Translation Studies

Course Overview

This is an interdisciplinary MA programme, which explores and critiques the importance of translation in contemporary society. Students with a background in two languages - French, German, Irish, Italian or Spanish - will consolidate and extend their translation skills between these languages and English, and will also gain an appreciation of the centrality of translation in critical debates on intercultural communication.



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.

Second Class Honours QQI Level 8 degree or equivalent, with Second Class Honours Grade 2 or equivalent in each language.



Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

In other circumstances, those with a lower degree grade 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.

How to apply

We encourage all applicants to apply as early as possible.



Review/Closing Dates (for Taught Programmes)

For most programmes, University of Galway does not set specific closing dates for receipt of applications. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and course quotas will be reviewed continuously throughout the application cycle with the exception of applications for some programmes which are reviewed after the specified closing date. Candidates who do not have their final degree marks available may be made a conditional (provisional) offer.



Online Application

Applications to most postgraduate programmes at University of Galway are made online via www.universityofgalway.ie/apply (see "Application Weblink").

1 year full-time.

Next start date: September 2024.



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.