Structure and objectives of the programme

Structure and objectives of the programme

Structure: The Professional Master’s Studies Programme “Translation” has 3 parts: 1) The 1^st semester is dedicated to developing theoretical and cultural background for professional translation, introduction to the profession, to language variation (A, B, C), advancing technical skills (terminology, CAT tools). It also includes a practice of translation course (9 ECTS). 2) The 2^nd and the 3^rd semesters are providing a variety of practical translation and editing classes in different language combinations. Practice of Translation course (15 ECTS) in the 2^nd semester is devoted to students’ individual translation projects and internships (for instance, as UL web page translators), and solely to their internships as translators in the 3^rd semester (15 ECTS). 3) The fourth semester is for writing MA thesis. Objectives: The Programme is designed to equip the students with the competences and skills needed by professional translators and to prepare them for the work for private sector, as well as for the EU institutions, government departments and agencies, scientific institutions and the media both as in-house translators and freelancers. The programme focuses on its key objectives that are in line with the EMT goals:

1. To provide students with competences and skills needed in the profession in the local and the international market:

• to develop a sound theoretical background for translation

• to develop knowledge in terminology, terminography, skills in working with CAT tools

• to develop skills in translating variety of texts, focusing on law, politics and the economy

2. To develop the students’ understanding of political, economic and legal processes serving as a context of texts for translation
3. To introduce the problems of professional ethics, to educate responsible translators
4. To familiarize students with the requirements for translators in Latvian, European and global market, develop their skills in translation project management
5. To foster students’ creative thinking and independent learning, as well as to encourage their further post-graduate studies.

The Programme has budget places. The graduates acquire the professional MA degree in translation and are awarded the qualification of a translator.