Globalisation has continued to grow at a rapid pace, and with this growth comes an even greater reliance on the translation of content between languages. In 2020, the language services industry was valued at $57 billion and is predicted to grow to $77 billion by 2025. Furthermore, it is estimated that only 5%-10% of current world demand for translation services is met. However, translation is not as simple as transferring words in one language to another. With the growth in web-based services and multimodal content platforms, transcreation, website localisation and game localisation have never been more important. These developments have been buoyed by exponential progress in language and translation technology and software to support and enhance interlingual translation, the management of complex multilingual and multimodal projects, and competing demands for high-
quality, value-for-money multilingual products delivered in short turnarounds.
This situation certainly augurs well for those planning a career as a translator. Experience has shown that students who have completed the MA Applied Translation Studies (MAATS) programme have had no difficulty entering the profession; with the skills which they acquire at Leeds, graduates are well equipped for work in this fascinating and dynamic field. The range of core and optional modules allows students to tailor the programme to their own interests and future career aspirations. They benefit from the diverse and innovative teaching methods employed. For example, the use of team translation projects in the Computer-Assisted Translation modules allows them to gain experience of a range of roles in modern language services, beyond simply translating. The knowledge and
skills acquired from modules related to machine translation equip students with the know-how to meet the challenges and opportunities brought about by the surge of AI and large language models. The electronic tools available at Leeds (translation memory tools, machine translation, subtitling software, corpora) represent an exceptional opportunity for students to acquire skills in high demand and short supply in today's translation and localisation industries.
The programme is well suited for students with different interests and career ambitions. In addition to core modules such as the Computer-assisted Translation modules and Specialised Translation, you can choose between a localisation pathway and a machine translation pathway. This allows you to focus on what you are truly passionate about, and develop the knowledge and skillsets you need to progress in your professional career in translation. You can either focus on crafting your translation and localisation skills, or dive into the world of language technologies if you are more ‘tech-savvy’.
(Part-Time)
[Learning Outcomes, Transferable (Key) Skills, Assessment]
View Timetable
Candidates will be required to study the following compulsory modules
| Code | Title | Credits | Semester | Pass for Progression |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MODL5026M | Methods and Approaches in Translation Studies | 15 | Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) | PFP |
| MODL5210M | Introduction to Computer-Assisted Translation | 15 | Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) | PFP |
Candidates will be required to study the following compulsory modules
Candidates will be required to study one of the following modules (one Specialised Translation A, or one
Specialised Translation B in one language direction only and for which they have passed the entry-test).
| Code | Title | Credits | Semester | Pass for Progression |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MODL5910M | Specialised Translation, Domains A | 15 | Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) | |
| MODL5920M | Specialised Translation, Domains B | 15 | Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) |
Candidates will be required to take 45 credits from the following baskets of optional modules. Candidates will be advised on appropriate choices of optional modules at the introductory meeting for all MAATS students
BASKET 1: Translation Practice
| Code | Title | Credits | Semester | Pass for Progression |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MODL5006M | Introduction to Screen Translation | 15 | Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) | |
| MODL5019M | Introduction to Legal Translation | 15 | Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) | |
| MODL5030M | Literary Translation | 15 | Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) | |
| MODL5095M | Easy-to-Read Translation | 15 | Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) | |
| MODL5911M | Specialised Translation, Domains A (additional language direction) | 15 | Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) | |
| MODL5921M | Specialised Translation, Domains B (additional language direction) | 15 | Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) |
Please note that optional modules run subject to enrolments. An optional module may not run if only a low number of students choose it
Basket 2 Translation skills
| Code | Title | Credits | Semester | Pass for Progression |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MODL5007M | Corpus Linguistics for Translators | 15 | Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) | |
| MODL5017M | Introduction to Interpreting Skills | 15 | Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) | |
| MODL5018M | Genres in Translation | 15 | Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) | |
| MODL5240M | Introduction to Dubbing and Voice Over | 15 | Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) | |
| MODL5250M | Respeaking: Reporting And Live Subtitling | 15 | Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) |
Please note that optional modules run subject to enrolments. An optional module may not run if only a low number of students choose it
Basket 3 Management and Professional skills
| Code | Title | Credits | Semester | Pass for Progression |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MODL5009M | English for Translators | 15 | Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) | |
| MODL5722M | Language and Communication in the Digital Age | 30 | Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) | |
| MODL5723M | Managing Business Across Cultural Contexts | 30 | Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) | |
| MODL5724M | International Organisations: Context, Theory and Practice | 30 | Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) |
Please note that optional modules run subject to enrolments. An optional module may not run if only a low number of students choose it
(Part-Time)
[Learning Outcomes, Transferable (Key) Skills, Assessment]
View Timetable
Candidates will be required to study the following compulsory module
| Code | Title | Credits | Semester | Pass for Progression |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MODL5235M | Advanced Computer-Assisted Translation | 15 | Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) | PFP |
Candidates will be required to study 15 credits from two of the following optional modules:
| Code | Title | Credits | Semester | Pass for Progression |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MODL5190M | Machine Translation and AI | 15 | Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) | PFP |
| MODL5245M | Localisation and Project Management | 15 | Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) | PFP |
Please note that optional modules run subject to enrolments. An optional module may not run if only a low number of students choose it
Candidates will be required to study 15 credits from two of the following modules (one Specialised Translation A, or one Specialised Translation B in one language direction only and for which they have passed the entry-test). Candidates cannot study the same modules that they studied in Year 1
| Code | Title | Credits | Semester | Pass for Progression |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MODL5910M | Specialised Translation, Domains A | 15 | Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) | |
| MODL5920M | Specialised Translation, Domains B | 15 | Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) |
Candidates will be required to take one of these project modules
| Code | Title | Credits | Semester | Pass for Progression |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MODL5420M | Dissertation: Translation Studies | 45 | 1 Jan to 31 Aug | |
| MODL5421M | Extended Translations | 45 | 1 Jan to 31 Aug |
With the approval of the programme director, candidates may choose any remaining credits from elective modules offered within the School of Languages, Cultures and Societies, the Language Centre, or elsewhere in the University.
Last updated: 25/04/2025 15:57:53
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