Translation and interpreting

Discover translation and interpreting undergraduate degrees

A degree in translation and interpreting provides you with essential language proficiency in multiple languages and a deep understanding of diverse cultures. You will refine your communication, critical thinking, and time management skills, while also becoming proficient in translation and interpreting technology. Graduates of degrees in this field can pursue diverse career paths, including freelance work, localisation, and roles in international organisations.

How do I become a translator and interpreter and what will I learn when studying? 

To become a translator or interpreter you must first be fluent in multiple languages. Gaining a degree in translation and interpreting enables you to learn a language alongside training in conflict resolution, molding you into a versatile translator with the capability to interpret an array of written texts—ranging from medical and legal to business and technical documents. This holistic approach equips you not only with linguistic prowess but also with the practical skills needed to excel in the dynamic field of translation. Studying translation and interpreting not only offers career opportunities but also fosters cultural exchange and personal enrichment through engagement with different languages, cultures, and perspectives.

With our program you'll study two languages, choosing from French, German, Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish. You'll study your first language to mastery level and your second to proficiency. 

What facilities are on offer at Essex?

We boast state-of-the-art facilities, featuring an interpreting lab, unique to the East of England, equipped with cutting-edge tools to nurture your expertise in conference interpreting. Our Autonomous Learning Lab, provides a space for honing interpreting and subtitling skills, allowing you to independently utilise translation software. Additionally, our simultaneous interpreting booths enable you to interpret live conferences and lectures, accommodating audiences of up to 350 people.

Career prospects

Teaching, journalism, copy writing, translating, interpreting, marketing and public relations; these are just a few of the diverse career paths that a degree from the Department of Language and Linguistics could lead to.

Companies and organisations in the UK and abroad are struggling to find university graduates who are fluent in at least one other language, in addition to English. Being an Essex modern languages graduate places you in a very advantageous position. You will be able to speak and write fluently, or to a very competent standard, in up to two languages. Language skills are in scarce supply and can be used in almost any job.

Find out more about where your translating and interpreting degree could take you.

Explore translation, interpreting and subtitling postgraduate degrees

At Essex we focus on developing your practical ability to work between English and another language. 

We are 1^st in UK for research impact in modern languages and linguistics (Grade Point Average, Research Excellence Framework 2021), a place where talented students become part of an academic community that undertakes world-leading research.

Depending on the course you choose, we offer a range of languages for you to study including Arabic, French, German, Italian, Portuguese or Spanish.

Research degrees

Your PhD in Translation, Interpretation, and Subtitling will take you through the complexities of linguistic and cultural mediation. Our program goes beyond language conversion, emphasising theoretical foundations and practical applications. You'll specialise in subtitling, mastering the challenges of adapting content for global audiences while preserving cultural nuances. Through rigorous research, you'll contribute to advancing translation studies, developing expertise for careers in academia, research, and the language services industry.