Translation MA

Why choose this course

Originally launched in 1986, our recently updated Translation MA is one of the longest running in the world. Incorporating more than 30 years of experience in translator education, we attract students from all over the world.

Our teaching combines professional translation experience with expertise in the discipline of translation studies. We are guided by an ambitious research programme, which focuses on the responsible integration of tried-and-tested translation practices with fast-evolving technology-enhanced workflows.

What you will study

You will develop professional translation skills under the co-ordinated guidance of professional translators and experienced academics. You will simulate real-life translation scenarios and cover a variety of specialisms, as you develop a solid grounding in the linguistic, quality, social, ethical and technological dimensions of the profession. You’ll confront a wide range of translation challenges, use cutting-edge software (for example, computer-assisted translation, machine translation and corpora), and gain a critical understanding of how technologies impact the profession.

Optional modules focusing on the creative, business, technological and research dimensions of translation enable you to customise your learning, according to your own strengths, personal tastes and career ambitions.

You will gain experience of language services provision through work placements and/or other tasks and collaborations.

Careers and graduate prospects

We offer careers information, advice and guidance to all students whilst studying with us, which is extended to our alumni for three years after leaving the University. Our graduates have lifetime access to Surrey Pathfinder, our online portal for appointment and events bookings, jobs, placements and interactive development tools.

There is a growing demand for the novel modes of translation and multilingual language services that our MA Translation students are trained for.

The course’s work placement option enables you to gain professional experience and nurture a close relationship with a prospective employer, as you work towards your dissertation. We are regularly contacted by stakeholders from the language services industry wishing to recruit Surrey students and recent graduates.

If you are a native English speaker, we require a minimum of a 2:2 UK honours degree in one of the languages listed below or in a related subject taught in one of these languages. Native speakers of a relevant language (from the list below) require a degree in an arts, humanities or social science (e.g. Economics, Management, Tourism and Hospitality Management) subject.