MA Translation

The MA Translation programme combines training of practical translation skills and/or cultural mediation with teaching of translation theories and methods. It is unique in terms of the range of Asian and African language and cultural specialisations.

This programme enhances students' methodological and practical skills in translation, preparing you for the professional market as (freelance) translators, other language professionals, or cultural mediators, while providing an intellectual perspective on the discipline of translation studies, which could be the foundation for further MPhil/PhD research. Students have access to a wealth of resources for the study and practice of translation available in the SOAS Library and nearby institutions such as the University of London Library, the UCL Library, the British Library, as well as the BBC World Service and many others.

Student experience at SOAS is enriched by a range of research seminars at SOAS’ Centre for Translation Studies (CTS) as well as Student Enterprise activities such as translation work.

Drawing on the expertise of highly qualified teachers and researchers at SOAS, the MA translation programme offers a range of languages to work with, including: Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Persian, Swahili, and Turkish.

Why study MA Translation at SOAS?

• SOAS is ranked 1st in London and 9th in the UK in the Complete University Guide 2023 for Middle Eastern and African Studies
• Top 10th in the UK in the Complete University Guide 2023 for African and Middle Eastern Studies
• Modern Languages and Linguistics at SOAS has been ranked 10th in the UK in the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021
• 4th for research environment - with 100% of our research ranked as 'internationally excellent' and 85% as 'world-leading' - and 8th for research outputs in the REF 2021
• SOAS is a specialist in the studies of Africa, the Middle East, South Asia and South East Asia
• Access comprehensive cross-regional expertise and gain an understanding of the interconnectedness of these regions in an increasingly globalised world
• You will be eligible to apply for internships, available to students starting 2023/24.

Graduates of the School of Languages, Cultures and Linguistics leave SOAS not only with linguistic and cultural expertise, but also with skills in written and oral communication, analysis and problem solving.

Applicants with bachelor’s degree equivalent to 2:ii: CGPA: 55-60% or 5.5/10 - 6.0/10 from a good university will be considered for entry.