Interpreting certificates are not offered
fully online because interpreting requires real-time communication;
however, students interested in multilingual careers may pursue an
online certificate in translation, focusing on written communication. A
certificate program typically addresses English and Spanish
translations. However, programs are offered for translating Arabic,
Chinese, Russian, French and German.
Certificate in Translation Overview
Interpreting, unlike translating, deals in real-time spoken word
communication across language barriers, and training programs are not
fully online. A few medical
interpreter
certificate programs allow students to complete the medical terminology
course online, but the interpretation coursework for a certificate is
generally completed in person. Both interpreting and translating
certificate programs require fluency in English and Spanish for
admission. Candidates for an online translation certificate are screened
through a telephone interview or written essay to demonstrate bilingual
fluency. Coursework covers skills such as comparative analysis between
two languages, editing procedures and the the translation process.
Translation certificate programs are offered in online-only format or
a combination of an on-site and online courses. The program can be
completed within six months. Students conduct online research for
assignments, engage in online discussions and submit translations as
assigned by the instructor.
Courses are administered to students through an online course
management system such as Moodle. Students have access to assignments
and research sources anytime of the day or night.
List of Common Interpreter Certification Courses
After an initial assessment test on the language combination chosen
for study, students begin the program with an introductory course on
translation theory. Translation assignments include material such as
academic texts, business proposals, and medical and legal documents.
Introduction to Translation Theory Course
Fundamental courses in translation include translation ethics, types
of translation and the history of translation. Students are introduced
to the use of translation in legal, medical and financial businesses.
Medical and Legal Translation Course
Research in medical terminology and legal terms prepare students for
proper translations. Topics in the medical field include patient
education and drug development. Legal areas discussed include corporate
tax liability and litigation.
Financial Translation Course
Sentence structure and grammar in business and financial terminology
is the focus of this course. Proper translation in the target language
is necessary so financial transactions are executed in the proper
sequence. Students study topics in credit, stock market and securities
and financial annual reports.
The need for professional interpreters is increasing as companies
expand business overseas. Graduates with a translation certificate can
find employment in government agencies, advertising and publishing
companies and education. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a
median wage of $38,850 for interpreters and translators in 2008 (
www.bls.gov).
Additional courses for an advanced certificate may enable students to
take the American Translators Association (ATA) certification exam.
Translators looking to branch into interpreting can take weekend,
evening or intensive short-term certificate programs at community
colleges and universities.
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