Translation Studies

Course Outline

In Semester 1, the programme introduces students to the field of Translation Studies, providing a strong theoretical focus and a history and development of this field through seminars. Alongside this, students develop the skills of translation, focusing on any two of French, German, Irish, Italian and Spanish, and may select from cognate subjects dealing with Intercultural Communication or Translation Methodology and Text. In Semester 2, students continue to work on their translation skills, and subsequently complete a dissertation broadly related to any of the theoretical or social issues broached throughout the year and relevant to the field of Translation Studies, focusing on one of their languages.



As there is a genuine need for professional translators, this postgraduate programme in Translation Studies will be an important qualification for graduates wishing to add specific professional skills to their primary qualification. An important aspect of the programme will be the exploitation of new language technology, utilising the multimedia facilities available on campus.

A Second Class Honours NQAI Level 8 degree or equivalent, with Second Class Honours Grade 2 or equivalent in one of the following languages: French, Gaeilge, German, Italian or Spanish.



Supplemental items (as listed for all Taught programmes in the College of Arts, Social Sciences and Celtic Studies): Official qualifications and exam results (transcripts) to date; English language competency; Personal statements; Passport or Birth Certificate.



Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

In some circumstances, applicants with a lower degree grade or with a degree in a different subject but certified knowledge of the language and/or who have relevant work experience in the field of Translation Studies will be considered. Further information is available on the University’s Recognition of Prior Learning website.

Applications must be completed online at: https://nuigalway.elluciancrmrecruit.com/Apply/Account/Login.



An application requires a registration fee of €35. You will be asked to upload proof of identification, academic transcripts, a personal statement, an academic reference and documentation to fulfil the English requirement (where English is not your first language).

1 year full-time.

Next start date September 2025



Closing Date

You are advised to apply early, which may result in an early offer;

Career Opportunities

Graduates have gone on to pursue careers in a range of fields, including the civil service, teaching, translation and human resources. Beyond the honing of translation skills, students will develop a range of transferable skills through collaborative tasks and presentations at various stages of the course.