Program Overview

Applied Language and Translation Studies

Overview

The BA in Applied Language and Translation Studies (ALTS) is a unique degree that aims to prepare a new generation of translators and language professionals for global career opportunities. You will study two foreign languages with exciting combinations that include Chinese, French, German, Japanese, and Spanish. Plus, this dynamic degree allows you to explore the principles behind language, culture, translation, and intercultural communication.

Careers & Further Options

Graduates from our degree in Applied Language and Translation Studies are immediately work-ready and sought after for their professional competencies as language professionals and translators. Many of our graduates have found employment across a range of industries where they have applied their language skills, including localisation, gaming, banking, tourism, education, research, and recruitment.

Career Areas

• Translator
• Interpreter
• Mediator between cultural groups
• Editor
• Terminologist
• Educator
• Researcher
• Marketer
• Sales manager
• Diplomat
• Journalist
• Logistics manager
• International development worker

Entry Requirements

• Leaving Cert: Minimum of H4 in French or German or Spanish
• GCE A Level: C French or German or Spanish
• FET Level 5: Please visit our Admissions webpage for details on course requirements or how to apply to DCU.
• Mature Applicants: Mature entry is a competitive process. Applicants must demonstrate a genuine interest in the programme(s) they are applying for, academic experience and competency in their chosen field of study, and an ability to engage and succeed on the programme.
• Advanced Entry: Applications are welcomed to Year 2 from students who have studied at Level 6, 7, or 8 in relevant areas.
• International Applications: International candidates are expected to have educational qualifications of a standard equivalent to those outlined above. In addition, where such candidates are non-native speakers of the English language, they must satisfy the university of their competency in the English language.

Course Structure

Year 1

• Two intermediate languages or one beginner and one intermediate language
• In addition to the two languages, all students choose from the following:
  • Introduction to Translation Studies
  • Introduction to the Study of Language
  • Chinese/French/German/Japanese/Spanish Society and Literature

Year 2

• Two intermediate languages or one beginner and one intermediate language
• In addition to the two languages, all students choose from the following:
  • Textual Studies
  • Chinese/French/German/Japanese/Spanish Literature and Film
  • Chinese/French/German/Japanese/Spanish Translation Practice
  • Introduction to Terminology
  • Computer-Aided Translation

Year 3

• Continue with your two chosen languages or focus on one
• Dissertation (independent research)
• Multimedia Translation
• Introduction to Interpreting
• Chinese/French/German/Japanese/Spanish Advanced Oral and Writing Skills
• Chinese/French/German/Japanese/Spanish Economic Translation
• Chinese/French/German/Japanese/Spanish Scientific/Technical Translation

Year 4

• Year abroad at a partner university
• OR
• Opportunity to complete a year-long work placement (INTRA)

Fees and Funding

• Full-time: Student Contribution €3,043 per annum, EU Status Fee €6,679 per annum, Non-EU Fee €15,400 per annum

How To Apply

• Applicants presenting EU school leaving examinations (EU, EFTA & UK): Apply through the Central Applications Office (CAO) by 1st February or 1st May
• Applicants presenting examinations from outside the EU: Candidates should apply directly to DCU
• Mature Applicants: All mature applicants apply through the CAO by 1st February
• Advanced Entry: Applications are made via the CAO Advanced Entry route which will open on the 5th November to 1st July

Life On Campus

• Clubs & Societies: LanguaCulture Space at DCU, Chinese Society, German Society, Japanese Society, French Society, and Erasmus Student Network
• Accommodation: DCU does have on-campus accommodation for undergraduate and postgraduate students
• Student Supports: Student Advice & Learning Skills Centre, The Writing Centre, Maths Learning Centre, Student Learning, and Careers Service

FAQs

• Do I need special equipment for this course? SALIS has two newly refurbished language and translation laboratories for students to use.
• I am good with languages and have an interest in training to be a translator - Do you have a degree that would work for me? The BA in Applied Language and Translation Studies (ALTS) might be for you!
• I love languages but will I need to do further study after my degree in order to get a job or am I equipped to go into the workplace? What sort of career can I pursue? You will be equipped after the ALTS degree to be a language professional of various different types.