The Best Translation Degrees at UK Universities

Translation courses allow students to develop their translation skills and gain a deeper understanding of its theory and practice. These courses cover a wide range of topics, including translation theory, literary translation, legal and technical translation, and the use of translation technology, and are designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to pursue careers as professional translators or interpreters. Students will have the opportunity to specialise in specific areas and develop their own research projects. 

UK universities are known for their stature as the powerhouse of languages and literature and offer some of the best translation courses in the world. They present state-of-the-art infrastructure and a world-class environment to help students nurture themselves.

In an increasingly globalised world, the demand for talented translators is on the rise. Translation is a form of linguistics and is a far more nuanced skill than many give it credit for. A skilled translator can dissect the sound, grammar and meaning of different languages with ease, providing a valuable skill set to many different types of companies and clients.

Almost all translation courses in the UK are accredited by the Chartered Institute of Linguists, and upon successful completion of a translation degree, which can often be part of a larger Linguistics degree, students will be ready to work for national and international governments, large or small corporations, and once experienced, freelance.

Are you interested in studying a linguistics or translation degree in the UK? If so, learn more about some of the best translation degrees in the UK below (Guardian University Guide 2023) and arrange a free consultation at SI-UK London today to begin your application.

Best Translation Courses in the UK

1. University of Oxford

The Master of Studies (MSt) in Comparative Literature and Critical Translation is designed for students who are interested in exploring the intersections between literature, culture, and language. It aims to provide a solid foundation in literary and cultural theory, critical thinking, translation studies, and a deep understanding of the comparative analysis of literary works across different languages and cultures.

Students are encouraged to develop their own research interests and are provided with the opportunity to work closely with world-renowned scholars in the field of comparative literature and translation studies. Throughout the course, they are required to engage in critical analysis of literary texts in different languages, as well as to develop their own translations of literary works. By the end of the programme, candidates will have acquired advanced skills in literary analysis, critical thinking, and translation, which will enable them to pursue further academic research or careers in the fields of publishing, journalism, or cultural diplomacy.

• Suggested course: MSt in Comparative Literature and Critical Translation
• Entry requirements: A first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours in any subject.
• International fees: £32,760

2. University of Surrey

The University of Surrey offers a globally-prominent Master of Arts (MA) in Translation. It covers a wide range of topics, including translation theory, professional translation practice, and the use of translation technology. Students will also have the opportunity to specialise in specific areas of translation, such as legal or medical translation, and to develop their own research projects. Students will have access to various translation resources and software, including computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools.

Surrrey’s degree in translation assists students in acquiring advanced skills in translation and interpreting and a deep understanding of translation theory and practice. One of the best translation courses in the UK, this will enable them to pursue careers as professional translators or interpreters or continue their studies at the doctoral level.

• Suggested course: Translation MA
• Entry requirements: A minimum of a 2:2 UK honours degree in a related subject taught.
• International fees: £18,400

3. Durham University

The MA in Translation offered by Durham University is a one-year postgraduate programme that provides students with an in-depth understanding of the theory and practice of translation. The course covers a range of topics, including translation theory, literary translation, and practical translation skills. The course gives you the opportunity to work with professional translators and gain practical experience through work placements.

Durham believes in encouraging students to develop their own research interests and to undertake independent research projects. They will also have the opportunity to attend research seminars and conferences and to present their own research findings. Graduates are expected to have acquired advanced translation and interpretation skills and a deep understanding of translation theory and practice.

• Suggested course: MA Translation Studies
• Entry requirements: An upper-second class bachelor degree or equivalent in a relevant area.
• International fees: £22,750

4. Aberystwyth University

The MA in Translation offered by Aberystwyth University is designed for students who want to develop their skills in translation and interpretation. The programme teaches you several relevant subjects, including translation theory, cultural translation, and translation technology. Students will also have the opportunity to specialise in specific areas of translation, such as literary, legal, or technical translation.

The course aims to equip you with the necessary skills to find your own unique style as a translator while also fostering your confidence in using translation technologies. Additionally, the course provides an opportunity to explore ethical considerations related to clients and colleagues, as well as an avenue to develop entrepreneurial skills.

The programme offers specialisations in French, German, Italian, Mandarin Chinese, Russian, Spanish, and Portuguese, focusing mainly on translating these languages into English. This provides a platform for students to learn to translate from a diverse range of source languages.

• Suggested course: MA Professional Translation Studies
• Entry requirements: 2:1 Bachelors (Honours) degree, or equivalent. Non-graduates will be considered individually based on relevant experience.

5. University of Bristol

One of the best language translation degrees in the UK, the MA Translation by the University of Bristol prepares students to become proficient translators, develop their individual styles, use translation technologies with confidence, explore ethical issues, and enhance their entrepreneurial skills. The programme is offered in French, German, Italian, Mandarin Chinese, Russian, Spanish, and Portuguese, primarily translating from these languages into English.

The programme is validated by the Chartered Institute of Linguists and is a corporate member of the Institute of Translation and Interpreting. The teaching and learning primarily occur in asynchronous, interactive seminar groups led by language and community specialists, CAT tool and MT experts, subtitling, poetry, theory, and translation as service professionals, and video game localisation and accessibility specialists.

• Suggested course: MA Translation
• Entry requirements: Upper second-class honours degree (or international equivalent) in a relevant language (French, German, Italian, Mandarin Chinese, Portuguese, Russian or Spanish), or any other subject.
• International fees: £29,000

Study Translation in the UK

If you want to study a translation degree in the UK, at undergraduate or postgraduate level, arrange a free consultation at SI-UK London today.