Modern Languages, Translation and Interpreting, BA (Hons)

Study this Specialist Programme, Preparing you for a Language Career

Student in Language Lab

Course Overview

The demand for translators and interpreters who know and understand the latest language technologies is growing rapidly. This is down to a growing number of companies, institutions and people doing business globally, but expecting to use services in their own language, which leads to the latest technological innovations being incorporated into the rapidly evolving language services industry.

This specialist degree will provide you with excellent language skills in up to two languages, as well as theoretical, practical, technical and vocational translation and interpreting skills.

French, German and Spanish can be studied at the following levels and in the following combinations:

  • Two advanced languages: suitable if you have an A-level or equivalent qualification/experience in both languages.
  • One advanced language and one beginner’s language: suitable if you have an A-level in a single language, and wish to continue with that same language, while adding a second language to your skillset (Italian and Chinese beginner's modules are also available from the second year of study).
  • One advanced language: suitable if you have an A-level or equivalent qualification/experience, and wish to focus exclusively on one language.

There are four levels of languages taught on this programme for the main languages listed above; beginners, intermediate, upper intermediate, and advanced. You can choose the appropriate level based on your existing background in these languages, and whether you choose to undertake an additional Year Abroad or Year in Industry. These language modules have different assessments to fairly reflect your level of study.

On completion of this programme, you will have a detailed understanding of translation and interpreting in different specialist areas and contexts, as well as a high level of proficiency in your selected languages, and in relevant language technologies.

Why Modern Languages, Translation and Interpreting at Swansea?

Based on our stunning Singleton Park campus, in parkland overlooking Swansea Bay on the edge of the Gower Peninsula:

  • You will be taught by research experts who specialise in translation and interpreting as well as new media (technology and AI), cognitive translation studies, and metaphor translation.
  • You will have translation work experience, including lectures by industry professionals on translation project workflow and commercial translation, project management software, as well as job application procedures.
  • You will have a dedicated personal tutor who will provide you with any support you may need.
  • You will have access to PC labs equipped with the latest industry translation software, a new Televic conference and interpreting suite, and excellent library resources.
  • You will be able to join our FrenchGerman and Spanish Student Societies for weekly social events including, film screenings, pub quizzes and more!  

Modern Languages at Swansea is ranked:

  • 1st for Student Satisfaction (Complete University Guide 2026)
  • 4th in the UK for Teaching Satisfaction (Guardian University Guide 2026)
  • 5th in the UK Overall (Guardian University Guide 2026), and has
  • 100% Overall Satisfaction* (NSS 2025)

    * Assessed under ‘Linguistics’, (Q28, NSS 2025)

Your Modern Languages, Translation and Interpreting Experience

As a recognised partner of the Chartered Institute of Linguists, our curriculum meets the standards set by professional translation bodies. You will receive in-depth tuition, gaining specific skills such as computer-assisted translation, dialogue interpreting and professional interpreting for commerce, governance, health or law. 

You can shape their course to match your goals and interests by choosing from:

  • A 4-year programme with a year spent in the country or countries of the language or languages studied (expected proficiency C1 on the Common European Framework for Languages Scale)
  • A 4-year programme with a dedicated Year in Industry, in the UK or further afield (expected proficiency B2-C1)
  • A 3-year programme without a Year Abroad or Year in Industry, offering a more direct route into employment or postgraduate study (expected proficiency B2-C1).

A year abroad at one of Swansea University’s partner institutions will allow you to hone your language and intercultural awareness, skills which are essential to translation and interpreting.

The Year in Industry can be spent in the UK or overseas, giving you valuable experience. The University advocates for paid placements, with an average salary of £20,000+. Unpaid placements are considered on a case-by-case basis. Although securing a placement is the responsibility of the student, we work with several organisations that provide a range of opportunities. If you choose to pursue a Year in Industry, you will be supported throughout the application journey with advice, guidance, and resources. If you are unable to secure a placement by the end of the second year of study, you will be able to transfer onto the equivalent 3-year degree programme. 

This programme is also open to native speakers of the languages on offer, who may choose to learn a second or third language as per the combinations listed above. You may also wish to study your first language though, with a view to becoming a professional interpreter or translator in your country of origin.

Modern Languages, Translation and Interpreting Employment Opportunities

Whilst this programme offers a clear vocational path into a career in translation and interpreting, it also opens doors to numerous career opportunities both in the UK and further afield.  

Our graduates have careers in:

  • Translation and interpreting
  • Advertising and Marketing
  • Management Consultancy and Business Analysis
  • Education
  • Journalism, media and public relations
  • Government, politics and humanitarian organisations
  • Business and commerce
  • Public services

Modules

We're currently reviewing our curriculum to enhance your learning experience and embed skills that will benefit your future career. This means that some modules may be subject to change.

Entry Requirements

The University will consider applications from students offering a wide range of qualifications.

Typical A level Offer

ABB-BBC

Modern Languages, Translation and Interpreting, BA (Hons)

Modern Languages, Translation and Interpreting with a Year Abroad, BA (Hons)

Modern Languages, Translation and Interpreting with a Year in Industry, BA (Hons)