Key information
Study French and Spanish, develop professional translation skills using industry-standard technology, and gain international experience with a year abroad at two partner universities. Ranked 2nd in Scotland for Languages (National Student Survey 2025), MA (Hons) Applied Modern Languages and Translating at Heriot-Watt prepares you for real-world language careers through professional skills, industry insight and global awareness.
Find out more about our 3 year honours degree option.
- UCAS code
- RRC2/RRC4/RRF4/RACF/RACG/RACS
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Delivery type
- Full Time
- Degree qualification
- MA
- Mode of delivery
- On-Campus
- Duration
- 3-4 years
- Location
- Edinburgh
- Start date
- September
MA (Hons) Applied Modern Languages and Translating at Heriot-Watt University allows you to develop French and Spanish to a professional level while gaining valuable international experience. You’ll spend a year abroad at two partner universities, immersing yourself in your chosen languages and cultures.
Professionally recognised by the Chartered Institute of Linguists (CIoL), this programme combines applied language learning with communication, cultural studies, linguistics, and translation. You'll develop advanced translation skills in our industry-standard language labs, working with professional tools including computer-assisted translation (CAT) software.
Alongside technical proficiency, you’ll develop critical AI literacy - learning not just how to use AI-powered tools, but how to evaluate their outputs, understand their limitations, and apply techniques such as prompt engineering to achieve the best results as a linguist in a fast-changing profession.
You’ll develop a strong understanding of key theories and concepts while building connections with potential employers, ensuring you graduate with both academic knowledge and career-ready experience. Your third year abroad strengthens your language skills in a real-world setting.
By the time you graduate, you’ll have professional language and translation expertise alongside transferable skills such as digital literacy, communication and research, giving you a competitive edge for a wide range of professional roles in international and language-based careers.
Your student experience
You’ll be taught by experienced academics and practising language professionals with expertise in French and Spanish, translation, technology for professional linguists and applied language studies.
Teaching is informed by staff who have worked in professional translation contexts, bringing practical insight into how these skills are applied in real-world settings. This ensures your learning reflects current industry practice as well as leading academic research.
The programme draws on Heriot-Watt’s recognised strengths in applied languages, with a focus on communication, intercultural competence and professional language use. Technical aspects of translation are embedded throughout, helping you develop the skills and understanding needed for modern, language-based careers.
Go Global
Go Global is our student mobility programme, allowing you to seamlessly transfer your studies to one of our global campuses, or to a partner university. Live and learn in a new country, experience different cultures and build a global perspective, while continuing your degree without interruption.
European Exchange
Worldwide Exchange
Course content
September Intake - Edinburgh
Disclaimer
The courses mentioned above may change between now and the time that you study. For more information, please view our Terms and Conditions.
Programme Video
Languages at Heriot-Watt University
Teaching staff
James Kelly
Assistant Professor
Chris Tinker
Professor
Ramon Inglada
Associate Professor
Academic testimonial
Students on the MA (Hons) Applied Modern Languages and Translating develop applied language skills as well as in-depth intercultural knowledge and experience, allowing them to use their languages across a broad range of international and professional contexts. They also gain hands-on experience of the technology and AI tools employed by professional linguists, all of which are highly sought after by industry.
Fees and funding
| Status | Fee |
|---|---|
| Scotland | Paid by SAAS |
| England / Wales / N Ireland / Rep of Ireland | £9,790 |
| International | £20,080 |
- Status: Your residency status is usually defined as the country where you have been ordinarily resident for the three years before the start of your course.
- International: 'International' includes applicants from European Union countries who do not hold Pre-Settled or Settled status in UK. (This does not include students from the Republic of Ireland - see above).
Scholarships and bursaries
Bursaries for students from England, Northern Ireland or Wales
In addition to government loans and grants towards the costs of fees and living costs, we are offering generous financial support to attract and support eligible undergraduate students from England, Northern Ireland or Wales:
- Heriot-Watt University Bursary (up to £3,100 per year)
Entry requirements
We have standard entry requirements for all of our courses that you will have to meet.
Why Heriot-Watt
We have been producing career-ready graduates since 1821. With our roots as the world’s first Mechanics Institute, Heriot-Watt is a pioneering university with a global reach.
At Heriot-Watt, learning goes beyond the lecture theatre. We tackle real world challenges through extraordinary research – from climate change to protecting our oceans, to advancing life-saving medical breakthroughs and shaping the next generation of AI. We are also committed to developing forward-thinking design and sustainable business practices that impact industries worldwide. On our campuses you’ll find some of the world’s most advanced facilities, while our strong industry links set you up for career success. This is why almost 90% of our graduates are in employment or further education (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2024).
Employability
Work and study
Salary
Potential career paths
- Teaching Professionals
- Artistic, literary and media occupations
Student life
Explore facilities, and chat to staff and students
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