Introduction to the Translation and Interpreting Program

The Translation and Interpreting program is based in the internationally recognised Centre for Translation and Interpreting Studies in Scotland (CTISS). The Centre provides a focus for research into the socio-professional use of language in multilingual environments. Its aims include investigation of the nature of the process of translating/interpreting and the construction of social communication, dissemination of research, and the promotion of awareness of issues relating to the profession and to the training of interpreters and translators.

Key Information

• Funding: Self-funded
• School: Social Sciences
• Location: Edinburgh
• Delivery type: Full-time, Part-time
• Start date: September
• Duration: 3 years

Programme Description

A particular strength of the program is its translation and interpreting research. The CTISS brings together staff and postgraduate research in core areas of translation studies, interdisciplinary social communication studies, and discourse linguistics. A belief that understanding of textual strategies (genres, discourses, texts) is central to the discourse processes involved in translating and interpreting is a unifying theme of much of the work done in CTISS.

Research Areas

The Centre carries out research on contrastive textology and social communication science, in addition to core research in translating and interpreting processes. Research projects include:

• Public Service Interpreting: Standardizing Quality and Professionalisation
• Police Interpreting
• Interpreting and Translating In Mental Health Settings
• Translation of Cultural Objects
• Evaluative or Persuasive Written Communication in Business Contexts
• Interpreter-mediated Interaction
• Migrant Memoirs and Literature in Translation
• Linguistic Needs and Policy in Multilingual Europe
• Legal Interpreting Provision, Training and Policy
• Translating/Adapting Music Across National Boundaries
• Sign language interpreting and translation
• Corpus methodologies in Translation and Interpreting Studies
• Multimodality and Translation

Entry Requirements

Candidate criteria include:

• Suitably qualified candidates are welcome to apply.
• It is not necessary to have identified a potential supervisor before submitting an application.
• Students successful in obtaining a place on the PhD programme normally commence their research studies at the start of the academic year in September.
• Applications should be submitted via the online application portal.

Supporting Documents

The following documents must be submitted with the application:

1. Academic Transcripts and Degree Certificates: Copies of full academic transcripts from all previous academic degree courses and copies of degree certificates for degrees already awarded.
2. Research Proposal: The research proposal should be around 5-8 pages long and contain an introduction, objectives, relevant literature, research methodology, theoretical structure, and a provisional timetable.
3. English Language Requirements: Evidence of language proficiency is required if the applicant's first language is not English.
4. Funding Information: Applicants should confirm how they are proposing to fund their studies.
5. References: References should be submitted with the application, or the names and contact details of two academic referees should be provided.

English Language Requirements

• The minimum English language requirement for entry to this programme is IELTS 6.5 (or equivalent) with no score lower than 6.0.
• If the applicant's first language is not English, evidence of language proficiency is required.

Funding Information

The tuition fees for the program are as follows:

• Scotland: ｣5,151 (Full Time), ｣2,575.50 (Part Time)
• England / Wales / N Ireland: ｣5,151 (Full Time), ｣2,575.50 (Part Time)
• International: ｣20,456 (Full Time), ｣10,228 (Part Time)

Competitive funded scholarships for research degrees are available, including full or partial support from UK research councils, research pools, charities, or industry.

Heriot-Watt University

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Overview:

Heriot-Watt University is a research-focused institution with campuses in Edinburgh, the Scottish Borders, Orkney, Dubai, and Malaysia, as well as an online presence. It is known for its career-focused degrees and strong links with industry. Heriot-Watt is highly regarded for its research, with a significant portion ranked world-leading and internationally excellent.

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Services Offered:

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Heriot-Watt offers a diverse and international student community, with one-third of its Edinburgh Campus students coming from outside the UK. The university provides a range of facilities across its campuses, including healthcare, libraries, food and drink, sports centers, and more. Students can participate in clubs and activities, and the university offers accommodation options near its campuses.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Career-focused degrees:

Heriot-Watt is ranked first in Scotland for graduate employability and its graduates are first in the UK for CEO or MD roles.

Global reach:

The university has campuses across the UK, Dubai, and Malaysia, providing students with a truly international experience.

Strong research:

Heriot-Watt is valued for its pioneering research, which is informed by the global needs of business and industry.

Diverse student community:

The university boasts a diverse international student community, fostering a multicultural learning environment.

Beautiful campuses:

Heriot-Watt's campuses are located in stunning settings, offering students a unique and inspiring learning environment.

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Academic Programs:

Heriot-Watt offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

• Engineering
• Life Sciences
• Mathematics
• Computer Sciences
• Physical Sciences
• Social Sciences and Business
• Art and Design
• Languages and Culture

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Other:

Heriot-Watt is committed to sustainability and is actively working towards achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The university also offers a personalized virtual experience through its online tour platform, allowing prospective students to explore its campuses virtually.