- The programme is taught by academic staff and by experts from the industry who bring their professional experience into the classroom.
- The University has a state-of-the-art language lab with cutting-edge translation software including SDL Trados, Swift and WinCAPS.
- You will have the option to study the localisation of computer games, equipping you to work in one of the UK’s fastest growing industries.
- Roehampton’s location in London is ideal, as the city has established itself as one of the main centres for translation in the world.
- Corporate member of the Institute of Translators and Interpreters
PostgraduateSpecialised Translation
Apply for this course
This programme is undergoing periodic review*
Summary
This programme aims to address the growing demand for translators with skills in translating technical texts.
The programme will familiarise you with the sociocultural, linguistic and technical dimensions that characterise specialised multilingual material. Through working with dedicated software and high-tech industry standard equipment, you will learn the skills you need to enter the professional market and gain the knowledge to pursue further research in this field.
There is a particular emphasis on learning translation tools (in particular SDL Trados) and on localisation, especially for video games. This programme is not limited to specific language pairs. You can work into and out of English and another language of your choice.
You will be taught by staff who are leaders in the field of translation and whose work has influenced organisations such as OFCOM. They work closely with industry and bring in key professionals in the field to teach and give talks, thus helping you to make vital industry contacts.
Roehampton boasts state-of-the-art language labs with cutting-edge translation software, including SDL Trados, Swift and WinCAPS. The lab also features a training suite and an open access area where you can work independently.
In recent years our graduates have found work with a broad range of organisations including: media companies and broadcasters such as the BBC, France TV, and RTVE; subtitling companies such as IMS, Deluxe, ITFC; and translation and localisation providers including Pole To Win, London Translations and JF Traduções e Interpretações.
As a Specialised Translation student you will become a member of the Centre for Research in Translation and Transcultural Studies, which promotes excellence in research into translation-related areas including language learning, audiovisual translation, accessibility to the media and other areas of translation.
Content
This course covers the theoretical and the practical aspects of specialised translation. In the compulsory module ‘Technical and Scientific Translation’ you will practice your skills in translating highly specialised documents into your chosen language. During the course you will also address the main theoretical issues shaping translation today and understand how these theories relate to the practice of translation.
IT skills are central to a translator's work so the compulsory module ‘Translation Tools’ will familiarise you with some of the translation tools you will be using in your professional life. These include terminology databases, translation memory tools, and other computer-assisted translation systems. You will be taught how to carry out efficient documentation and make appropriate use of research tools in solving technical and scientific translation problems.
You could also study ‘The Localisation of Video Games’ where you will examine the principles and practices of localisation in the area of multimedia interactive entertainment software. Other optional modules currently include ‘Subtitling: Concepts and Practice’, where you will explore the techniques of subtitle synchronisation using specialised software. MA students will also undertake a dissertation, which will provide you with the ideal opportunity to undertake an in-depth investigation of a translation-related topic that is of interest to you.
Modules
Compulsory modules
Translation and Intercultural Communication: Theory and Practice
Translation Tools
Techincal and Scientific Translation
Optional modules
Think, Create, Translate: Transcreation in the Creative Industries
Professional Skills for Translators
Economic and Legal Translation
Media Access: Audiodescription, Subtitling for the Deaf and Respeaking
Translation Project
Dubbing and Voiceover
Accessible Filmmaking: Theory and Practice
The Localisation of Video Games
Subtitling: Concepts and Practice
Compulsory module (MA students only)
Dissertation
Compulsory and Required modules
Compulsory and/or required modules may change when we review and update programmes. Above is a list of modules offered this academic year.
Optional modules
Optional modules, when offered as part of a programme, may vary from year to year and are subject to viability.
Career options
Specialised translator, subtitler, technical writer, editor, terminologist, project manager or localiser.
Life at Roehampton
At Roehampton, we can offer all new students the opportunity to live in accommodation on our beautiful parkland campus, including affordable and high-end options.
We offer scholarships, provide hardship funding and help you find advice on managing your finances while you study.
We provide plenty of opportunities for you to get involved, through volunteering, playing sport or music, or joining one of our many active student societies.