Simultaneous Interpretation (Part-time) (PGCert)
The Simultaneous Interpretation (PGCert) is a unique part-time programme designed for those looking to develop their skills in simultaneous interpretation. Whether you are a professional translator, an aspiring interpreter, or someone with a passion for language, this course offers a blend of vocational training and practical experience to prepare you for a career in this dynamic field.
Delivered by the Welsh Services Centre at the ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø, and developed in collaboration with Cymdeithas Cyfieithwyr Cymru, the programme ensures high-quality training tailored to the needs of bilingualism and multilingualism in Wales and beyond. It provides an excellent foundation for those working in public service interpreting, language planning, or other translation professions.
The course explores the tools and techniques required for professional interpreting skills, helping you to build confidence and competence in real-time translation settings. Through small-group workshops, hands-on practice, and feedback from experienced interpreters, you will develop a deep understanding of translation methodologies and the practical aspects of the profession.
Key skills such as intonation, vocabulary management, and stamina are introduced early in the programme, ensuring you are fully equipped to meet the demands of the role. In addition, you will have opportunities to gain industry experience through a 35-hour work placement, allowing you to apply your knowledge in real-world scenarios and develop your professional network.
This qualification is perfect for those wanting to contribute to language planning and policy, as well as individuals keen to work in government, local councils, or translation agencies. With its combination of academic learning and applied training, the Simultaneous Interpretation (PGCert) is a stepping stone to a successful career in the translation and interpreting industry.
Course details
- Part-time
- Welsh
Why choose this course?
What you will learn
Our teaching approach combines practical experience with academic learning to prepare students for professional roles in simultaneous interpretation. The programme is tailored to develop the specific skills needed for success in this field, offering hands-on opportunities and personalised feedback to ensure confidence in real-world applications.
In the first year, you will learn the foundations of simultaneous interpretation, focusing on developing key skills like intonation, stamina, and vocabulary management. Modules will guide you through the use of translation tools, the basics of language planning, and strategies to deliver high-quality translations in various settings.
(10 credits)
(20 credits)
(30 credits)
Course Disclaimer
-
The modules outlined above provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this course based on recent academic teaching. We continuously review our courses to ensure quality enhancement and to manage our resources. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand. Where your course includes optional modules, these are to provide an element of choice within the course. The availability of optional modules may vary from year to year and will be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved. This means the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
You’ll typically complete 120 credits per year of study on a full-time course. For more information visit our Student Agreement.
Ratings and Rankings
Staff
Our People
You will be taught and supported by a wide range of professional staff and teams here to help you get the university experience you are looking for. Our teaching staff were ranked 2nd in Wales for Teaching, Assessment and Feedback and Academic Support (NSS 2024) meaning that the support and feedback you get will help you learn and develop strong academic skills. Our students have placed us 1st in Wales for Learning Opportunities and Student Voice (NSS 2024) meaning that there are a wide range of opportunities available to enhance your studies and that students play an active role in shaping their learning experiences. Our commitment to your learning has seen our students place us as 1st in Wales and joint 3rd in the UK for student satisfaction (Times Higher Education, 2024, ‘Overall Positivity’ measure). Find out more about our academic staff who teach across our courses.
Further information
-
All applicants must be fluent orally in both Welsh and English. A BA degree is usually requested, but your qualifications and professional experience can be discussed with the Programme Director if in doubt.
-
This is a practical, vocational certificate; therefore, the main emphasis is placed on assessing the practical skills of individuals in their simultaneous interpretation. The simultaneous interpretation tests are recorded using mobile recording equipment. In addition, individuals will be asked to complete written work on their progress and experience on the course and in the workplace.
1) Introduction to Simultaneous Interpretation: two 5-minute Simultaneous Interpretation tests each (80%), Report 1,000 words (20%)
2) Simultaneous Interpretation: Practice and Practice: two 10-minute CAP tests each (80%) oral presentation (20%)
3) Professional Simultaneous Interpretation: two 10-minute CAP tests each (60%), a 3,000-word reflective essay based on 35-hour work experience (40%) -
This qualification was developed in close collaboration with Cymdeithas Cyfieithwyr Cymru and experienced simultaneous interpreters. This vocational program offers students 35 hours work experience.
-
Career Opportunities
- Translate
- Simultaneous interpretation
- Working for government, county councils, translation units, language enterprises, translation companies
Many of the individuals following the programme are experienced translators keen to hone their simultaneous interpretation skills and pursue on-the-job training. On the other hand, some are bilingual and interested in translation, but come from other fields such as teaching or subtitling.
Some of our alumni have gained promotion in the workplace and become senior translators after gaining this qualification; others have ventured into simultaneous interpretation for the first time and started working with a translation company; others have started their own businesses specialising in simultaneous interpretation.