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    MA PG Certificate PG Diploma
    2025 start September 

    Translation Studies

    School of Languages and Cultures, Faculty of Arts and Humanities

    Our MA prepares you for a career in translation, including audiovisual translation and localisation. You’ll learn how to use standard strategies, procedures and techniques, including industry-essential translation software in line with the European Masters in Translation (EMT) standards.
    Translation Studies Students

    Course description

    You’ll create a bespoke course within a clear structure that reflects your unique interests and ambitions. The programme also allows you to choose a specialism in Digital Information or Audio Visual Media.

    At Sheffield, you will join a well-established programme in translation and audiovisual studies offering a wide range of translation languages which include Czech, Dutch, French, German, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish into English and English into Chinese and Italian. 

    We will introduce you to key methods and approaches in translation studies and help you develop high level translation skills on this challenging course. The programme covers theories, methods and techniques of translation, introducing you to a range of translation software essential for success in today's translation, subtitling or digital information industries.

    The MA Translation Studies is aimed at people who wish to develop a career in the language services sector to become professional translators, subtitlers, dubbing translators, localisers and project managers.

    The course is also excellent preparation for a PhD in translation studies and related fields. It offers regular practice of advanced practical translation tasks. 

    • You can translate between 1 to 3 languages and English as part of the programme;
    • Create your own bespoke programme through your choice of optional modules in literary approaches, technologies or different translation languages
    • Become part of a professional translation community which has long established connections with Sheffield-based global heavy-weights in the language services industry RWS and ZOO Digital

    You will be equipped with the skills needed for professional work as a translator in industry and for research in translation studies. You will practice translation in specific language pairs and will become conversant with up-to-date translation tools, which are required in the constantly evolving translation industry.

    Visit us on an open day to find out more about the course, our facilities and the city.

    Accreditation

    Our accreditation as a ZOO Academy partner and RWS Campus partner means you'll get free-of-charge access to ZOOdubs and Trados Studio as part of your learning. The top two students studying translation technology will also be awarded a free Trados Studio license for use after they graduate.

    We are a member of the Institute of Translation and Interpreting (ITI) and of the Association of Programmes in Translation and Interpreting Studies of the UK and Ireland (APTIS). Our MA also offers high quality training for translators in line with the European Masters in Translation (EMT) standards.

    Why study Translation and Intercultural Communication Studies at Sheffield?

    Modules

    A selection of modules is available each year - some examples are below. There may be changes before you start your course. From May of the year of entry, formal programme regulations will be available in our Programme Regulations Finder.

    MA Translation Studies has five core modules (75 credits), optional modules (45 credits) and a dissertation (60 credits).

    If you wish, you can choose to use your optional modules to specialise in either Digital Information or Audio Visual Media as described below.

    Technology modules train you in the latest, industry-standard tools, including: WordfastPro, MemoQ, Trados Studio, Alchemy Catalyst, OmegaT, WinCAPS and ZOOdubs.

    Semester one:

    Translation Technologies

    This module is designed to enable students to become conversant with different computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools that are used in professional practice. Students will learn about core perspectives in the use and usefulness of CAT tools and terminology management tools. Students will also receive teaching in relation to the use of Machine Translation and post-editing.

    15 credits
    Concepts and Approaches in Translation Studies

    The aim of this module is to introduce students with an interest in languages and communication to key theoretical approaches in Translation Studies, including theories of equivalence, functionalism, domestication v. foreignisation, comparative syntax and audiovisual translation. This module will give students a solid grounding in translation theory and prepare them for further study in this area and/or relating to other disciplines.

    15 credits
    Research Methods in Modern Languages and Cultures

    This module will introduce and explore a range of methodological approaches and techniques that are relevant to students of Modern Languages and Cultures. It will enable students to identify, assess and exploit sources and data, present the results of their research in (an) appropriate manner(s), and adhere to data protection, intellectual property and ethics requirements. Students will engage with different theoretical models and debates, and a range of tools for accessing information. Students will be required to attend generic research methods sessions as well as those which are of greatest relevance to their research topic(s).

    15 credits
    Translation Skills and Genres 1

    This module aims to enable students to analyse, evaluate and apply appropriate translation theories to the translation of texts whilst developing advanced and professional translation skills in a variety of genres. It aims to equip students with key theoretical approaches and practical strategies for the translation of a wide variety of genres of texts.

    Module aims are: i) To develop skills and expertise in translation strategies between English and one other language. ii) To develop an understanding of practical, professional and theoretical approaches to the translation of different genres of texts. Through a combination of theoretical lectures and language specific seminars students will develop an awareness of issues related to translation and language.

    Students will analyse material from the word to the text level and examine theoretical and practical issues in the translation of authentic Source Language texts.

    Students will examine frequently occurring translation problems and a range of strategies, which can be used to solve them, as well as learn how to justify their choice of strategy.

    This module is normally for students on Masters' programmes in the Faculty of Arts. Students with non-standard experience /qualification may be eligible for this module on successful completion of a translation test.

    15 credits

    Semester two:

    Dissertation - MA in Translation Studies

    The aim of this module is to give students of the MA in Translation Studies the opportunity to research a topic in the field (to be agreed with the dissertation supervisor). They will be expected to put into practice theories, strategies, methods and techniques with which they will have been acquainted while studying the relevant preparatory modules; they may also link their dissertation to a work-placement or work-based project, and in some cases an extended translation, in which case the dissertation approach may be more practice-oriented, drawing on theories. The normal length of the dissertation will be 12-16,000 words.

    60 credits
    Translation Skills and Genres 2

    This module aims to enable students to analyse, evaluate and apply appropriate translation theories to the translation of texts whilst developing advanced and professional translation skills in a variety of genres. It aims to equip students with key theoretical approaches and practical strategies for the translation of a wide variety of genres of texts. Module aims are:
    i. To develop skills and expertise in translation strategies between English and one other language.
    ii. To develop an understanding of practical, professional and theoretical approaches to the translation of different genres of texts.

    Through a combination of theoretical lectures and language specific seminars students will develop an awareness of issues related to translation and language. students will analyse material from the word to the text level and examining theoretical and practical issues in the translation of authentic Source Language texts.
    Students will examine frequently occurring translation problems and a range of strategies, which can be used to solve them, as well as learn how to justify their choice of strategy.

    This module is normally for students on Masters' programmes in the Faculty of Arts. Students with non-standard experience/qualification may be eligible for this module on successful completion of a translation test.

    15 credits

    Either semester:

    Induction and Transition: SLC MA Study Support

    The aim of this module is to give students of the Applied Languages MA Programmes the opportunity to develop the knowledge and skills necessary to complete successfully the requirements of their postgraduate programme, including writing an essay at MA level and undertaking a dissertation in the field (to be agreed with the dissertation supervisor). Students will be introduced to library skills, academic requirements of writing an essay at MA level, referencing conventions, plagiarism issues and autonomous learning. Students will be introduced to the requirements of a dissertation at Sheffield, and follow appropriate support lectures supporting the student in identification of the research area; reading to be undertaken, adopting appropriate methodologies and the development of original ideas and insights.

    The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it's up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research; funding changes; professional accreditation requirements; student or employer feedback; outcomes of reviews; and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we'll consult and inform students in good time and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.

    Open days

    An open day gives you the best opportunity to hear first-hand from our current students and staff about our courses.
    Open days and campus tours

    Duration

    • 1 year full-time
    • 2 years part-time

    Teaching

    There are a variety of teaching and learning methods used on the course, including staff and student led seminars, small group work, and one to one consultations with staff. 

    Translation modules usually have 20 to 22 contact hours with additional independent study over the academic year, but in situations where fewer than six students are registered on the module, this contact time may be reduced and/or the delivery method altered.

    Our accreditation as a ZOO Academy partner and RWS Campus partner means you'll get free-of-charge access to ZOOdubs and Trados Studio as part of your learning. The top two students studying translation technology will also be awarded a free Trados Studio licence for use after they graduate.

    Assessment

    Essays, presentations, practical translation technologies projects, translation assignments, a translation exam and a dissertation. 

    Your career

    Your MA opens up a wide range of career opportunities in translation and related industries. Our graduates have become translators, editors and project managers.

    Recent graduates have gone on to work for employers such as RWS, ZooDigital and TransAction translators, and global corporations and organisations including Google, Amazon, GCHQ, the European Union and the United Nations. 

    Some of our graduates have also set up their own companies or continued onto postgraduate research degrees.

    School

    School of Languages and Cultures

    We're a leading hub for research in modern languages and cultures, translation and intercultural communication.

    Our work spans topics such as identity, gender, politics, film, audiovisual translation, migration, diversity in societies, multilingualism/multiculturalism, and literary studies. It examines the past, observes the present and probes into the future. This research informs our teaching, helping you to develop a global understanding of language and communication within and across cultures, countries, and communities.

    Right from the start of your course, you'll work with the school's top specialists, who are all experienced teachers as well. Our students and staff are international, so studying with us will hone your intercultural communication competence.

    Our courses will enhance your career development and employability prospects through our links to industry and real-life workplace settings and experiences. You'll study modules which will give you an in-depth understanding of the theories, concepts and practices of your chosen field and specialisation .

    You'll be able to diversify and deepen your language skills, for example by studying advanced translation. Some of our programmes offer a specialisation in audiovisual media/translation and digital information.

    All of our programmes will nurture you to achieve your potential as a strategic leader in the global marketplace, where languages and cultures intersect, as well as in the increasingly culturally diverse, interconnected and networked local environments that characterise life today and in the future.

    Facilities

    Our students get to make the most of the University's facilities across campus. Explore some of the teaching, library and social spaces you'll be able to visit as an arts and humanities student.

    Entry requirements

    Minimum 2:1 undergraduate honours degree in a relevant subject.

    Subject requirements

    We accept degrees in the following language-related subject areas: 

    • Languages
    • Linguistics
    • Literature
    • Translation/Interpreting

    We also consider a wide range of international qualifications:

    Entry requirements for international students

    We assess each application on the basis of the applicant’s preparation and achievement as a whole. We may accept applicants whose qualifications don’t meet the published entry criteria but have other experience relevant to the course.

    The lists of required degree subjects and modules are indicative only.  Sometimes we may accept subjects or modules that aren’t listed, and sometimes we may not accept subjects or modules that are listed, depending on the content studied.

    English language requirements

    IELTS 7 (with 6.5 in each component) or University equivalent

    Pathway programme for international students

    If you're an international student who does not meet the entry requirements for this course, you have the opportunity to apply for a pre-masters programme in Business, Social Sciences and Humanities at the University of Sheffield International College. This course is designed to develop your English language and academic skills. Upon successful completion, you can progress to degree level study at the University of Sheffield.

    If you have any questions about entry requirements, please contact the school/department.

    Apply

    You can apply now using our Postgraduate Online Application Form. It's a quick and easy process.

    The school running this course will change its name before September 2025. On the online application form, please select Faculty of Arts and Humanities and School of Languages, Arts and Societies when applying for this course.

    Apply now

    Contact

    slc-admissions@sheffield.ac.uk
    +44 114 222 0631

    Any supervisors and research areas listed are indicative and may change before the start of the course.

    Our student protection plan

    Recognition of professional qualifications: from 1 January 2021, in order to have any UK professional qualifications recognised for work in an EU country across a number of regulated and other professions you need to apply to the host country for recognition. Read information from the UK government and the EU Regulated Professions Database.