Major: Translation and Interpreting (Çeviri ve Tercümanlık)
Program Overview
A practical and theoretical program designed to train students in written translation and oral interpreting across multiple languages and specialized fields. Combines linguistic proficiency, cultural competence, and technical skills to prepare graduates for careers in translation agencies, international organizations, diplomacy, and multimedia localization in Turkey’s multilingual and globalized environment.
Key Learning Objectives
- Master translation techniques (written, literary, technical, legal, medical).
- Develop simultaneous and consecutive interpreting skills.
- Learn specialized terminology in fields like law, medicine, business, and technology.
- Gain expertise in computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools.
- Understand cultural and ethical considerations in translation.
- Explore localization and multimedia translation (subtitling, dubbing).
- Apply research and glossary-building techniques.
Core Courses
- Introduction to Translation Studies
- Theories, history, and ethics of translation.
- Written Translation (Language Pairs)
- General and specialized translation (e.g., English-Turkish, French-Turkish).
- Simultaneous Interpreting
- Real-time interpreting for conferences, meetings, and media.
- Consecutive Interpreting
- Note-taking, memory techniques, and public speaking.
- Specialized Translation
- Legal, medical, technical, and business translation.
- Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT) Tools
- SDL Trados, MemoQ, and subtitling software.
- Localization and Multimedia Translation
- Subtitling, dubbing, and video game localization.
- Cultural Studies and Intercultural Communication
- Cultural nuances, idioms, and context in translation.
- Terminology Management and Glossary Building
- Research, databases, and specialized dictionaries.
- Ethics and Professional Practice in Translation
- Confidentiality, accuracy, and professional standards.
- Practicum in Translation and Interpreting
- Internships with translation agencies, NGOs, or international organizations.
- Capstone Project
- Translate a book chapter, interpret a conference, or localize a multimedia project.
Assessment Methods
- Translation assignments (general and specialized texts)
- Interpreting simulations (simultaneous/consecutive)
- CAT tool projects (translation memory, terminology databases)
- Localization and subtitling projects
- Capstone project presentations
Tools & Resources
- Software: SDL Trados, MemoQ, Aegisub, Audacity
- Platforms: ProZ, TranslatorsCafé, localization platforms
- Books:
- The Translation Studies Reader by Lawrence Venuti
- Interpreting: An Introduction by Franz Pöchhacker
- The Subtitler’s Handbook by Ivarsson and Carroll
Prerequisites
- Fluency in at least two languages (e.g., Turkish and English, French, German, Arabic).
- Interest in languages, cultures, and communication.
Program Duration
4 years (bachelor’s), including practical training and internships.
Certifications (Optional)
- Certified Translation Professional (e.g., ATA in the U.S., BDÜ in Turkey)
- Certified Interpreter (e.g., court or medical interpreting)
- Localization Certification (e.g., Localization Institute)
Career Paths
- Translator (freelance, in-house, or agency-based)
- Interpreter (conference, court, medical, or community interpreting)
- Localization Specialist (software, games, multimedia)
- Subtitler/Dubbing Specialist (film, TV, streaming platforms)
- Technical Translator (legal, medical, engineering documents)
- Cultural Consultant (international business, NGOs)
- Translation Project Manager (agencies, corporate teams)
- Language Teacher/Trainer (translation or interpreting skills)
Why This Major?
Turkey’s strategic location and multilingual society create high demand for skilled translators and interpreters in global business, diplomacy, media, and tourism. This program provides hands-on training in translation technologies and interpreting techniques, preparing graduates for diverse, rewarding careers in a globalized world. With strong language proficiency and cultural competence, students gain a competitive edge in a dynamic and essential field. Ideal for those passionate about languages, communication, and bridging cultures.
