Key information
Our MA (Hons) Modern Languages (Interpreting and Translating) programme allows you to study French and Spanish to degree level, with a focus on applied modern languages for professional use. Ranked 2nd in Scotland for Languages (National Student Survey 2025), you’ll develop advanced interpreting skills and spend a year abroad on placements with two of our partner universities, immersing yourself in your languages and their cultures.
Find out more about our 3 year honours degree option.
- UCAS code
- RR12/RR14/RR24/RLCF/RLCG/RLCS
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Delivery type
- Full Time
- Degree qualification
- MA
- Mode of delivery
- On-Campus
- Duration
- 3-4 years
- Location
- Edinburgh
- Start date
- September
The MA (Hons) Modern Languages (Interpreting and Translating) prepares you for careers that require professional language, communication and intercultural skills.
You’ll develop proficiency in French and Spanish alongside specialist training in interpreting and translation, with a strong focus on real‑world application. You’ll explore how interpreting approaches vary across professional contexts, including healthcare, business, legal settings and conferences.
Intensive language support is available in year one where needed, helping ensure you can progress confidently in French and Spanish to your second year. In later years, you’ll progress to simultaneous interpreting and advanced translation practice and develop a dissertation project on a topic related to languages, interpreting and translation, allowing you to gain expertise in an area of your interest.
Your third year is spent studying abroad, deepening your linguistic and cultural understanding and with the opportunity to choose from institutions with strong interpreting and translation programmes. By the end of the programme, you’ll graduate with proficiency in French and Spanish, a strong understanding of the global cultural contexts in which they are used, and professional skills in interpreting and translation, alongside transferable skills in advanced digital literacy, communication and research.
All of this means that as a graduate you will be highly sought-after for language-based careers and roles within international environments.
Your student experience
You’ll be taught by experienced academics and practising language professionals with expertise in French and Spanish, interpreting, translation and applied language studies.
Teaching on the programme is informed by staff who have worked in professional interpreting and translation contexts, bringing practical insight into how language skills are used in real-world settings. This ensures your learning is at the cutting edge of professional practice, as well as informed by current academic research.
The programme draws on Heriot-Watt’s international reputation in applied languages, with a focus on communication, intercultural competence and professional language use. Technical aspects of interpreting and translation are embedded throughout your studies, 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
Student testimonials
Studying in LINCS has been a fantastic experience. The programme offers relevant and engaging classes on current global issues, supportive and knowledgeable staff, and a welcoming department with regular events. My time studying abroad in France and Spain was especially valuable, helping me develop real confidence using my languages. I would highly recommend it!
Teaching staff
James Kelly
Assistant Professor
Fanny Chouc
Assistant Professor
Owen Harrington Fernández
Assistant Professor
Academic testimonial
Our MA (Hons) Modern Languages (Interpreting and Translating) is widely recognised for the quality of the linguists it develops: our graduates have strong liaison, consecutive and simultaneous interpreting skills, all backed by the in-depth intercultural knowledge and experience that allow them to use their languages across a broad range of international and professional contexts.
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).
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
- Artistic, literary and media occupations
- Business and public service associate professionals
- Teaching Professionals
Student life
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