This core module will introduce you to translation theory and methodology. You will find out about the latest research into translation theory, as well as current methodologies relating technology and professional practice.

Typically, topics covered include:

• Translation in historical context
• Equivalence and target-language relation
• The cultural dimension of translation
• Computer-Assisted translation tools
• Machine translation post-editing
• Translation in professional environments (from literary to technical translation)
• Translation quality and proof-reading
• Translation project management

This module will prepare students for applied translation practice in the language combination of their choice and in a variety of specialist areas (including literary, legal, technical and medical translation). Through weekly practice, students will also an gain understanding of the various facets of the translation editorial process, acquire knowledge of translation notes, and will learn to reflect on their practice to become independent problem solvers in the professional and academic fields of translation.

The Translation Project provides an opportunity for you to dive deep into a topic that is of particular interest to you and which is agreed in consultation with a supervisor. You will receive support and supervision from one or two members of staff from the Department of Languages and Cultures who will support you in your translation project.

The project should include the translation of a text, and could be based around a topic that is relevant to your work, your personal interests or something you have studied on the course and which you want to explore further.

This module covers a range of research skills specific to Modern Languages that are designed to support you in researching and writing your dissertation.

Typically, topics include:

• Beginning research
• Academic research process
• Mapping a research project
• Abstract writing
• Resource evaluation
• Research paper attendance
• Working with theory
• Advanced presentation techniques
• Work in progress symposium

This module is assessed via a portfolio.

This module will prepare students for applied translation practice in the language combination of their choice and in a variety of specialist areas (including literary, legal, technical and medical translation), depending on current teaching provision. Through weekly practice, students will also gain understanding of the various facets of the translation editorial process, acquire knowledge of translation notes, and will learn to reflect on their practice to become independent problem solvers in the professional and academic fields of translation.

This module is available to students who want to study a second language, parallel to their core Applied Translation module.

The Independent Study Unit (ISU) offers students the option to replace one of their taught modules (excluding the compulsory modules) with an ISU. ISUs offer a period of directed, but independent reading in an area chosen by the student and in which the department is able to provide supervision. The module gives students the chance to determine their own area of research with their supervisors. The module is then assessed by a researched essay on the mutually-agreed topic of research.

Intercultural business communication plays a key role in the global economy and world commerce as it considers cultural differences between international business partners and clients. This interdisciplinary course examines how communication is affected by different values, attitudes and beliefs, in the context of our volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous environment.

The ability to effectively interact, work and develop meaningful relationships with professionals across different cultures and social groups is essential in a global workforce. Drawing on interdisciplinary research, this course will provide you with the necessary awareness, know-how and practical skills needed to become more effective at intercultural interactions. You will draw on various models to analyse your own experiences in order to develop a personal development plan to address effective interactions at work in the face of significant challenges. Studying intercultural business communication fosters an understanding of your own cultural, linguistic and communication related background. This may benefit future careers that operate within a multicultural context.

This introductory interpreting module complements the skills developed in the Translation studies elements of the MA and introduces students to the daily requirements of a professional translator/interpreter. It aims to provide students with the basic skills involved in understanding a message and conveying it orally into another language. Students will consolidate and expand their linguistic command of different fields with regards to style, register, communication requirements and technical skills. It will prepare them to deal with the specific pressure that unfolds in different interpreting situations.

This placement module enables students to gain professional experience and to reflect critically on that experience. The optional module constitutes a structured period of work-based learning.

The work placement will provide the opportunity for students to take responsibility for their learning experience in a language-related professional environment. We can assist in organising placements for students in reputable language services companies in the UK. However, the department cannot guarantee a placement will be found and students are strongly encouraged to source their own placements, subject to departmental approval, and these may be overseas.

Work placements provide an invaluable insight into the work of professional linguists, are valued highly by employers and can greatly enhance students' employability in a competitive market.

Students will be responsible for any additional costs associated with undertaking a placement, such as travel and accommodation costs.

If you are unsuccessful in securing a suitable placement, you will be able to switch to an alternative optional module.

The practice of literary translation involves creative and critical approaches to texts in an effort to remediate works across languages, cultures and places. This module aims to introduce students to the "creative turn" in literary translation studies through critical analysis and creative practice. To do so, students will explore past and current creative writers who have used translation in their writing, or the works of translators who have reflected on translation in the form of literary essays or translation memoirs.

The aim of the module is to encourage students to develop the writing skills necessary to write quality translations in the English language, as well as to explore the creative and critical possibilities which translation can afford. Although students will be invited to experiment with creative writing via the medium of translation in the module, they will be given a choice to do a written analysis of an existing creative translation in their assessment.