personal statement for translation studies

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Samples of my work for graduate school admission in translation.

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Career Opportunities in Translation

What Is Language Studies?

If you have a natural aptitude for languages, you can use that talent to open up careers in international trade and politics, or in helping other language communities in your area to receive full access to services and opportunities.

Keep in mind that a language major is not the same as a linguistics degree. Linguists study language itself, from the way we make sounds to the words and sentences we use. Language majors choose a particular language (and, by extension, a culture) to study and become fluent in, leading to job opportunities around the world.

Careers for Language Degree Holders

Jobs that make direct use of the skills earned in a language degree program involve either interpretation (the spoken word) or translation (written documents). Other career opportunities for language majors exist in international relations, diplomacy, intelligence gathering, literature, journalism, law, medicine, education, tourism, the Foreign Service, environmental agencies, non-profit organizations, information technology, and international commerce.

Translation & Interpretation Careers

Interpreters and translators enable the cross-cultural communication that is crucial in today's society. Translators are most in demand for the languages referred to as PFIGS Portuguese, French, Italian, German, and Spanish, and the principal Asian languages--Chinese, Japanese, and Korean.

Using a Language Degree in the Business World

Even with the growing popularity of English as the unofficial language of business, it's to your great advantage to be proficient in the language of your potential business associates. By knowing their language, you gain a deeper understanding of their culture and customs and have a clearer view of how your business fits in with their needs. Reading their newspapers, trade publications, or viewing their popular media via satellite can give you an advantage in understanding their environment and how it affects their opinions.

The more education you have as an interpreter or translator, the better, since you may be asked to deal with complex issues or very technical explanations on behalf of your client. You do more than just translate words - you relay concepts and ideas between languages.

Some interpreters and translators expand their formal education to meet the requirements of their chosen fields, such as medicine, technology, culture, or politics. Online college classes can provide training in the newest technology that aids in translation work. Special software now provides professionals with automatic translation, memory to compare previous documents on the same subject, and sources to provide further research into word definitions and usage.

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MA Translation Personal Statement Sample 1st Paragraph, Simultaneous Interpretation

My own PHD is in the field of Religion, but I also studied for one year towards a Master's Degree in TESOL. After that first year, I had the privilege of taking part in a long established exchange program between my university, the University of Illinois at Champain/Urbana, and the Department of German and English Philology at the Universitat de Barcelona. One of my duties during this academic year in Barcelona (1996-1997) was to serve as a Teaching Assistant to a Professor of Translation from whom I learned a great deal, especially with respect to European languages.

Search by Degree, Field, or Country of Origin

I want to help you get a masters in translation..

 I would be happy to provide you with a highly eloquent Statement that portrays you as someone with enormous potential to contribute to the advance of the field of Translation over the long term. After you fill out my  Online Interview Form , I will ask you some specific questions by email if I need any further information. Please also send your resume/CV and or rough draft if you have one.

The Personal Statement of Purpose for Advanced Study in Translation, Masters Degree, Certificate Programs.

The first thing that one has to decide when researching translation programs is what kind of program one wants to apply to. You need to ask yourself first and foremost what kind of translator you want to be: a general translator or a translator with specific credentials such as in the areas of medicine, law, or literature.

A master’s degree or PhD in translation or translation studies generally refers to a comprehensive, general translation program. These programs are interdisciplinary and allow students to dabble in historical, literary, and scientific areas at the same time that they acquire a solid grounding in general translation skills. Computer skills are emphasized as an essential tool for translators and classes teaching the use and development of translation computer programs and glossary management are often a key component of these programs.

 Graduates of translation studies programs are qualified to work in the private sector as freelance translators or for government agencies. PhD graduates often stay in academia and teach linguistics or translation studies. Like any comprehensive humanities degree, a Master’s degree or PhD in translation studies allows each student to tailor the program to his or her individual interests and the area of specialization that they want to develop. Graduate programs in literary translation leading to the MFA offer training in the theory and practice of literary translation. These graduate students generally build a specialization in one foreign language, although sometimes a program requires a candidate to specialize in multiple languages.

Court, medical, and conference translation programs are awarded at the certificate level. Dozens of translation certification programs exist in the United States and narrowing down the programs can require a lot of research. Some certificates are general French translation, German translation, Spanish translation, etc.; others are geared to a specific field: legal, medical, etc. General certificates function like the graduate degrees in translation studies, allowing for a translator to gain advanced study in the foreign language as well as to take courses specific to the profession.

It is very important that you carefully review the style and presentation of your application material for graduate school or a certificate program before submitting it, especially your Personal Statement of Purpose. Seeking the assistance of a professional writer is often a very good idea, especially if English is your second or third language. I would be happy to draft the first paragraph free of charge so that I have the opportunity to demonstrate to you how I can help in this regard. You will only need to pay for my services if you are very impressed with the first paragraph and decide to commission me to draft the entire statement.

Other Language Courses

Language certificates can provide proof of proficiency if you are already a working professional who needs to be fluent in another business language. If you decide to go for a master's degree, you can specialize in specific languages, interpretation, translation, or foreign or comparative literature. A master's degree in languages is good for anyone who wants to work as a conference interpreter or in more technical areas, such as localization, engineering, or finance.

Translating Offensive Words

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Statements of Excellence in Translation

Sample 1st Paragraph Translation Masters, Somali Woman

Translators without Borders Kenya Healthcare Translation Training Program.

The Humanitarian Side of Translation

Translators without Borders is a community that translates to save lives. Over 3,000 volunteers use their language skills to help in humanitarian work, and you could easily become one of them.

Some translation humor was making the rounds of the Internet a while ago. Underneath a photo of an empty roll of toilet paper was the caption, “Translation is like toilet paper. No one thinks about it until they need it.”

Being invisible is not just a problem for translators. It’s also a problem for almost every international humanitarian crisis. It’s a problem that costs lives, and as the founder of the language charity Translators without Borders, Lori Thicke has seen first-hand how critical translation is to humanitarian work and how, very often, “no one thinks about it.”

Founding Translators without Borders

Thicke can’t say that she founded Translators without Borders to raise awareness of the need for translation. She founded it to support humanitarian work.

It started with Traducteurs sans frontières, a much smaller French charity and the precursor to Translators without Borders. In Paris in 1993, Medecins sans frontières (Doctors without Borders) asked her French translation company, Lexcelera, to provide a price estimate for one of their projects.

Instead of giving them a quote, she told them they would do the work for free—as long as they used the money they saved to help more people.

This was the beginning of Traducteurs sans Frontières, which she founded with her partner, Ros Smith-Thomas. Over the next 17 years, Lexcelera provided pro bono project management to support a community of professional translators around the world who assisted humanitarian organizations like Medecins sans frontières, Action Against Hunger, Ashoka, and Handicap International—through the donation of around a million words annually.

When the earthquake struck Haiti in 2010, so much translation was needed that a million words suddenly seemed like a drop in an enormous bucket. Not only could they not cope with the volume, requests for translation came in so quickly that they were unable to respond as needed. Over a thousand translators contacted them each week, wanting to help alleviate Haiti’s misery by donating their skills, but they just didn’t have the capacity to take that many volunteers on all at once.

When Communication Is Aid, Translation Matters

In a crisis, information is aid, and questions are generated, like: How do I protect myself and my family? Where is it safe for us to go, find food, water, and shelter?

Haiti taught Thicke that what people need most in a disaster can be the one thing that is in shortest supply: information in their own language.

In the words of Rebecca Petras, Translators without Borders´ Program Director: “Following a crisis, one of the most immediate priorities for both relief workers and victims is disseminating and receiving information, yet language barriers frequently complicate response efforts.”

Before Haiti, humanitarian translation in a crisis was barely even on the radar. Why? Because there were few opportunities to communicate directly with the affected population, in most cases.

At best, aid organizations would communicate with local nonprofits with the hope that there was a common language between them, and those nonprofits would communicate with the local people.

Mobile technology changed all that. Even the very poor often have access to a mobile phone. In Haiti, the cellphone towers were restored quickly, so cellphones were used en masse to seek help.

During the first six weeks following the earthquake, 40,000 messages were received at a national call number set up to coordinate aid and survivors texted for help to dig others out of the rubble, to ask for food and water, and to find loved ones.

The messages were in the language mostly spoken by the poor, Haitian Kreyol, but this was not a language understood by most of the rescuers. Haiti was the first crisis that made Thicke aware that communication had to happen in local languages.

Haiti showed Thicke that she had to change the organization if they were going to be of any use in a crisis. They needed to scale up, with more volunteers offering more languages. Until then, they had only been translating to and from a handful of European languages.

They also needed to speed the process by automating project management.

To prepare themselves to be better able to respond the next time a crisis hit, she founded a new organization, Translators without Borders, as a registered U.S.-based charity, and assembled a board of directors who were translation industry experts.

The first two goals of the new organization were to raise awareness of the importance of translation and to support humanitarian work through the donation of translation services. They were achievable with the infrastructure they set up.

One of the first actions of Translators without Borders was to team up with ProZ.com, which donated a project management platform and a full-time project manager. This allowed them to scale up their efforts almost immediately.

The community of translators grew, and they were able to donate their time to help lots more organizations. This number has grown to 490 charities at the time of writing, including Partners in Health, Kiva, Zafèn, Good Planet, and Oxfam, all of which are supported by more than 3,000 Translation without Borders volunteers.

Want to join? It does sound good, doesn´t it? If you do join, and you need help putting together a compelling personal statement that´s guaranteed to make a splash in the humanitarian world, let us know!

The U.S. Department of State has a three-part test for interpreters, including simple consecutive interpreting (escort), simultaneous interpreting (court/seminar), and conference-level interpreting (international conferences). These tests are not referred to directly as certification, but successful completion often indicates you have an adequate level of skill to work in the field.

Organizations dedicated to these professions can provide valuable advice and guidance for people interested in learning more about interpretation and translation. The language services division of local hospitals or courthouses may also offer information about available opportunities.

Translation Studies, MA

Ma in translation.

Note: Our MA in Translation is theory-guided and skills-focused. If you're interested in a theoretical and literary studies approach to studying translation, see the Department of Comparative Literature's MA track in translation studies .

See this flow chart to help distinguish between the two options. 

The MA in Translation requires thirty-two credits that can be completed in three or four semesters of full-time study and prepares students for careers as professional translators with companies or as freelancers or for further graduate study at the doctoral level. 

Driven by the ever-greater reliance of business, industry, and governments on translation, the demand for professionals with strong translation skills is now higher than ever. Well-trained translators are employed in a wide spectrum of positions, both with translation companies and as direct hires in a wide-variety of industries. Students who complete the MA in Translation are well-prepared to fill this growing need.

The Master’s program offers individualized tracks to accommodate a variety of backgrounds. Students develop a solid experience in the practice of translation, from literary genres to real-world applications to deep dives into specialized areas of translation, such as arts, medical, and financial translation. Real world opportunities exist for those who opt for an internship. Everyone receives a foundational knowledge in translation studies theories and considers how theory informs their practice.  

Our program is built around the workshop model for learning translation. All graduate students take small group workshops each semester to build professional translation skills and gain the broad knowledge necessary to manage a variety of translation jobs and to specialize in one or more chosen areas. 

The curriculum also includes elective coursework in the following areas:

• History and traditions of translation studies
• Comparative literature
• Cultural and postcolonial studies
• Gender and race studies
• National literatures and major figures

Along with translation and translation studies, our faculty specialize in areas such as linguistics, literature, race and gender theory, and area studies for languages such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Korean, Japanese and Spanish. 

GUidelines & Checklists for Current Students

Students pursuing the MA in Translation must follow the standard Graduate School matriculation procedures.

Admission decisions are made by the TRIP Director, in consultation with the advisory committee and any other faculty member whose expertise seems appropriate for the applicant. 

Graduate applicants submit the following: 

• Transcripts demonstrating a completed Bachelor’s Degree and a 3.0 or higher GPA (or its equivalent); 
• Standard exam scores, if relevant (the GRE is optional); 
• Two writing samples, one in each language, one of which can be non-academic (minimum of 2 pages each in 12 point font, one-inch margins);
• Two letters of recommendation;
• Personal statement that declares your languages and discusses your language proficiency, particularly in regard to reading:

Graduate applicants’ materials should demonstrate the following background:

A waiver for the proof of English proficiency requirement is available to applicants who meet the following eligibility criteria:

Have received a graduate-level degree from an accredited institution in the United States, United Kingdom (England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales), Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Ghana, Liberia, Kenya, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Malawi, Gambia, Tanzania, and some Canadian provinces. or

Have completed at least two years of full-time study at an accredited institution in the United States, United Kingdom (England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales), Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Ghana, Liberia, Kenya, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Malawi, Gambia, Tanzania, and some Canadian provinces. or

Are a current Binghamton University student.

• Near-native fluency in a second language;
• Optionally, but desirable: a good reading knowledge of a third language, meaning the applicant can read reliably with a dictionary;
• Previous immersion in a culture where the second language is spoken;
• Background coursework in translation studies is desirable but not required.

Note: The Master’s in Translation is part of the Translation Research and Instruction Program (TRIP), and is not managed by the Department of Comparative Literature. Please direct any questions about the Master’s degree in Translation to TRIP and any questions about the Master's degree in Translation Studies to Comparative Literature.

Students completing the Translation Research and Instruction Program (TRIP) master’s in Translation Studies will obtain the following abilities:

• Articulate the major theories of translation studies and their importance to the translator; 
• Apply one or more schools of translation theory to their translation practice and articulate which theory/ies and which decisions demonstrate these choices and how; 
• Demonstrate the ability to produce professional-level translation products, including for such specific areas as literature, the arts and film, health and medical, or financial; 
• Demonstrate the ability to use tools approved by the profession; 
• Demonstrate an understanding and appreciation of critical matters for translators, such as gender and race sensitivity, ethical choices in translation, bilingualism and bicultural knowledge in relation to the needs of the translator; translation of taboos, translation and human sciences.

Program of Courses (Required Core Curriculum)

Translation Practice

• TRIP 572: Translation Workshop: Literary - (4 credits)
• TRIP 573: Translation Workshop: Non-Literary - (4 credits)
• TRIP 561: Computer-Assisted Translation (4 credits)

Translation Theory

• TRIP 560: Intro to Translation Studies - (4 credits)

Summative Project (Internship or Translation Project)

• TRIP 595: MA Summative Project (1-4 credits)

Workshop and Disciplinary Electives - (16 credits)

The Translation Research and Instruction Program offers additional workshops for translator training and translation studies topics courses that include:

• TRIP 574: Medical Translation (2 credits)
• TRIP 575: Financial Translation (2 credits)
• TRIP 576: Arts & Theater Translation (2 credits)
• TRIP 563: Project Management in Translation (4 credits)
• TRIP 564: Culture and Translation (4 credits)
• TRIP 580E: Translation and Creativity (4 credits)
• TRIP 580P: Taboos in Translation (4 credits)
• TRIP 580V: Contact Linguistics (4 credits)

Depending on their interests, students may choose electives from a variety of courses in other academic departments, encompassing disciplines such as:

• Criticism and textual analysis (e.g., Comparative Literature, Philosophy)
• Cultural studies (e.g., Anthropology, Sociology, area-specific studies)
• World languages and literatures
• Technical fields (e.g., business or the sciences)
• Pedagogy (education and language departments)

Total Credits Required  -  (32 credits)

Residency Requirement: Students are expected to be in residence for at least twenty-four (24) credits of their formal course work, which will usually take between three semesters and two academic years.

For their culminating project, students may choose between an internship or a translation project. 

In consultation with TRIP, students may secure a practical translation internship opportunity during a given semester. The credits earned will depend on the weekly time commitment. The internship is overseen by a faculty member, whose level of guidance will vary depending on their role. Some internships will be overseen by a faculty member in the form of a professional translation project, such as for a law firm or placements at local or regional agencies. TRIP maintains contacts for potential internships; however, students are ultimately responsible for coordinating their internship directly with a given person or agency. The credits will range from one to four, depending on the weekly time commitment for the internship. 

Students who complete a Translation Project will work with a faculty member, who will select a literary or non-literary text of approximately 7,000 words. The translation will include translator’s notes and annotations and is an open-book, take home assignment. The total submission will range from 15-30 pages. The translation project will constitute a four-credit course. 

For both the Internship and Translation Project, students take TRIP 595 for one semester.

TRIP Internship and Translation Project hours-to-credit scale: 

Advising/Contact

Tarek Shamma

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Last Updated: 8/28/23

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International

Ma translation, course information.

English and Creative Writing

1 year full-time or 2 years part-time

Scholarship information

Funding available

Course overview

This programme responds to the increasing need in a globalised, interconnected world, for highly qualified translators with a command of computer-assisted translation tools and common software applications, who can navigate different genres of text and negotiate the language needs of diverse audiences and industries.

We welcome applications from students working with English and any other language. With its open language pair applications system, this linguistically and culturally diverse Translation Masters attracts applicants from across the world and our trainee translators are encouraged to pursue a wide range of language combinations. Language pairs we have supported include:

• English to Arabic
• English to Chinese
• Chinese to English
• English to Dutch
• English to French
• French to English
• English to German
• German to English
• English to Italian
• Italian to English
• Norwegian to English
• English to Polish
• English to Spanish
• Spanish to English
• English to Swedish
• English to Ukrainian

If you wish to work with a language that is not listed above, please note that applicants may indicate their preference for any language, translating either into or out of English.

Language-specific translation mentoring

The MA in Translation at Goldsmiths is one of the only programmes to assign students a professional translation mentor who will read your work and give dedicated feedback for you to implement as you progress throughout the programme.

Developed in line with professional translation industry standard, the Translation Mentoring Scheme creates a unique opportunity to put your translation studies into practice, with the support of a translation expert who can act as an adviser for all aspects of life as a professional translator, such as time management, managing your finances and understanding contracts, as well as support your practical translation skills.

A community of linguists

You will be part of a supportive community of linguists. We help you develop peer support groups where you can meet other students, develop your language skills, and help each other solve common language problems. Our strong links with the MAs in Sociocultural Linguistics and Multilingualism, Linguistics & Education enable you to supplement your translator training with an understanding of the functioning of languages, including discourse analysis and intercultural communication. Students interested in corpus linguistics for translation purposes will have access to training in corpus management and text analysis software.

Through the Goldsmiths Learn a Language scheme, you will be able to develop foreign language skills, meet speakers of a range of different languages and share your own language skills with others.

Research and real-world practice

At the end of the MA, you will have the opportunity to produce an extended practical translation relevant to your career goals, as part of your independent capstone project, and you will not be asked to complete a viva voce examination. Past students have used this as an opportunity to localise a videogame, subtitle a video, or translate a chapter of a book for pitching to publishers.

Computer-aided translation software for the degree is provided by Phrase TMS . As part of your studies, you will also be provided with access to XTRF , a cloud-based end-to-end translation management system and the XTRF Academy , the always-on training and development resource.

Employability and professional links

We’ll help you build your employability skills and kickstart your continuous professional development through our key industry affiliations. The MA in Translation is a member of the Institute of Translators and Interpreters (ITI), the only UK-based independent professional membership association for practising translators, interpreters and language service businesses. The programme is also a member of the  Globalization and Localization Association  (GALA) and the  Association of Programmes in Translation and Interpreting Studies of the UK and Ireland (APTIS).

All students are encouraged to apply for placement opportunities through the optional ‘Translation Work Experience’ module.

Next live chat with the Programme Coordinators

Meet virtually with the MA in Translation Programme Coordinator / Deputy Coordinator to find out more about the Translation Mentoring Scheme, what optional modules you can take, how the capstone project works, and what placement / translation work experience opportunities you can expect over the course of your studies. It’s also a great opportunity to discuss what language combinations you’d like to specialise in, as part of our open language pair applications system.

View dates of upcoming live chat sessions and book a meeting slot with  Programme Coordinator Dr Sarah Maitland and with  Deputy Programme Coordinator Dr Arianna Autieri.

Claudine Picardet Prize

From September 2023, we're launching the inaugural Claudine Picardet Prize. Born in France in 1735, Claudine Picardet was a scientist and prolific translator of scientific texts from Swedish, English, German and Italian into French. The prize will be offered to the student producing the highest-scoring capstone project at the end of their MA in Translation.

Contact the department

If you have specific questions about the degree, contact Dr Sarah Maitland or Dr Arianna Autieri .

What you'll study

Compulsory modules.

The compulsory modules on this programme offer a solid grounding in the theory and practice of translation across diverse areas of professional practice and translation research. These are taught in seminar-based and tutorial small-group sessions.

You will also have access to the specialist teaching and research expertise offered by subject experts in the Department of English and Creative Writing in linguistics, comparative literature, and literary theory, from discourse analysis, sociolinguistics, and language and its interface with issues of gender, ethnicity and identity, to key currents of concern in literary and cultural theory and the role of the text in shifting boundaries of cultural and linguistic identity in a globalised, multicultural world.

Students undertaking the optional ‘Translation Work Experience’ module will also have the opportunity to undertake a telecommuting (i.e., online) placement with an external organisation to provide a range of translation and/or other language services and gain first-hand experience of translation in a professional setting.

You will also produce a capstone project at the end of your MA, in which you will focus on either reflecting critically on the theory and/or practice of translation through an in-depth research project or completing a concrete practical translation project of your choice, alongside a translation commentary.

Optional Modules

In addition, you are able to choose 60 credits from a range of option modules, which allows you to explore your interests and to gain specialist knowledge relating to your future career plans. This could include modules from within the Department of English and Creative Writing, or from other departments such as the Institute for Creative and Cultural Entrepreneurship  or  Media and Communications .

Please note that not all modules may be available every year, and that new ones may be introduced. Examples of recent modules can be seen below.

Educational Studies

Institute for Creative and Cultural Entrepreneurship

You may also wish to look at the complete list of postgraduate programmes available across the College offering modules which may be taken as optional choices as part of your MA in Translation.

Download the programme specification .

Please note that due to staff research commitments not all of these modules may be available every year.

What our students say

Yazeed alshaya.

A diverse and creative atmosphere

Many students at Goldsmiths and other universities find their favourite part of their degree to be the opportunity for intellectual exploration and growth. They appreciate the chance to delve deep into their chosen field of study, engage in meaningful discussions with professors and peers, and expand their knowledge and critical thinking skills. The diverse and creative atmosphere at Goldsmiths can be particularly inspiring for those pursuing degrees in fields like Translation Studies, where exposure to different cultures and languages can be enriching.

The experience within a department can vary, but a supportive academic environment and passionate faculty members are often key factors in a positive university experience. Students may also be surprised by the independence and responsibility that comes with university life, as well as the opportunity to meet people from diverse backgrounds.

Studying at Goldsmiths can have a profound impact on personal growth, fostering independence, critical thinking, and cultural awareness. These qualities often shape individuals into more well-rounded and confident individuals as they navigate their future careers and life experiences.

Connect with people from diverse backgrounds

One of the highlights of studying in New Cross, South East London, was undoubtedly the opportunity to connect with people from diverse backgrounds. Meeting new friends from various nationalities added a rich layer of cultural exchange to my academic experience. It opened my eyes to different perspectives, customs, and traditions, fostering a more comprehensive understanding of the world around me.

Another cherished aspect was the vibrant atmosphere of the local library. Regular meetings in the library allowed for focused study sessions and collaborative learning with fellow students. It was a place of intellectual stimulation, where we shared knowledge, exchanged ideas, and worked together to achieve our academic goals. The sense of community within those library walls was truly inspiring and played a significant role in enhancing my educational journey.

Advice for future students

Studying at Goldsmiths or any university can be an exciting and transformative experience. Here are some general tips and advice for making the most of your university journey:

1. Plan your finances - Create a budget to manage your expenses, including tuition, accommodation, food, and leisure activities. - Explore scholarship and financial aid options to ease the financial burden.

2. Choose your major wisely: - Select a major that aligns with your interests, passions, and long-term career goals. - Don't be afraid to explore different courses before settling on a major.

3. Manage your time effectively: - Create a study schedule that allows for a balanced life. Allocate time for classes, study sessions, extracurricular activities, and downtime. - Use tools like calendars and to-do lists to stay organised.

4. Network and build relationships: - Connect with professors, advisors, and classmates. Building relationships can open up opportunities for mentorship and collaboration. - Attend networking events and career fairs to expand your professional circle.

5. Use university resources: - Familiarise yourself with the library, academic support services, and career development resources available on campus. - Take advantage of workshops and seminars to enhance your skills.

6. Stay informed and involved: - Stay updated on university policies, deadlines, and important dates. - Participate in student governance or student organisations to have a say in university matters.

Remember that university is a unique opportunity for personal and intellectual growth. It's essential to find a balance between academics and personal development while making the most of your time at Goldsmiths or any other university.

Elena Philpott

Hands-on experience

My favourite part of the degree was the hands-on work experience module. I was given the fortunate opportunity to complete a virtual work experience placement with the Open Art Association, in Barcelona. I was able to work in a supported environment to gain experience in the field of professional translation. The team both at the association, and the university, were excellent and I received weekly personalised feedback from a professional translator on how I could improve my own work to such a standard.

Organisation is key! The process is very rewarding and enjoyable, but do make your time more fluid by keeping yourself organised and using a diary to track weekly objectives.

Commuting from home

I commuted from Kent, where I live, so I didn't spend too much time in the area. Nonetheless, for commuters, the location is very accessible and easy to get to using South Eastern services. Train services also run very regularly to Kings Cross, so being a commuter whilst studying was not an issue.

Knowledgable teaching

Goldsmiths was the perfect place to broaden my horizons, not only academically but also as a person. I enjoyed the lectures, which were always interesting and given by knowledgeable and encouraging and entertaining teachers (I'll always remember the one who bought Madeleines as we were discussing Proust's Swann's Way). I got to meet some people who made the journey easier and more fun.

Luis' favourite parts of studying in London

Being able to walk from Goldsmiths to the north of London, such a beautiful walk. When studying at Goldsmiths I also started going to CrossFit to The Yard in Peckham and Arc in Borough as it was close enough to go after (or before) uni. Now I couldn't live without going every week!

Life after graduating

After finishing my MA in Translation, I took up French and I am now finalising a PhD proposal. I've been also looking for jobs, and although I haven't found anything in publishing or journalism (what I'd really like to do), I will soon be interviewed for a position as a Spanish Teacher in a school.

When studying at Goldsmiths, prioritise active participation, engage with professors, and manage your time wisely. Take advantage of London's vibrant environment, explore the city, and build a supportive network. Balance your lifestyle, seek internships, and plan for your future career, making the most of this enriching experience.

Entry requirements

You should have a minimum of 2:2 (or equivalent) in a subject relevant to the programme or relevant equivalent experience. 

You will also need to provide a personal statement (in English) in which you describe:

• why you are applying to the MA Translation and what you hope to achieve if successful
• your native or near-native fluency in at least one other language in addition to English. You should describe: any translations you may have undertaken and the purpose and context in which you undertook these; any experience you have of reading, speaking and writing in at least one other language in addition to English; and/or any relevant academic, professional or voluntary work experience. You may wish to attach any samples of writing in at least one other language in addition to English and/or any translations you may have produced
• your assessment of your ability to translate into the language in which you are dominant from the language(s) you have learned in addition to your native language

International qualifications

We accept a wide range of international qualifications. Find out more about the qualifications we accept from around the world.

If English isn’t your first language, you will need an IELTS score (or equivalent English language qualification ) of 6.5 overall (and a minimum of 5.5 in each area) to study this programme. If you need assistance with your English language, we offer a range of courses that can help prepare you for postgraduate-level study .

Fees, funding & scholarships

Annual tuition fees.

These are the fees for students starting their programme in the 2024/2025 academic year.

• Home - full-time: £10350
• Home - part-time: £5175
• International - full-time: £17690

If your fees are not listed here, please check our postgraduate fees guidance or contact the Fees Office , who can also advise you about how to pay your fees.

It’s not currently possible for international students to study part-time under a student visa. If you think you might be eligible to study part-time while being on another visa type, please contact our Admissions Team for more information.

If you are looking to pay your fees please see our guide to making a payment .

Additional costs

In addition to your tuition fees, you'll be responsible for any additional costs associated with your course, such as buying stationery and paying for photocopying. You can find out more about what you need to budget for on our study costs page .

There may also be specific additional costs associated with your programme. This can include things like paying for field trips or specialist materials for your assignments. Please check the programme specification for more information.

Funding opportunities

Find out more about postgraduate fees and explore funding opportunities . If you're applying for funding, you may be subject to an application deadline.

Scholarships

This programme is eligible for one of the department's fee waivers. Find out more about how to apply.

How to apply

You apply directly to Goldsmiths using our online application system. 

Before submitting your application you’ll need to have:

• Details of  your academic qualifications
• The  email address of your referee  who we can request a reference from, or alternatively a copy of your academic reference
• Copies of  your educational transcripts   or certificates
• Why you are applying to the MA Translation and what you hope to achieve if successful
• Your native or near-native fluency in at least one other language in addition to English. You should describe: any translations you may have undertaken and the purpose and context in which you undertook these; any experience you have of reading, speaking and writing in at least one other language in addition to English; and/or any relevant academic, professional or voluntary work experience. You may wish to attach any samples of writing in at least one other language in addition to English and/or any translations you may have produced
• Your assessment of your ability to translate into the language in which you are dominant from the language(s) you have learned in addition to your native language

You'll be able to save your progress at any point and return to your application by logging in using your username/email and password.

When to apply

We accept applications from October for students wanting to start the following September. 

We encourage you to complete your application as early as possible, even if you haven't finished your current programme of study. It's very common to be offered a place that is conditional on you achieving a particular qualification. 

Late applications will only be considered if there are spaces available.

If you're applying for funding, you may be subject to an earlier application deadline. 

Selection process

As part of the selection process, you may be invited to an informal interview with the Programme Convenor.

Find out more about applying .

Translation work experience placements

Students taking the ‘Translation work experience’ module as one of their Spring optional choices will benefit from the opportunity to apply for a 10-week work experience placement with an external organisation or to create their own 10-week translation work experience programme that best suits their career development plans. Students are encouraged to opt for a remote-working telecommuting work experience placement that best reflects the professional translator’s own working patterns, establishing links with clients, developing translations, and submitting work remotely, through the Internet. This module is supported by a series of on-campus sessions designed to help students problem-solve, project manage, and identify skills-development opportunities throughout their work experience placement.

While not all work experience placements may be available every year, and new ones may be introduced, the following are some of the opportunities translation students may wish to consider:

European Forum for Restorative Justice

The  European Forum for Restorative Justice (EFRJ) aims to help establish and develop victim-offender mediation and other restorative justice practices. The EFRJ focuses on the application of restorative justice to criminal matters but other areas, such as family, school and community mediation, are not excluded.

The EFRJ offers remote-working translation work experience placements to students translating out of English and into any European language.

Better Shifting

Bettershifting.com helps users with their Di2 bike installation, questions, and problems. Di2 is a Shimano technology that enables electronic shifting on high-end road bikes, mountain bikes, gravel bikes, and e-bikes.

While installation of new bike components usually isn’t that complicated, the Shimano manuals aren’t that easy to find. BetterShifting.com helps by explaining the installation steps in a way that’s easy to understand, answers questions on compatibility between different Di2 parts, and help users maintain their Di2 bikes.

Besides the hardware components that make up the bicycles, there’s also the software side of things. Shimano’s mobile app and its quirks are explained on the site, as well as how to update firmware and change settings on Di2 bikes.

BetterShifting.com offers remote-working translation work experience placements to students translating out of English and into French, German, Italian or Spanish. Other language pairs may be available on request.

Open Art Association

Open Art Association  is a non-profit cultural organisation and its mission is to contribute to social transformation through art and culture. Open Art offers remote-working work experience placements to students translating out of Spanish into English and/or English into Spanish.

Open Art es una asociación cultural sin fines de lucro comprometida con la creatividad, la interculturalidad y la solidaridad con el objetivo de levantar puentes entre culturas a través del arte y la intervención social. Trabajamos con entidades nacionales e internacionales buscando que nuestras obras lleguen cada vez a más público. Nuestros proyectos audiovisuales de enorme valor artístico y social han tenido gran impacto internacional. Videovalores por ejemplo reúne 44 cortometrajes, 32 participantes, 15 países.

Talking Drugs

TalkingDrugs (TD)  is an online, multilingual and global platform for the discussion of drug policy and drug-related issues from around the world. TD delivers geographically diverse coverage, providing opinions and analysis often lacking in mainstream media. TD is managed by registered charity Release , the UK’s centre of expertise on drugs, the law and human rights.

TD offers remote-working translation work experience placements to students translating out of English and into French, Spanish, Portuguese, or Russian. Other language pairs may be available on request.

The MA in Translation provides you with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in translation. The interdisciplinary optional module choices allow you to tailor your studies according to your career plans. Through fortnightly academic and professional development workshops, guided mentoring and regular practical translation assignments, you'll develop professional behaviours, project management and leadership skills to build your translation portfolio and prepare for the translation industry. 

This degree will equip graduates with the skills and expertise to compete for work as professional translators across the public and private sectors, both in the UK and abroad. The possibility of taking optional modules from other departments means that you can supplement your translator training with knowledge of the arts, media, communications, marketing and publishing industries, based on your career goals.

As part of the programme, and through our memberships of the ITI, GALA and APTIS, and affiliation with Phrase TMS and XTRF, you will build the requisite translation skills and professional competencies to make the most of opportunities to engage with representatives from across the language service industry, from translation agencies and multinational corporations where translations are commissioned or where in-house translators are employed, to international organisations with in-house translation departments, freelance translators and other language professionals.

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Personal Statement Pro Forma

Download our pro forma to add to your application.

Your personal statement helps us decide whether you are right for the MSc in Translation Studies but, just as importantly, it helps us decide whether this programme is right for you.

To help you, we've created a Personal Statement Pro Forma, which should be uploaded to your application as an additional supporting document.

You'll see that you need to demonstrate awareness of what the study of translation is and indicate the languages you wish to take – a maximum of two.

You will always translate into and out of English.

Take me the postgraduate study page to see the list of languages offered

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Personal Statements

Preparing a well-written and effective personal statement (sometimes referred to as statements of purpose or personal essays) that clearly articulates your preparation, goals, and motivation for pursuing that specific graduate degree is critically important. You will need to spend a considerable amount of time and effort in crafting these statements. The focus, structure, and length of personal statements vary from program to program. Some will have prompts or questions you need to answer, while others will leave the topic open-ended. The length varies widely as well. Read instructions carefully and make sure to adhere to all parameters laid out in the application guidelines.

Clear writing is the result of clear thinking. The first and most important task is to decide on a message. Consider carefully which two or three points you wish to impress upon the reader, remembering that your audience is composed of academics who are experts in their fields. Your statement should show that you are able to think logically and express your thoughts in a clear and concise manner. Remember that the reader already has a record of your activities and your transcript; avoid simply restating your resume and transcript. Writing your statement will take time; start early and give yourself more than enough time for revisions. If no prompts are given, you can use the questions below to begin brainstorming content to include in your statement; for more information, see our Writing Personal Statement presentation Prezi  and our three-minute video on Writing Personal Statements .

• What experiences and academic preparation do you have that are relevant to the degree you’re seeking?
• Why are you choosing to pursue a graduate degree at this time?
• Why do you want to pursue this particular degree and how will this degree and the specific program fit into your career plans and your long-term goals?
• What specific topics are you aiming to explore and what does the current literature say about those topics?

After you’ve written a first draft, start the work of editing, refining, simplifying, and polishing. Provide specific examples that will help illustrate your points and convey your interests, intentions, and motivations. Is any section, sentence, or word superfluous, ambiguous, apologetic, or awkward? Are your verbs strong and active? Have you removed most of the qualifiers? Are you sure that each activity or interest you mention supports one of your main ideas? Spelling and grammatical errors are inexcusable. Don’t rely on spell-check to catch all errors; read your statement aloud and have it reviewed by multiple people whose opinion you trust. If possible, have your statement reviewed by a writing tutor. For individual assistance with writing your personal statement, consult with the writing tutor in your residential college  or the Writing Center within the Yale Center for Teaching and Learning .

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Example Of Graduate School Translation Program Personal Statement

Type of paper: Personal Statement

Topic: Education , Business , Culture , Translation , English , China , World , City

Published: 02/13/2020

ORDER PAPER LIKE THIS

Perhaps it is a little bit clichéd today, but the world is increasingly interconnected. Modern, affordable air travel has increased people’s capacity to travel to far-off lands for both business and pleasure. Furthermore, the rise of the Internet has facilitated contact and communication with diverse cultures, which not too long ago would have seemed impossible. Finally, the British Empire, and its successor in global hegemony the United States of America, along with Hollywood and the Internet have cemented the use of English as a lingua franca in International affairs and business. Despite the rise of English, significant portions of the world still conduct business, manufacturing, and enterprise in a myriad of languages. Professional translators facilitate business with emerging markets and allow for the movement of novel goods and professional services between borders. Recently I graduated university with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, with a concentration in marketing. My bachelor’s degree provided me with a firm foundation in the business world. While working in various internships and with many individuals, I developed a love of language, and its finer utilization. Furthermore, during those internships I learned the value of good international communication. While China is still developing, it is without a doubt a major economic engine in the modern world. It is necessary to have competent professional translators available in order to simplify transactions between Chinese and English speaking professionals. The importance of the professional translator cannot be overstated. Lay bilingual individuals may attempt to translate between people or documents, but they often lack technical aptitude in both languages and the translation may be inaccurate at best. Translation could be performed by computer services such as Google Translate, however, machines lack an understanding of the nuances of language and it is often self-evident that a computer performed the translation. Computer translation often means that two people are conversing at each other rather than with each other, with the contextual basis of the language being lost and inappropriately literal use of words being the norm. Thus, the importance of the professional translator exists in order to perform a good and clean translation that can be relied upon by both parties in a transaction. My background in business has enriched my vocabulary and will allow me to utilize important and nuanced trade words which otherwise might get lost in translation. One of the main draws of the M.S. in Translation program being offered by NYU is the program’s location in New York City. Most courses that lead towards a degree in translation are online. A live course in New York City provides a great opportunity to learn substantive and practical skills in translation. New York City is the world’s capital, with major corporations from all over the world maintaining operations in the City. The United Nations and the multitude of international diplomatic missions that support it are also located in the city. New York City remains the dream destination for a substantial part of the world and the international presence in New York City is world renown. The need for good translators is felt very acutely due to its status as a center of world finance and business, as well as the extensive amounts of diplomacy that takes place within its confines. Languages have always been a great passion of mine. In China I worked as a private English tutor, teaching children and adults alike an appreciation for the fluidity and power of the English language. Furthermore, while studying in University, I took two years of Japanese language courses in which I achieved excellent marks. I also took a class entitled Language and Society in East Asia, as well as Cross-Cultural Business Communication. These courses taught me about the power of language to shape a culture, and also the necessity of culturally sensitive communication between varying business cultures. My ultimate goals are to provide excellent, culturally sensitive, precise, and contextually accurate translations. My native understanding of China, my immersion in the business world, and all my prior experiences will contribute to the M.S. in Translation program by allowing me to explain different concepts to colleagues and classmates alike. My love of languages drives me to ponder the meaning of words ad infinitum so I can understand their usage in the many settings that they may appear. The types of positions that would be made available to me with a professional qualification in translation are too many to count. Chinese to English translation would allow me to work with international businesses and organizations. This is important work given the rise of China as an economic powerhouse. In the business setting, I would be able to provide translations that promote innovative and new products into both markets, or help in the creation of global marketing campaigns. International organizations would allow me to stimulate cultural and societal links that will increase global understanding and potentially forward the lofty cause of international goodwill. Another possibility would be to work for diplomatic organizations such as the United Nations, where my work would be relied upon to aid the completion of International Treaties and the facilitation of programs that lead to the betterment of humanity. A final possibility would be to remain in the academic setting. Academia appeals to me because it would be possible to influence future generations of global thinkers and impress upon them the beauty of the English language and the magnificence of Chinese language and culture.

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Personal Statement for MA Interpreting and Translating in University of Bath

TOEFL, IELTS, Personal Statement and CV Proofreading Services. › Statement of Purpose with samples › Personal Statement for MA Interpreting and Translating in University of Bath

Out of both my keen interest in English and my gift in language studies, I have been performing quite well in English since my childhood. Deeply influenced by Zhang Lu, the chief translator of President Hu Jintao and Premier Wen Jiabao, I enjoy the charm of English interpreting and wish to be an interpreter like her. So, naturally I chose English as my professional orientation when being enrolled in Jilin University in 2014. Through my college studies, my spark of passion for English translating was ignited which never withered but kept thriving with each passing day. Therefore, after deliberation, I made my decision to obtain more systematic know-how of English translating and interpreting by pursuing further study of it on a higher-level platform.

I believe I have made adequate preparation both academically and non-academically for more challenges of future study. In retrospect, as I spared no efforts in studying all the specialized courses offered by the university, I have established a comprehensive English knowledge framework, drawn a clear picture of the values, culture, history, traditions as well as other general knowledge about western countries, and thus laid a solid theoretical foundation for English related practice. As a result of my diligence and effective way of learning, I have earned high marks in most of the major courses, and obtained the Certificate of TEM-4(Test of English Majors – Band 4), TEM-8, CATTI Secondary Translation Certificate, BEC Advanced Certificate and so forth. Conscientious study has won me the third-class scholarship in the 2017-2018 academic year, and more importantly, built up my expertise in understanding the Chinese and English languages, cultures and customs. All this gives me greater confidence in my interpretative work in future.

In addition to the above, as I wished to engage in interpreting after graduation, I participated in much activities on it in my spare time to deepen my understanding of this profession and thus better prepare for future career. It was worth mentioning that I participated in the school-level research project with the topic of A Comparative Study of New Words in English and Chinese Networks. This topic focused on English-Chinese new words appearing in the Internet and major newspapers and periodicals media from 2000 to 2017, and their corresponding English-Chinese translations, which aimed to enable English learners to better understand the similarities and differences between the English and Chinese new words, more clearly grasp the characteristics of Eastern and Western cultures, and also provide inspiration for English-Chinese translation. During the process, I realized that a translator cannot close himself and was always ready to accept new things from outside world and update knowledge all the time. Besides, my graduation thesis A Study on Ray Huang as Self-translator–In the Case of 1587, A Year of No Significance analyzed and evaluated the original and translated versions and finally got a high score of 87 in graduation reply. Through the academic research, I think I have equipped with the abilities of being a good translator, such as serious attitude towards translation, critical thinking as well as the ability to process masteries efficiently. Under this circumstance, I believe I am getting closer to a professional and qualified interpreter.

I always cherish the idea that one should learn to meet practical needs. So, in my work in Songyuan Foreign Language School as an English teaching assistant, I tried hard to grasp every opportunity to enhance my practical intelligence and improve my interpreting skills. My main work was to translate between foreign teachers and students in class. So many times of modification in lesson plans, so much effort in preparation before class, so much practice in attention to my language, manners, teaching methods, etc., all these experiences have witnessed me growing from a green hand who only knew about teaching and interpreting theories to an experienced interpreter who has made some achievements. I appreciate this experience quite much not only because it gave me a practical experience of being an interpreter, but through all the preparations, challenges, exchanges with colleagues, interactions with students, etc., I was able to be more mature, sedate and professional. More importantly, it made me realize that to be a qualified interpreter, one should never stop pursuing excellence, which encouraged me to march forward on this path.

Upon graduation from you, I will return China and seek a position as an inter-office conference interpreter at HUAWEI with all the expertise I will have obtained from your program in the next five to eight years, and then work as a freelance translator for the public service industry, aiming to continuously improve my interpreting practice while interpreting for large international conferences.

With my theoretical foundation in English study, my experience in English interpreting, my strong passion for interpreting as well as my burning desire for further self-improvement, I believe I am just one of the appropriate candidates of your program, and I am confident that my education experience at your university will empower me to turn my vision into reality. Therefore, I sincerely wish you dear committee to approve my application and grant me a chance for further progress. Thank you.

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Translation: Translation and Culture MA

London, Bloomsbury

Develop practical language, translation and technology skills while studying one or more languages. The Translation: Translation and Culture MA gives you key experience of translation as well as critical skills needed to apply your knowledge to professional or academic career paths. Taught at UCL, you’ll learn from specialist translation experts while enjoying access to the diverse resources and networking opportunities in multicultural London. 

UK tuition fees (2024/25)

Overseas tuition fees (2024/25), programme starts, applications accepted.

Applications open

• Entry requirements

A minimum of a first or high upper second-class Bachelor's degree (average 65%) in a relevant discipline from a UK university, or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard. Students should only translate out of a language in which they have an advanced level minimum and should only translate into a language in which they have native-level proficiency (language combinations subject to availability).

The English language level for this programme is: Level 4

UCL Pre-Master's and Pre-sessional English courses are for international students who are aiming to study for a postgraduate degree at UCL. The courses will develop your academic English and academic skills required to succeed at postgraduate level.

Further information can be found on our English language requirements page.

Equivalent qualifications

Country-specific information, including details of when UCL representatives are visiting your part of the world, can be obtained from the International Students website .

International applicants can find out the equivalent qualification for their country by selecting from the list below. Please note that the equivalency will correspond to the broad UK degree classification stated on this page (e.g. upper second-class). Where a specific overall percentage is required in the UK qualification, the international equivalency will be higher than that stated below. Please contact Graduate Admissions should you require further advice.

About this degree

In addition to a range of translation options covering theoretical and technological topics, you can focus on one or more languages, gaining practical experience of translation and the critical and analytical skills required for research and employment. The final dissertation project provides an opportunity to showcase your translation interests and abilities in an extended annotated translation. 

Optional advanced translation modules are available to students in the following languages: Dutch, Chinese, French, German, Hebrew, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, Scandinavian languages, and Spanish. We also offer optional modules with language-specific strands (subject to availability). The individual modules listed below outline the available languages and usually include a wide range of European languages as well as Arabic, Chinese, Korean, Japanese and Russian. We are also able to offer Ukrainian (subject to availability - please contact the MA director).

Who this course is for

The programme is particularly suitable for graduates with a language and culture degree who wish to develop practical translation skills in more than one language, along with an understanding of theoretical aspects of translation, for professional development or further research in this field. A sound knowledge of at least one language other than English is essential.

What this course will give you

Located in the heart of multicultural London, UCL provides a uniquely rich environment for studying and researching translation in all its facets. Students are taught by specialist translation staff with a diverse range of research interests including translation and the web, theatre translation, and Chinese translation.

The MA is truly interdisciplinary, with access to experts in an unrivalled variety of languages and disciplines from across Europe and further afield. This allows students to customise their own programmes in relation to their language competencies and other academic and professional interests.

UCL translation students are highly valued by the translation industry, with workshops and networking events organised during the year.

The foundation of your career

Former students have gone on to work as translators for companies such as KPMG, SDL International and Alpha CRC; some have set up their own translation business. Graduates also acquire transferable skills that lead them into successful careers in publishing, media, finance, fashion, PR and education; examples include our graduates who are now working for Newsweek, the British Library, Morgan Stanley, Sainsbury's and Deloitte.

Employability

There is an ever-growing demand for highly-trained commercial, literary and other types of translators in the private as well as in the public sector and in international organisations, in Britain and abroad. The programme provides graduates with a range of vocational skills that enable them to pursue successful careers in the fields of translation and interpreting. Other career paths include the media, publishing and education.

Our location offers students access to special collections in modern languages and culture at UCL and other world-class libraries nearby such as Senate House and the British Library. 

These resources, besides their collections of books, articles, videos, sound recordings and non-public online resources, offer a wide range of seminars, lecture series and other opportunities to exchange ideas. Other libraries and research centres within walking distance of campus include the British Museum, Institute of Languages, Cultures and Societies, Institute of Historical Research and The Warburg Institute.

UCL Careers also offers a range of services, providing access to skills development, recruitment and networking events.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, practical translation exercises, case studies, tutorials, and private study, depending on the options chosen. The third term is devoted to revision sessions and the dissertation project. 

A 15-credit module is equivalent to 150 hours of study and a 30-credit module is equivalent to 300 hours. This includes contact time, private study and the undertaking of coursework assignments.

Students are assessed by a variety of methods. The core modules are assessed by essays and coursework. Optional modules are assessed through unseen and written examination, coursework, translation projects and essays. Teaching sessions are interactive, with a limited amount of lecturer presentation and an emphasis on student participation and critical discussion.

For a full-time postgraduate course we recommend around 20-25 hours of independent study a week. The majority of our courses have around 10-12 hours of formal teaching time which you will spend in lectures and seminars.

For a part-time postgraduate course your contact hours would usually be 5-6 a week across 2-3 days and we would recommend around 10-12 hours of independent study a week.

15 credit modules involve 150 learning hours, 30 credit modules involve 300 hours. Approximately one-third of the hours are allocated for the assessment exercise. The remainder is divided between class time and private reading. Hours expected to be dedicated to private reading far exceed the hours of class attendance. You should therefore be careful to ensure that you are setting aside enough time for reading.

A Postgraduate Diploma (120 credits) is also available).

You will undertake modules to the value of 180 credits, including two core modules and the dissertation module. Optional modules are chosen from a wide offering in consultation with the programme director to ensure your workload is balanced between terms.

During the academic year, you will take compulsory modules which are designed to work as a postgraduate-level foundation and provide you with the specific skills to research, write essays and the dissertation. You will also choose optional modules from the suggested list (see Optional modules). In addition to your taught modules, you will start formulating your dissertation proposal. This work will continue into term three and across the remainder of the academic year. You will develop your dissertation outline and structure with support from your supervisor.

You will undertake modules to the value of 180 credits, including two core modules and the dissertation module. Optional modules are chosen from a wide offering in consultation with the programme director to ensure your workload is balanced across the two years if studying part-time.

In year one you will take compulsory modules, which are designed to work as a postgraduate-level foundation module and to provide you with the specific skills to research, write essays and the dissertation. These modules set the foundation for the whole MA, preparing you for further learning and for your dissertation.

In year two you will take optional modules to develop a broader understanding of theoretical, technological and language topics. As well as developing key concepts learnt in year one. You will also formulate and develop your dissertation outline and structure with support from your supervisor. You will then spend the summer of year two researching and writing your dissertation on a topic to be determined in discussion with your supervisor.

Compulsory modules

Optional modules.

Please note that the list of modules given here is indicative. This information is published a long time in advance of enrolment and module content and availability are subject to change. Modules that are in use for the current academic year are linked for further information. Where no link is present, further information is not yet available.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits. Upon successful completion of 180 credits, you will be awarded an MA in Translation: Translation and Culture. Upon successful completion of 120 credits, you will be awarded a PG Dip in Translation: Translation and Culture.

Accessibility

Details of the accessibility of UCL buildings can be obtained from AccessAble accessable.co.uk . Further information can also be obtained from the UCL Student Support and Wellbeing team .

21 May 2024

TransCluster (216-220 Foster Court, Gower Street) - Open day

Translation Studies MA/MSc Information Session

18:00 — 19:00

Are you interested in an MA/MSc in Translation at CenTraS@UCL? Join us on campus for an open evening, even if your language pair is not listed on the website.

Fees and funding

Fees for this course.

The tuition fees shown are for the year indicated above. Fees for subsequent years may increase or otherwise vary. Where the programme is offered on a flexible/modular basis, fees are charged pro-rata to the appropriate full-time Master's fee taken in an academic session. Further information on fee status, fee increases and the fee schedule can be viewed on the UCL Students website: ucl.ac.uk/students/fees .

Additional costs

All full time students are required to pay a fee deposit of £1,000 for this programme. All part-time students are required to pay a fee deposit of £500.

Additional costs may include expenses such as books, stationery, printing or photocopying, or conference registration fees.

The department strives to keep additional costs low. Books and journal articles are usually available via the UCL library (hard copies or via e-journal subscriptions).

For more information on additional costs for prospective students please go to our estimated cost of essential expenditure at Accommodation and living costs .

Funding your studies

For a comprehensive list of the funding opportunities available at UCL, including funding relevant to your nationality, please visit the Scholarships and Funding website .

Students are advised to apply as early as possible due to competition for places. Those applying for scholarship funding (particularly overseas applicants) should take note of application deadlines.

There is an application processing fee for this programme of £90 for online applications and £115 for paper applications. Further information can be found at Application fees .

When we assess your application we would like to learn:

• why you want to study Translation: Translation and Culture graduate level
• why you want to study Translation: Translation and Culture at UCL
• what particularly attracts you to this programme
• how your personal, academic and professional background meets the demands of this programme
• where you would like to go professionally with your degree

Together with essential academic requirements, the personal statement is your opportunity to illustrate whether your reasons for applying to this programme match what the programme will deliver.

Please note that you may submit applications for a maximum of two graduate programmes (or one application for the Law LLM) in any application cycle.

Choose your programme

Please read the Application Guidance before proceeding with your application.

Year of entry: 2024-2025

Got questions get in touch.

Centre for Multidisciplinary and Intercultural Inquiry

[email protected]

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English/french personal statement example.

"If we spoke a different language, we would perceive a somewhat different world." This quote by Ludwig Wittgenstein reflects exactly how and why I feel so passionate about the many languages around the world. I believe that every language allows you to look upon the world through the eyes of that language. My fascination towards English, Turkish and French, in particular, is closely related to this. I believe that every language, besides helping us communicate, helps us understand the people of that language. I also believe that there are some hidden perspectives behind communication thus making you observe a completely different world. This is why I want to become a translator and/or interpreter. So I can unearth this hidden perspective that the spoken or written language is concealing from us. I am bilingual speaker of both English and Turkish thus I have experienced life through the eyes of both cultures. I believe that knowing more than one language help you see different things that

speakers of other languages may not see. Ever since I could talk I was translating and interpreting for my mother, who can only speak Turkish. With this I have found that I have fun interpreting for others and I understood that I would enjoy doing this as a job therefore I decided to pick interpreting and translating as a profession. My main inspiration for wanting to study translation and interpretation is connected to the beauty of the languages. English, Turkish and French has always intrigued me like no other language has. I also see languages as the building blocks of communication and interaction between civilisations and that the more you know the more you can communicate with others. English, Turkish and French literatures have also inspired me to learn the language as well as motivating me for the future. I believe it's better to read a book in its original language. English, Turkish and French all three of these languages are so rich in their vocabulary that I have always been interested in exploring different meanings of the same word. I have always enjoyed being able to express the same feeling or thought in numerous other ways. Life is a challenge in itself but I always like to have that bit of more challenge in life to keep my motivation and hard work in order to succeed. To me especially interpreting is a challenge. I have always been amazed at people who do simultaneous interpretation and I wish to become one myself. Over the past years I have been working in multiple places doing translation from English to Turkish and Turkish to English. This has not only made me more interested with Translation but it has also helped me improve my linguistic ability both in English and Turkish. I want to continue my studies in the UK for many reasons. Not only is it a good opportunity, but also with the UK being so close to France it will provide me with the opportunity to travel to France on regular occasions to practise my French. I have lived in the UK before therefore I will not have any problems with adapting and making new friends. Studying translation and interpretation in university will not only allow me to practice translating and interpreting as a job but in the future if I wish I could also become a teacher or branch out to other aspects of work which require the use of multiple languages. With the many opportunities that come with knowing a new language, one can do many things. Knowing both English and Turkish has truly made life easier in many aspects and I believe that knowing another language such as French, which is now one of the most spoken languages in the world, will open many more doors. The world is becoming one big village and the need for translators and interpreters increase every day. Given the opportunity I wish to be part of this village helping people to better communicate.

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This personal statement was written by raif367 for application in 2011.

raif367's Comments

I believe it is good, after all İ was accepted to 3 universities but I would love to hear your thoughts and ideas on how I could improve it :)

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