Chinese Translation & Interpreting

Major: Chinese Translation & Interpreting

Program Overview: A practical, language-focused program training students in Chinese-Turkish/English translation and interpreting for business, diplomacy, tourism, and media. Combines linguistic proficiency, cultural studies, and professional skills to prepare graduates for careers in Turkey’s growing China-related sectors (trade, tourism, education). Aligns with international translation standards and modern interpreting technologies.

Key Learning Objectives:

• Achieve advanced proficiency in Chinese (Mandarin) and Turkish/English.
• Master translation techniques (written, localization, technical, literary).
• Develop interpreting skills (simultaneous, consecutive, liaison).
• Learn specialized terminology (business, legal, medical, technical).
• Understand Chinese culture, history, and cross-cultural communication.
• Gain expertise in CAT tools (Computer-Assisted Translation) and AI-assisted interpreting.
• Apply ethics and professional standards in translation/interpreting.

Core Courses:

1. Advanced Chinese Language
   • Grammar, vocabulary, and fluency (HSK 5-6 level).
2. Translation Techniques (Chinese-Turkish/English)
   • Written translation, localization, and transcreation.
3. Simultaneous & Consecutive Interpreting
   • Conference, business, and diplomatic interpreting.
4. Specialized Translation (Legal, Medical, Technical)
   • Industry-specific terminology and document translation.
5. Chinese Culture & Cross-Cultural Communication
   • Business etiquette, history, and societal norms.
6. CAT Tools & Translation Technology
   • Trados, MemoQ, and AI-assisted translation tools.
7. Business Chinese & Trade Translation
   • Contracts, negotiations, and e-commerce terminology.
8. Media & Literary Translation
   • Subtitling, dubbing, and literary works.
9. Practicum in Translation/Interpreting
   • Real-world projects with businesses, embassies, or media.
10. Capstone Project
    • Large-scale translation/interpreting project (e.g., business contract, conference interpreting).

Assessment Methods:

• Translation assignments (legal, technical, literary)
• Interpreting simulations (business meetings, conferences)
• CAT tool proficiency tests
• Cultural case studies
• Capstone project evaluations

Tools & Resources:

• Software: Trados, MemoQ, Subtitle Edit, Zoom (for remote interpreting)
• Books:
  • The Translation Studies Reader by Lawrence Venuti
  • Conference Interpreting by Robin Setton
  • Business Chinese by Li Wang

Prerequisites:

• HSK 4+ (Chinese proficiency) or equivalent.
• Strong command of Turkish/English.

Program Duration:

4 years (bachelor’s), including internships with businesses, embassies, or media.

Certifications:

• HSK 6 (Advanced Chinese Proficiency)
• ATA (American Translators Association) Certification (optional)
• UN or EU Interpreting Accreditation (for diplomatic roles)

Career Paths:

• Professional Translator (business, legal, medical, literary)
• Conference Interpreter (diplomatic, corporate events)
• Localization Specialist (software, games, websites)
• Trade & Business Consultant (China-Turkey commerce)
• Cultural Liaison (tourism, education, NGOs)
• Subtitling/Dubbing Specialist (media, entertainment)

Why This Major?

Turkey’s economic and cultural ties with China are expanding, creating high demand for Chinese language experts. This program provides specialized training in translation, interpreting, and cross-cultural communication, preparing graduates for diverse, well-paying careers in trade, diplomacy, and media. With strong industry connections and certification prep, students gain a competitive edge in a globalized job market. Ideal for those passionate about languages, culture, and international communication.