, immersed in your chosen languages and cultures. In Year 4 you will study advanced interpreting and translating skills and learn about political contexts and organisations.

Transferable professional skills

Our Modern Languages Interpreting and Translating degree will prepare you for careers requiring the practical application of advanced language, communication and intercultural skills and it will teach you about the wider professional contexts in which you will use these skills.

For example, you will learn about the unique interpreting approaches required for various professional contexts, such as: health care situations, business situations, legal contexts, or for conferences.

Accreditation

The Department of Languages and Intercultural Studies is a member of the Institute of Translation and Interpreting (ITI).

We are also official higher education partner of the Chartered Institute of Linguists – a professional body that maintains the highest standards for practising interpreters and translators: Chartered Institute of Linguists

In addition, we are founding members of CIUTI, the world’s oldest and most prestigious international association of universities who train interpreters and translators: CIUTI

Entry requirements