Translation and Interpreting (sub-programme of academic programme English Studies)

Degree to be achieved: Master Degree of Humanities in Translation
Duration of studies: 2 years
Type of studies: Full time
Amount of credits: 120 ECTS
European Qualifications Framework (EQF) level: Level 7
International Standard Classification of Education (ISCED) level: Level 7
Language of instruction: English
Accreditation: The programme is accredited till 07.12.2029. 

Tuition fee 
EU/EEA/Swiss citizens and their family members; Long Term Resident EU - 2500 EUR per Year
Other сountry citizens - 3700 EUR per Year

Please note that the tuition fee may change in 2025. 

This study programme aims to deliver advanced academic education in translation and interpreting, providing students with the knowledge and skills essential for today’s dynamic world and competitive job market. The core courses include the theory of translation and interpreting, alongside English studies, fostering an interdisciplinary approach to the acquired knowledge. Elective courses offer opportunities to specialize in various aspects of translation and interpreting.

With English as the primary language of instruction and assignments, and Latvian serving as the target or source language for translation and interpreting, the programme is fully accessible to international students who possess proficiency in Latvian.

Study period and classes time

The full – time degree programme covers two academic years. Classes are in the evenings of working days from 4.30pm (or 6.15pm) till 9.30pm.

Programme structure

The Master’s degree programme spans two years (four semesters) and comprises coursework and a research thesis. During the first three semesters, the emphasis is on deepening knowledge through a diverse array of courses. These include lectures, independent study, and seminars conducted in computer and interpreting labs, fostering a dynamic and engaging learning environment.

Core courses (54 credits) cover a broad spectrum of subjects such as Translation Theories and Practice, Discourse Analysis and Critical Discourse Analysis Studies, Literature and Society, Foreign Language Acquisition: Theory and Practice, and Research Methodologies. Elective courses (33 credits) allow students to specialize in specific areas, with options such as Translation of Journalistic Texts, Translation of Economics Texts, Translation of Legal Texts, Audiovisual Translation, Consecutive and Simultaneous Interpreting I, II, and III, and Introduction to Computational Linguistics.

An optional internship (3 credits) is available during the third semester, providing practical experience in the field. The fourth semester is dedicated to the research thesis (30 credits), allowing students to explore a selected area of interest in depth. Additionally, some components of the programme can be completed abroad through participation in student exchange programmes.

Career opportunity

The programme provides students with the skills and knowledge to pursue a wide range of career opportunities as translators or interpreters. Graduates can find employment in EU, international, and local institutions, public administration agencies, translation and terminology centres, non-governmental organizations, media, or publishing, or establish themselves as freelance professionals.

Additionally, the hands-on experience gained during the internship broadens students' understanding of the field and enhances their future employment prospects. For those interested in further academic pursuits, the Master’s degree also provides a strong foundation for continuing studies in a PhD programme.

More information about study programme and Study plan

ERASMUS+ exchange possibilities

UL full-time students, regardless of their citizenship, have the opportunity to apply for the ERASMUS + exchange program for studies or/and traineeship.  

More information:

ERASMUS + study mobility 
ERASMUS + traineeship moblity  

Admission requirements

1.Previous education:

Version 1 of previous education: first cycle higher education* or equivalent higher education in linguistics and literary studies, other humanities or teacher education (language, literature and/or culture teacher education); formula for calculating the competition score: entrance examination (1 x 1000 = 1000), minimum score for admission in the entrance examination – 600. Additional condition for the entrance examination: a letter of motivation must be submitted;

Version 2 of previous education: first cycle higher education* or equivalent higher education in another field and one year of professional/creative experience in a field related to the humanities; formula for calculating the competition score: entrance examination (1 x 1000 = 1000), minimum score for admission in the entrance examination – 600. Additional condition for the entrance examination: a letter of motivation must be submitted

Note: must submit curriculum vitae (CV) for confirmation of professional/creative experience

Version 3 of previous education: first-cycle higher education* or equivalent higher education in another field and one year of professional/creative experience in a field related to the humanities; pass of entrance examination by submitting a written 1 page motivation letter

2.The average grade in study courses must be 60% of the maximum. 

3. English language proficiency (for foreigners who have obtained their previous education abroad)

4. All grades must be passing (at least 4 on a 10-point scale).

5. Latvian language skills at least at level C1. The level of language skills is checked in the entrance examination.

*Bachelor’s degree or a diploma proving equivalent level of education 

Enrolment criteria (for students competing for the state-financed study place)

For applicants who have completed previous education in linguistics, literature or cultural studies: 

1. The average grade obtained in final exams (40%);

2. The grade point average of undergraduate studies (60%).

For applicants who have completed previous education in other fields: 

1. The average grade obtained in final exams (35%);

2. The grade point average of undergraduate studies (35%); 

3. Entrance examination (30%)

Please note! Only EU/EEA/Swiss citizens and EU long-term resident status holders can compete for a state-financed study place.
    
As a part of the admission process applicants will be asked to participate in an online interview.

Autumn Intake (application start: 21 Nov 2024; studies start in Sept 2025)

Full-time

Contact person for more information

Director of the Programme                            
Assoc. prof. Zigrīda Vinčela
E-mail: zigrida.vincela@lu.lv

Coordinator of the Programme
Jeļena Sevastjanova
E-mail: jelena.sevastjanova@lu.lv
Phone: +371 67034924
Faculty of Humanities
4A Visvalža Street, Riga, LV-1050

The programme has been developed within the framework of the project "Design of Internationally Competitive Study Programmes Promoting the Development of the National Economy of Latvia at the University of Latvia" (project No. 8.2.1.0 / 18 / A / 015).