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Bristol’s answer to Brussels

Press release issued: 15 December 2009

The European Commission recently highlighted the need for good English-language translators and this year over 40 new postgraduates at the University are rising to the challenge by taking an online master’s degree in translation.

The European Commission recently highlighted the need for good English-language translators and this year over 40 new postgraduates at Bristol University are rising to the challenge by taking an online master’s degree in translation.

The innovative e-learning teaching method is aimed at busy professionals who wish to retrain or acquire a new skill. Available to study on a part-time or full-time basis, the programme allows students to fit their study around existing work or other commitments and prepares then for work in the translation industry.

Students choose from one of 7 languages (Czech, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian or Spanish). These are taught by a combination of professional translators and academic staff, combining academic rigour with a practical grasp of industry needs.

Although working from home terminals all over the world, the students meet up and network in a virtual seminar room.

Students can gain a competitive edge in the job market through internships in the European Union, collaboration with professional associations and links with translation companies.

One student, who lives in Germany, describes her experience so far:

‘I decided that a flexible learning opportunity would give me the opportunity to start off as a freelance translator while acquiring the necessary qualification.

This MA is testing my self-discipline, which is a pre-requisite for a freelance translator, while offering me help, assistance and encouragement all the way. 

Although everything works virtually, I really feel I am part of a study group, which is fun and helpful. I find the diversity of the other students fascinating: some are working full time, some have children to look after, some live in an other country, like me. There is a great group atmosphere on Blackboard, the learning platform. We “talk” on Blackboard like we would talk on any social forum.

Although I am not in the same country as my tutors, I know they are always available for me and I am treated as a “normal” student. One of them organised a work placement for me at the European Commission, which was a truly fantastic experience.’

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