The MA is designed for native speakers of Chinese who have a high level of competence in English and wish to develop this further. It is also open to speakers of other languages than English and Chinese who have a high level of competence in both English and Chinese. The MA combines the theoretical, technological and practical training necessary for effective translation between English and Chinese. It also offers training and practice in bi-lateral interpreting between the two languages. The programme is structured around a range of compulsory and elective modules. The compulsory modules provide the core skills and knowledge needed for translation and interpreting across a wide range of subjects, including the basic concepts of translation and interpreting theory.

Special features

The degree aims to train students who already possess high-level English and Mandarin language skills to professional levels of competence in interpreting and translation. Graduates from the course will be capable of interpreting across a wide range of subjects involving dialogues at specialist consultations and presentations by consecutive mode. Subject to performance in Semester 1, students will have the practice in simultaneous interpreting. Graduates will be capable of translating across a wide range of subjects and have a sound conceptual understanding of the material being translated.

The course will raise students' language skills to a higher level, introduce students to interpreting and translation theory, new technologies for translating and interpreting, key concepts of economics and business, technology, the media and culture. Students will also have the opportunity to continue a second foreign language from intermediate level. Teaching will be enhanced with input from professional and experienced interpreters and translators.