Module Directory

Please note: LA067-6-FY will be available in the 2026/27 academic year, but ONLY to those wishing to translate between FRENCH / ITALIAN / SPANISH and English.

This module will provide an introduction to the theory and practice of translation, interpreting and subtitling, offering students key professional skills that are highly sought after in the fast-growing language services industry.

The module is offered with the combination of English and one of: French, Italian, and Spanish.

a) Translation between French/Italian/Spanish/and English

Students will develop an awareness of the multiple dimensions of meaning of written texts (both in English and in the foreign language), representing different genres and text types, including journalistic, promotional and literary texts. Students will also develop the ability to identify the texts’ most salient features and reflecting on context, target audience and style, analysing and discussing different alternatives. They will also refine and deepen their understanding of both their own and the target language and culture.

b) Interpreting

While the main emphasis of this module will be on translation, students will also be introduced to consecutive and liaison (bilateral) interpreting. They will acquire the ability to listen actively and analytically, memorise short statements, summarise, interpret and communicate effectively in both languages. They will learn to use interpreters’ strategies in order to resolve potential problems and look at practical issues like body language, anticipation, condensation, diplomacy, stress management and confident performance. They will also refine their presentational skills and receive a general introduction to note-taking techniques.

c) Subtitling:

Students will be given an insight into the basic principles and specific challenges of subtitling and will be able to use and test their translation strategies by subtitling short clips with the professional software, Wincaps Q4.

By the end of this module, students will be expected to be able to demonstrate: 

1. Translation skills in both source and target languages to a high level in different registers. 


2. The ability to reflect on context, purpose, target audience and style of texts.


3. Competency in commenting succinctly on translation choices.


4. An understanding of the practices of consecutive and bi-lateral interpreting 


5. The ability to speak publically in both source and target languages.


6. The ability to listen actively and analytically, memorise short statements, predict the flow of argument, summarise and condense, use formal expression, and facilitate communication effectively in both source and target languages. 


7. Awareness of the principles of subtitling and the basic subtitling techniques using professional software. 


8. Full competency in working productively, resourcefully and efficiently alone or as part of a team.

This module will be delivered via a combination of lectures, seminars and hands-on practical classes, alternating between the different skills.

The subtitling component will be taught in the Autumn term only.

The translation and interpreting components will be taught in both the Autumn and in the Spring Terms. There will be one interpreting revision class in the Summer Term. 

Autumn Term

4 hours a week in total, comprising:

• 1 hour: Translation lecture
• 1 hour: Translation/Interpreting (language-specific seminar)
• 2 hours: Subtitling class

Spring Term

1 hour per week:

• 1 hour: Translation/Interpreting (language-specific seminar)

Summer Term

A 1-hour interpreting revision class in Week 30

Self-study: about 6 hours per week additional regular independent study and practice essential. This module requires a strong commitment to independent reading and translation, and independent regular practical training of interpreting and subtitling skills.

Students have the opportunity of lab work, group work and presentations in class. Emphasis is on the development of practical skills together with the reflection on underlying issues.