Industry links, professional bodies, societies and clubs

The Department of Languages and Intercultural Studies at Heriot-Watt University is one of the most established departments of its kind in the UK. Over 50 years, we have built strong links with industry bodies and other higher education institutions which share our vision of language learning for a professional purpose. 

Collaboration with SCIC

The department works closely with SCIC, the Directorate-General for Interpretation of the European Commission, through a cooperation agreement. This cooperation translates into virtual classes, pedagogical assistance missions and training for trainers delivered by SCIC trainers, as well as study visits to Brussels.

Professional Recognition and Accreditation

The Department of Languages and Intercultural Studies at Heriot-Watt University is one of only four UK university departments granted membership of CIUTI, an international body which brings together universities which specialise in translating and interpreter training.

The Department is a Higher Education Language Partner with the UK Chartered Institute of Linguists, which is the leading UK-based membership body for language professionals. 

Heriot-Watt is a member of the EMT network, the European Master’s in Translation network. European Master's in Translation is a quality label for MA university programmes in translation. The DG Translation awards it to higher education programmes that meet agreed professional standards and market demands.