MPS in Translation
Department of Communication
College of Arts and Humanities

The Master of Professional Studies in Translation (MPS in Translation) is designed to equip students with the required competencies to compete successfully for work as specialized translators, project managers, or administrators of language services.The MPS in Translation is a two-year curriculum that students may begin in the fall 2013 with introductory coursework. Specialization will be offered in the second year through two tracks that will be offered in fall of 2014. The MPS in Translation offers two tracks:

Translation

• Example skills include the translation of specialized texts in health, legal and political settings, including the translation of documents and websites for major corporations, international organizations, and government ministries.

Translation and Localization Project Management

• Example skills include the administration of large-scale translation projects in these settings, as well as projects involving cutting-edge translation technology and terminology work.

You will specialize in translating written communication, developing advanced knowledge of the role of technology in the translation processes, or focusing on acquiring management skill sets. Instruction for the 41-credit MPS in Translation includes:

• 21 credits of core training in the fundamental skills of translation, translation for specific domains, translation studies, the translation profession, intercultural communication, and background knowledge in at least one of the following communication contexts: political communication, legal communication, health communication, or specific domains that correspond to demands of specific language markets;
• 20 credits of advanced training in translation, training in computer-assisted translation tools, translation studies, intercultural communication, and advanced study in at least one of the following communication contexts: political communication, legal communication, or health communication;
• Students will also complete a career portfolio.

As a cohort member, you build a platform of professional network support, benefitting you throughout your career. Intensive training begins immediately on the first day of the program and leadership skills are woven throughout the two-year program. The professional practice forum enables you to integrate your entire course learning. The MPS in Translation also familiarizes students with the basic research skills needed for admission to a research degree.

Languages

For fall 2013, the program will feature the language pair of English/Chinese and Chinese/English. In addition, for fall 2013, the program will also feature a multilingual track to accommodate all other languages. New language pairs will be added based on student interest with the intent of developing full language programs in Spanish, Arabic, French, German, Italian, Korean, Persian, Portuguese, and Russian and other language programs as demand allows. Contact the program director for information on class size and language combinations currently offered.

Program Director and Advisor

Interested students are encouraged to consult with Dr. David B. Sawyer, Director, Graduate Studies in Interpreting and Translation, e-mail: dbsawyer@umd.edu.