MA in Interpreting, Technology and AI, University of Surrey

12 Months

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About this course

This MA course is unique in helping students develop advanced interpreting skills across all modes, including consecutive, simultaneous, dialogue, and distance interpreting. It emphasizes integrating cutting-edge technologies, such as AI-enabled speech and language tools, into interpreting workflows. Students will learn from experts in interpreting technology and explore emerging areas like remote interpreting, hybrid modalities, audiovisual translation, and AI applications like neural machine translation and large language models. The course combines practical training in state-of-the-art facilities with theoretical knowledge on the role of digital tools in language services. It also offers internships and professional development activities, including collaboration with language service providers, to prepare students for a dynamic, future-proof industry. The programme attracts an international student body, fostering a multicultural environment, and aims to equip students with industry-relevant skills to succeed globally.

Why this course is highly recommended

This course is supported by Surrey’s Centre for Translation Studies, a top UK research centre with over 40 years of experience. It combines a strong practical component with cutting-edge research in interpreting technologies and AI, making it ideal for students aiming to stay at the forefront of the industry. The programme’s industry connections, including partnerships with professional bodies like CIOL and ITI, as well as opportunities for work placements and real-world interpreting practice, set students up for successful careers. The focus on digital tools such as automatic speech recognition and large language models ensures graduates are well-prepared for the evolving language services market, making this a future-proof qualification.

Specialisation

The course offers a multilingual pathway, regularly including languages such as Arabic, Chinese (Mandarin), French, German, Greek, Italian, Korean, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Russian, Spanish, Swedish, and Turkish. Many other languages may be available upon request. It provides practical training in all interpreting modes and covers specialisms like legal, scientific, medical, and business interpretation. Optional modules allow further exploration into audiovisual translation, public service interpreting, hybrid practices, and AI in translation and interpreting, enabling students to tailor their learning to their career ambitions.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

23.01L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants need a minimum of a 2:2 UK honours degree in a relevant language or related subject. For native speakers of a listed language, a degree in English or a related subject is required. Alternative qualifications are considered on a case-by-case basis. For international students, English language proficiency must typically be demonstrated through IELTS Academic scores of 6.5 overall, with 6.5 in writing and speaking, and 6.0 in other categories. The course may also consider recognition of prior learning, and relevant work experience may be taken into account.

English language test

PTE

IELTS

6.5

DUOLINGO

TOEFL

Want to learn more about the admission process, eligibility criteria, and acceptance rates for international students? Visit the University of Surrey admission page for complete details.

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme will be well-equipped to work as interpreters, whether freelance or within organizations such as international bodies, government agencies, or private companies. The programme’s industry links enable opportunities for placements and networking at events like the annual CTS careers fair. The skills taught prepare students for roles as in-house interpreters, interpreting services managers, or specialists in interpreting technology. The focus on skills like note-taking, public speaking, and terminology management enhances employability. Graduates can also pursue academic careers, including research and PhD studies, in interpreting and translation technology.

FAQs

What languages can I study in?

The programme offers a multilingual pathway with languages like Arabic, Chinese (Mandarin), French, German, Greek, Italian, Korean, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Russian, Spanish, Swedish, and Turkish, among others on request.

What practical skills will I gain?

You will develop skills in all interpreting modes, remote and distance interpreting, and learn to use digital tools such as electronic glossaries, speech recognition, and AI-enabled translation technologies.