Modern Languages, Translation and Interpreting, BA (Hons)

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Course Overview

The demand for translators and interpreters is growing rapidly as more companies, institutions and people do business globally but expect to use services in their own language.

Our specialist Modern Languages, Translation and Interpreting degree will provide you with excellent language skills in either one or two languages (French, German and Spanish), as well as theoretical, vocational and practical translation and interpreting skills. 

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

  • Two advanced languages: suitable for you if you have an A-level or equivalent qualification / experience in both languages.
  • One advanced language and one beginner’s language: suitable for you if you have an A-level in a single language, and wish to continue with that language, while adding a second language to your skillset.
  • One advanced language: suitable for you if you have an A-level or equivalent qualification / experience and wish to focus exclusively on one language.

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

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 ‘Raclette Night’, film screenings, pub quizzes and more!  

Modern Languages at Swansea is ranked:

  • 1st in the UK for Teaching Satisfaction (Guardian University Guide 2025)
  • 1st for Learning Opportunities (NSS 2024)*
  • 2nd for Teaching (NSS 2024)**
  • 2nd for Student Voice (NSS 2024)***
  • 5th in the UK Overall (Guardian University Guide 2025)

*Based on the average positivity score across questions 5 to 9 in the NSS 2024 when ranked against universities featured in the Times Good University Guide.
**Based on the average positivity score across questions 1 to 4 in the NSS 2024 when ranked against universities featured in the Times Good University Guide.
***Based on the average positivity score across questions 22 to 25 in the NSS 2024 when ranked against universities featured in the Times Good University Guide.

Your Modern Languages, Translation and Interpreting Experience

As a recognised partner of the Chartered Institute of Linguists, our curriculum meets 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 your 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 our partner institutions allows you to hone your language and intercultural awareness, essential to translation and interpreting.

The Year in Industry can be spent in the UK or overseas**, giving 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 who provide a range of opportunities. Students are 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 transfer onto the equivalent degree programme.

This programme is 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. Students may also wish to study their first language, with a view to becoming a professional interpreter or translator in their country of origin.

*Levels of attainment can vary from student to student for reasons outside of Swansea University’s control.
**Overseas locations are dependent on VISA restrictions per country.

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

See list of modules below:

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)