MA in Translation

This MA is a distance-learning Masters programme for aspiring or practising translators. It is suitable for Modern Languages graduates offering any one or two of the following languages, in addition to English: Czech, French, German, Italian, Mandarin, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish. The MA combines intensive language-specific practice with training in the theory and practice of translation.

You will study interactively, as part of an online group, led by a tutor. The programme is taught entirely online and you are not expected to come to campus at all. However, you are just as much a member of the University as any other student and we are always delighted to welcome you to Bristol if you can get here.

Online group discussion means that we have a very lively and supportive learning community. If you need help on a one-to-one basis, tutors can support you in a number of different ways, using Skype, phone or email.

The University has close links with professional associations and helps students take advantage of internships in the EU and the UK where possible.

Diploma level

You must complete six taught units.

• Applied Translation in one of the available languages
• Introduction to Specialised Translation in one of the available languages
• Theories of Translation 1

Up to two further units from:

• Applied Translation
• Introduction to Specialised Translation

• Computer-Assisted Translation
• Theories of Translation 2
• The Translation Industry

Please note that not all units may be offered in any one year and others may be substituted.

Masters level

The MA unit is open to any student who has successfully completed the Diploma part of the course with an average mark of 50 per cent or above. In order to obtain the MA, you must complete an annotated translation into English of a previously untranslated text of approximately 10,000 words in the original, or a dissertation on an aspect of literary translation or translation theory.