Program Overview

Translation Studies Practice-Based PhD

The Translation Studies Practice-Based PhD is a research-focused program that allows students to produce their own original work of translation alongside a research thesis. The program is supported by a lead supervisor with expertise in the chosen language-pair, and students have the flexibility to choose from a variety of languages offered by the Modern Languages department.

Course Structure

The program typically takes three years to complete full-time or six years part-time. The first year includes a literature review specific to the thesis and topic, and students begin to undertake their research and relevant training. The thesis is written in stages over the course of the program, and students receive regular feedback.

Course Highlights

• The program is part of the Department of Modern Languages, which is a world top 100 Modern Languages department (QS World University Rankings 2025).
• Staff are members of the European Society for Translation Studies and the International Association of Translation and Interpreting.
• Students have access to translation software, including translation memory tools, corpus and text analysis tools, and post-editing tools.
• The program offers a dedicated facilities, including software and library resources, and the opportunity to conduct research from anywhere in the world through online distance learning.

Research Themes

The program explores how the study of languages, discourses, and cultures challenges our understanding and experience of the world. Research themes include:

• Forging links: Colonial and Postcolonial Studies, Exile and Migration, Memory Studies
• (Trans)forming knowledge: Digital Humanities in Modern Languages, Linguistics, Medieval Studies, Music, Nineteenth Century Studies
• Intersecting identities: Sexuality and Gender Studies

Entry Requirements

• Merit in a Masters degree (for entry to a PhD)
• 2:1 Honour degree (for entry to an MA by Research)
• English language requirements: IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band
• A research proposal, typically 1,000-1,500 words for Arts programs, including details of the source text, proposed target text, and how the project relates to current work in Translation Studies

Fees and Scholarships

• Full-time: £5,181
• Part-time: £2,591
• The same fees apply to both campus-based and distance learning study
• A range of scholarships are available, including the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) Landscape Awards, College of Arts and Law Doctoral Scholarships, and Wolfson Postgraduate Scholarships in the Humanities

Application Process

• Applications are accepted all year round, but students are encouraged to apply by 1 June for a September start
• A research proposal is required, and students should identify a potential supervisor and contact them before submitting an application
• The application should include a draft research proposal, details of university-level qualifications, and relevant professional experience

Career Opportunities

• The University is the top choice for the UK's major employers searching for graduate recruits
• Students have access to dedicated careers support, including one-to-one guidance, careers fairs, and networking opportunities
• The program prepares researchers to make an impact across every sector of society, with graduates going on to work in academia, industry, and other fields

Student Experience

• The University offers a range of accommodation options, including dedicated postgraduate halls and private accommodation close to campus
• Students have access to a range of facilities, including libraries, sports centers, and student unions
• The University is committed to providing support to all students, including academic support, mental health support, and financial support

Related Courses

• Translation Studies PhD / MA by Research