Translation Studies
Bangor , United Kingdom
Master of Arts in Translation Studies
Bangor University (Prifysgol Bangor)
Translation Studies
MA Translation Studies at Bangor University — Program Overview
The MA in Translation Studies at Bangor University is both a theory- and professionally oriented Masters degree that provides a robust foundation for a career in translation, intercultural communication, and the language industries. Taught by leading academic researchers alongside Bangor's own professional translators, interpreters, and terminologists, the program combines rigorous scholarship with hands-on professional training.
You will gain the critical and practical knowledge required to work in translation while exploring a diversity of translation-related professions and career routes, including audiovisual translation, video game localisation, literary translation, interpreting, and freelance work. The program is closely linked with the local translation industry and professional associations, ensuring real-world relevance throughout your studies.
Bangor University is uniquely positioned in a bilingual region where both Welsh and English are widely used, enriching your experience of studying translation in an authentic multilingual environment. The School of Modern Languages offers supervision in a wide variety of areas and languages, including Welsh, Spanish, Catalan, Chinese, English, French, Galician, German, and Italian.
Key Program Highlights
- Study in a genuinely bilingual Welsh-English environment that brings translation theory to life in everyday practice
- Learn from active researchers and professional translators, interpreters, and terminologists on the university staff
- Explore diverse career paths including audiovisual translation, video game localisation, literary translation, and interpreting
- Clear pathway to doctoral study with practice-led or research-based PhD options available at Bangor
Curriculum and Modules — MA Translation Studies
The MA Translation Studies program is structured across three semesters. In Semesters 1 and 2, you take two compulsory modules and one optional module each semester. The dissertation in Semester 3 consolidates your learning through independent research or an extended translation practice project.
Translation Theory and Critical Debates
20 CreditsThis core module introduces the theoretical and methodological underpinnings for research and key critical debates in Translation Studies, providing the scholarly foundation for the rest of the program.
Research Methods in Translation Studies
20 CreditsProvides the necessary foundations, training, and tools to design and carry out qualitative, quantitative, or ethnographic research within translation studies, preparing you for your dissertation project.
Translation Practice Portfolio
20 CreditsA practice-led module where you investigate various aspects of the translation profession and work on an extensive practical translation portfolio in your chosen language specialism.
Professional Translation and the Language Industries
20 CreditsDevelops a comprehensive understanding of key elements of the translation profession, including terminology management, computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools, and working as a freelance translator.
Dissertation
60 CreditsA major independent project that may take the form of a theoretical research-based dissertation on any aspect of Translation Studies, or a proposed translation of 10,000 words accompanied by a 5,000-word critical commentary.
Optional Elective Module
20 CreditsChoose from a wide range of optional modules spanning medieval to contemporary literature, creative and digital industries, and language and linguistics areas including Welsh linguistics.
Sample Elective Options
Admission Requirements for MA Translation Studies
Entry to the MA Translation Studies program is based on academic qualifications, language competence, and relevant experience. Applicants with equivalent qualifications or professional experience are also considered on individual merit. Contact Uni4Edu for guidance on your specific eligibility.
Academic Requirements
- Undergraduate DegreeA 2:ii (Lower Second Class) honours degree or equivalent in a relevant subject such as Modern Languages or Translation
- Language CompetenceDegree-level competence in at least two modern languages (e.g. Welsh, Spanish, Chinese, English, French, Galician, German)
- Relevant ExperienceApplicants with equivalent qualifications or professional experience will be judged on individual merit
- International QualificationsEquivalent international qualifications are accepted; contact Uni4Edu for country-specific requirements
- Personal StatementA statement outlining your motivation, relevant language skills, and career goals in translation
English Language Requirements
- IELTSOverall score of 6.5 with no element below 6.0
- Pre-sessional CourseStudents with IELTS 5.5 overall may take a summer pre-sessional course at the English Language Centre (ELCOS)
- Other TestsEquivalent scores in TOEFL, PTE Academic, or other accepted English language tests; contact Uni4Edu for details
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
Bangor University offers a range of scholarships and bursaries for international postgraduate students, with over GBP 1,000,000 in funding available annually for new and returning students. Contact Uni4Edu for personalised guidance on the funding opportunities best suited to your profile.
Bangor University International Scholarship
Up to GBP 3,000Available for all international postgraduate taught students. No separate application is required — all eligible applicants are automatically considered based on course choice, academic performance, personal statement, and references.
Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme
Full Funding (tuition fees, living stipend, travel costs)Jointly funded by Bangor University and the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission for eligible students from developing Commonwealth countries pursuing a one-year taught Masters degree.
Chevening Scholarships
Full Funding (tuition fees, monthly stipend, travel, arrival allowance)UK government-funded scholarships for outstanding emerging leaders from eligible countries worldwide. Covers the full cost of a one-year Masters program at Bangor University.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects for Translation Studies Graduates
Graduates of the MA Translation Studies are prepared for a range of careers as translators within public organisations, private commercial companies, and translation agencies. The program also provides excellent preparation for careers in other areas requiring advanced language and communication skills, such as marketing, publishing, journalism, and education.
Potential Career Roles
Typical Employers and Organisations
Rankings and Recognition
Bangor University is an established institution founded in 1884 with a strong reputation for research excellence and student satisfaction. The university is recognised in major global and national league tables, and its research in the humanities and languages feeds directly into postgraduate teaching.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Agriculture and Forestry | QS World University Rankings by Subject | Top 150 |
| Psychology | QS World University Rankings by Subject | Top 350 |
| Environmental Sciences | QS World University Rankings by Subject | Top 350 |
| Linguistics (School of Modern Languages) | National Rankings | Contact Uni4Edu for current data |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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