School of Modern Languages & Cultures

Master of Arts in Translation Studies

Durham’s MA in Translation Studies is recognised globally for its academic quality and innovative approach to translation.

we aim to equip students with the knowledge, skills and expertise needed for a successful professional career, whether in translation and interpreting, academic research, diplomacy, business, journalism, or cultural entrepreneurship
we specialise in Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Russian and Spanish
students can opt for an academic pathway (leading to a PhD) or a professional pathway, with the latter specialising either in translation or interpreting (Chinese)
our programme integrates generative artificial intelligence (AI) whilst rigorously developing students' core translation competencies
we train students to use state-of-the-art AI tools in modules relating to specialised translation, Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT) tools and subtitling
for course structure, entry requirements and fees see here

I had a purely practical background in language and translation and so I chose options such as the work placement module and intercultural project management with ethics. However, I quickly realised that I was enjoying translation theory and transcultural modules so much. I was full of ideas. My lecturers were so generous with their time, energy and criticality.

Cerise

Former MA in Translation Studies student

I received rigorous practical and theoretical training, which enhanced my skill as a translator and broadened my understanding of translation in general. With the help of my lecturers, I completed a successful dissertation on film and translation studies on my MA. And I’ve recently completed a PhD in which I analysed the films of Ang Lee from the perspective of intersemiotic translation. The MA helped sew a seed in me and I am still rejoicing

Haoxuan

Former MA in Translation Studies student

Comprehensive Skills Development

we offer the in-depth study of languages, linguistics, and professional translation techniques, while fostering critical thinking and research skills
students develop advanced language proficiency and learn to apply diverse translation theories
students enhance their interpersonal skills, intercultural competence, ethical decision-making and project management skills
optional modules focus on the history of translation as a profession and set of practices, and on the linguistic and cultural processes at play when words, texts and images travel from one geographical or historical context to another

Work Placement

the work placement module acts as a point of access into the culture, heritage and creative sectors of Britain, Europe and the world
our portfolio of professional partners includes Durham museums and galleries (such as the Castle, Cathedral and Oriental Museum) and British institutes of art and culture (like the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art and the Discovery Museum in Newcastle and the Museum of Science and Media in Bradford)
our students have held internships as literary, cultural or professional translators in museums, galleries, universities and branches of the EU in Vienna, Strasbourg, Venice, Paris, Berlin, Madrid and Turin.

Integrating Technology and Tradition

our cooperative learning environments extend beyond the classroom, offering hands-on experience with CAT tools and generative AI technologies
students receive training in post-editing translations produced by Neural Machine Translation (NMT) systems and Large Language Models (LLMs), emphasising human-AI interaction and collaboration
we teach students to harness AI as a tool that complements, rather than replaces, human expertise

Industry-Aligned Curriculum

our curriculum evolves continuously to meet the demands of the dynamic translation and interpreting market
we have been members of the European Master’s in Translation Network since 2011
we have recently introduced new modules such as Subtitling and Translation Practica, the latter covering website, software and video game localisation, transcreation, audio description, and plain and gist translation
for Chinese-English language pairs, we have enhanced our interpreting offerings. These include an extended Consecutive Interpreting module and a new intensive Simultaneous Interpreting course

Cultural and Historical Focus

located in a World Heritage Site city, our MA is serious about translation relating to culture, heritage and the creative industries
specially designed modules in languages, linguistics and professional translation, combined with transcultural and transhistorical courses, enhance sensitivity towards translation across media, cultures and time

Diverse Career Prospects and Strong Alumni Network

our programme opens doors to an extensive range of careers, from creative or literary translation and institutes of culture and heritage to university departments, government organisations and the worlds of technology, finance, law, sport and medicine
we have a strong network of graduates from our programme working in professional translation agencies across the globe

Doing the MA was academically and professionally transformative for me. The modules allowed me to combine my passion for languages, literature and visual arts. As an international student, I found the community very welcoming and enjoyed living in a city as friendly and rich in heritage as Durham.

Tamara

Former MA in Translation Studies student

Hear from a former student

What is it like to study on the MA in Translation Studies at Durham University? This film offers the perspective of Maris O'Donnell

Find out more about studying here

Applying

Applications are made through the online centralised Durham University system, but you are very welcome to contact us with any queries or clarifications, or to arrange an in-person or online visit outside the formal open days.

Contacts:

MLAC Postgraduate Studies Coordinator: Mrs Lucia Luck lucia.luck@durham.ac.uk

MATS Co-Directors: Dr Penny Johnson (Spanish) penelope.johnson@durham.ac.uk and Don Starr (Chinese) d.f.starr@durham.ac.uk