This course aims to develop the techniques and core skills required to be a professional translator alongside a knowledge of the international business environment and operations. This combination is particularly suitable for graduate-level linguists for whom a career in either translation or international business might be attractive.
Your core modules include specialised translation into and out of English in one of the following languages: Arabic, Mandarin Chinese, French, German, and Spanish. Or into English from two of the above languages.
In addition to core and elective modules you will also attend keynote lectures and seminars on specialised translation and business practice delivered by invited professionals in the field.
Topics and documents relate to fields covered in professional translation, such as economics, transport, telecommunications, medicine and international organisations.
MA Translating with International Business will develop the techniques required for translation in an increasingly competitive and computer-oriented professional environment.
The full-time course initially involves two semesters' tuition (generating 120 credits). If you successfully complete this stage of the course you will be eligible to receive a Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip). To complete the course to MA level, this is then followed by a 60 credit dissertation (of approximately 15,000 words).
Semester 1
You will take three core modules, the Specialised Translation with Translation Technology and Principles of Translation practice and research modules are continued right through semester 2. There is also one module option to choose (which is continued through semester 2).
Specialised Translation with Translation Technology (30 credits)
You will apply the techniques and strategies involved in translating different types of texts (expository, narrative, argumentative, vocative) with different degrees of specialisation, in a range of subject matters, either from two languages into English or one language into and out of English at a professional level.
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Principles of Translation Practice and Research (30 credits)
You will develop an advanced methodological background to the practice of translation, reflect on the process of translation and the constraints of genre, foster analysis of source texts using theoretical insights and gain an understanding of a range of translation/interpreting research methodologies.
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International Business Environment (15 credits)
This module will prepare you for a career in international business, providing you with a sound understanding of the specific market environments in which companies operate. It focuses on international trade and regulation, environmental scanning, the politico-legal, economic, socio-cultural and technological environments, and national competitive advantage.
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Plus one module from:
Business and Community Interpreting (30 credits)
This module prepares you for work as a bilateral interpreter in a business and community/public service context through advanced note taking, bi-cultural skills and terminology research techniques, enabling you to analyse the ideas and the information conveyed in dialogues or group discussions and to mediate successfully between speakers of different languages.
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Terminology and Translation Project Management (30 credits)
You will acquire a systematic understanding of the theoretical framework of terminology and translation project management, using terminology management and industry-standard translation software. You will advance your competence in the practice of translation and quality assurance and manage a translation project through a professional simulation exercise.
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Semester 2
You will continue two core modules and your chosen module option from semester 1, and take another core module.
Specialised Translation with Translation Technology (30 credits)
You will explore the techniques and strategies involved in translating different types of texts (expository, narrative, argumentative, vocative) with different degrees of specialisation, in a range of subject matters, either from two languages into English or one language into and out of English at a professional level.
close
Principles of Translation Practice and Research (30 credits)
You will develop an advanced methodological background to the practice of translation, reflect on the process of translation and the constraints of genre, foster analysis of source texts using theoretical insights and gain an understanding of a range of translation/interpreting research methodologies.
close
International Business Operations (15 credits)
This module will prepare you for a career in international business, providing you with a sound understanding of the processes by which companies enter various markets. It focuses on strategic and operational planning, market assessment, the multinational enterprise, risk, competitive strategies, international management and cross-cultural communications.
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Plus one module (continued from semester 1) from:
Business and Community Interpreting (30 credits)
This module prepares you for work as a bilateral interpreter in a business and community/public service context through advanced note taking, bi-cultural skills and terminology research techniques, enabling you to analyse the ideas and the information conveyed in dialogues or group discussions and to mediate successfully between speakers of different languages.
close
Terminology and Translation Project Management (30 credits)
You will acquire a systematic understanding of the theoretical framework of terminology and translation project management, using terminology management and industry-standard translation software. You will advance your competence in the practice of translation and quality assurance and manage a translation project through a professional simulation exercise.
close
Semester 3
For the full Masters qualification
Select one from:
12-15,000 word dissertation.
You will undertake a sustained piece of writing on an approved topic from within the discipline of translation/interpreting studies, demonstrating knowledge and understanding through reflection on theoretical issues and their application in translation practice.
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or
12-15,000 word project (60 credits).
You will complete an extended translation of a highly specialised nature (approximately 6,000 words), demonstrating an ability to work to a translator's brief and apply translation methodology, and providing your commentary (approximately 6,000 words).
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For the part-time study option:
Year 1
- Specialised Translation with Translation Technology (30 credits)
- Principles of Translation Practice and Research (30 credits)
Year 2, Semester 1
- International Business Environment (15 credits)
Plus one from:
- Business and Community Interpreting (30 credits)
- Terminology and Translation Project Management (30 credits)
Year 2, Semester 2
- International Business Operations (15 credits)
Continuing one from:
- Business and Community Interpreting (30 credits)
- Terminology and Translation Project Management (30 credits)
Year 2, Semester 3
For the full Masters qualification
- Dissertation or Project (60 credits)
