Swansea University

What you'll study

The programme balances practical language acquisition and applied translation/interpreting training with the study of English literature across periods and genres. You will typically choose one or two modern languages from those offered by the department (for example French, German, Spanish, Italian and Welsh where available) and follow a progressive pathway from core competence to specialised skills.

• Core language modules – focused work on speaking, listening, reading and writing, grammar consolidation and advanced communicative practice.
• Translation and interpreting – introduction to translation theory, practice-based translation workshops, sight translation and consecutive/liaison interpreting, and modules on specialised translation (business, legal, literary or audiovisual) depending on pathway choices.
• Literature modules – studies in English literature spanning historical periods (medieval, early modern, Romantic, Victorian, modern and contemporary) and thematic modules such as comparative literature, genre studies and critical theory.
• Linguistics and culture – optional modules in sociolinguistics, language and identity, media, and cultural studies to deepen understanding of context for translation and literary interpretation.
• Year abroad and placements – a year or term abroad for language immersion, study or work placements is a normal feature; shorter work placements with local or international organisations are also supported.
• Research project / dissertation – a final-year dissertation or translation portfolio which allows you to pursue an independent research question or produce a substantive piece of translated work with critical commentary.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold strong secondary school qualifications or an equivalent qualification. Typical entrants will have a good standard in a modern language at higher secondary level or relevant prior study in languages. Universities generally expect proficiency in English for non-native speakers and may require a recognised English language qualification at an appropriate level.

Acceptable qualifications include A-levels, BTECs, the International Baccalaureate or other recognised equivalents. Mature applicants and those with relevant work or life experience are considered. If you are unsure whether your background fits the programme, contact the admissions team to discuss your individual circumstances.

Career prospects

Graduates develop transferable skills in communication, intercultural awareness, analysis and independent research that are valued across many sectors. Common career paths include:

• Professional translation and interpreting (freelance or in-house)
• Publishing, editing and copywriting
• International business, marketing and localisation
• Diplomacy, international organisations and NGOs
• Media, subtitling and audiovisual localisation
• Teaching languages or literature and further academic study (MA/PhD)
• Public sector roles, including policy, cultural heritage and community engagement

Work placements, the year abroad and industry contacts facilitated by the department help graduates move into these areas or continue to postgraduate specialisms in translation studies, applied linguistics or literary research.

Why study at Swansea University

Swansea offers access to active modern languages and English literature teaching teams with research expertise across translation studies, comparative literature and applied linguistics. The university supports language learning with dedicated resources, language labs and opportunities for study or work placements overseas. Students benefit from a campus and regional context where bilingualism and cultural exchange are prominent, and from collaborative links across the School of Arts and Humanities that allow interdisciplinary study.

The programme emphasises practical employability alongside academic study, with opportunities to build a professional portfolio of translation work, interpreting practice and a substantial final-year project. Small-group seminars, language conversation classes and staff feedback help develop the independent skills required for careers in international communication and literary fields.