Applied Modern Languages and Translating: Chinese/French

Applied modern languages and translating with Chinese and French at Heriot-Watt University combines professional translation training with high-level competence in two of the world's most significant languages. Translation is a skilled professional practice that requires far more than bilingualism: it demands a deep understanding of both source and target languages and cultures, the ability to make creative and precise choices under communicative pressure, and proficiency with the industry-standard technologies that professional translators use daily. This four-year full-time MA (Hons) includes a sandwich placement year and embedded work placement experience, grounding your language and translation training in professional reality.

You will develop high-level reading, writing, and communicative skills in both Chinese and French alongside specialist translation training in professional contexts spanning legal, commercial, technical, and literary domains. The applied orientation of the programme means you will engage with translation as a professional practice from early in your studies, developing your skills through real translation tasks using industry-standard computer-assisted translation technology. Heriot-Watt's ranking among the top programmes in Scotland for languages reflects the quality of its language and translation education.

A typical entry tariff of 184 UCAS points reflects the academic selectivity of this professionally oriented programme. Graduates from applied modern languages and translation degrees are exceptionally well placed for careers as professional translators and interpreters, language specialists in international organisations, localisation project managers, language technology specialists, and in a wide range of international business, diplomatic, and cultural roles where high-level dual language competence is indispensable. Many continue to postgraduate study in translation studies or linguistics.