Modern Languages (Interpreting and Translating) French/German MA (Hons)

Heriot-Watt University has been teaching languages for a professional purpose for over 50 years. <br/><br/>We were ranked as the Number 1 University in Scotland for Modern Languages in the National Student Survey 2018 with the highest overall student satisfaction. We also gained the highest ranking in Scotland for employability from Modern Languages in the Guardian University Rankings 2019.<br/><br/>MA (Hons) Languages (Interpreting and Translating) is a clear example of our career-focused approach to language studies.<br/><br/>Combining the two areas of language studies for which Heriot-Watt University is best known, this degree allows you to develop highly employable interpreting and translating skills to a professional standard.<br/><br/>You will study French and German to an advanced level, learning in small class sizes in our unrivalled interpreting and translating teaching facilities. Our facilities include recently refurbished interpreting booths, which are modelled on those used by the United Nations and European Parliament, and computer labs with state-of-the-art Computer Aided Translation tools, as used by professional translators.<br/><br/>In Year 1, if it is necessary, we offer intensive courses to help bring you up to speed in your second non-native language (French or German). This tried and tested approach ensures you will be able to use your interpreting and translating skills in two non-native languages by the time you graduate. Year 2 introduces regular classes on simultaneous interpreting and Year 3 is spent abroad, on two Erasmus placements at partner institutions, immersed in your chosen languages and cultures. In Year 4 you will study advanced interpreting and translating skills and learn about political contexts and organisations.<br/><br/>This degree will prepare you for careers requiring the practical application of advanced language, communication and intercultural skills and it will teach you about the wider professional contexts in which you will use these skills.<br/><br/>For example, you will learn about the unique interpreting approaches required for various professional contexts, such as: health care situations, business situations, legal contexts, or for conferences.<br/><br/>**Accreditation**<br/>The Department of Languages and Intercultural Studies is a member of the Institute of Translation and Interpreting (ITI).<br/><br/>We are also official higher education partner of the Chartered Institute of Linguists – a professional body that maintains the highest standards for practising interpreters and translators: Chartered Institute of Linguists<br/><br/>In addition, we are founding members of CIUTI, the world’s oldest and most prestigious international association of universities who train interpreters and translators: CIUTI

Heriot-Watt are 2nd in the UK for undergraduate employability (Graduate Outcomes Survey, 2024) and 25th in the UK overall (Complete University Guide, 2025). You’ll have lifelong access to their award-winning Careers Service and join the oldest alumni association in the UK with over 166,000 members in 190 countries – The Watt Club.<br/><br/>A vibrant nightlife, eclectic food scene and plenty of shops and green space – Edinburgh has it all. It’s a safe and friendly city and a great place to be a student. That’s why it’s ranked UK’s 2nd best student-friendly city (QS Best Student Cities, 2025). <br/><br/>Moving away from home is a big decision, which is why students from England, Wales and Northern Ireland are offered a £1,500 bursary. This no-strings-attached bursary means you can visit home anytime during your first year (or spend it on something else).<br/><br/>Register for your Heriot-Watt Priority Pass to make sure you are first in line when Clearing opens, or to chat with their friendly team.