Graduate Certificate in Translation

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

Translation, the ability to decode cultures and bridge worlds, is one of the most sought-after skills today. You can become part of this dynamic field if you love languages, want to keep up with the latest developments in the field, and want to work with some of the best translators in the region. One of the goals of this program is the pursuit of excellence in translation activities and the cultivation of innovative talents.

The Graduate Certificate in Translation is open to anyone interested in the program, including graduate students enrolled at AUA who wish to prepare for a rewarding career as a translator or cross-cultural communications specialist.

The Certificate can complement a number of graduate degrees in the liberal arts. It is equally suited for new translators who need grounding in translation studies, as well as seasoned translators who seek to expand and improve upon their abilities.

The one-year program consists of two fifteen-week semesters. Upon successful completion of the coursework (4 courses at 3 credits each), students will receive a Graduate Certificate in Translation (English/Armenian).

The Certificate is offered by the Center for Research in Applied Linguistics in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. For information on how to apply, please visit the Admissions website.

COURSES

CTRA 380: English for Translators (3 credits)

The aim of this course is to introduce students to critical discussions in translation studies and to help them develop a language (vocabulary) and discourse (manner) for analyzing translations as well as contextualize and evaluate translations in a constructive manner. Students are encouraged to view translation as a process, involving planning, drafting, and revision for clarity and precision. They are required to complete short readings and weekly writing assignments, which may include but are not limited to response papers, vocabulary journals, and translations from a range of texts from across the disciplines.

CTRA 381: History and Theories of Translation (3 credits)

This course aims to investigate the history of translation and the theories that have accompanied the changing roles of translation in the societies where they have been put into practice. Translation is viewed here as a factor that has contributed to shifts in intellectual, literary and cultural trends. The course also examines the main theoretical concepts currently discussed in translation studies, and demonstrates how they influence translation in practice. By taking a comparative and cultural studies approach, rather than a purely linguistic approach, this course explores the impact of translation as a force for change and traces the ways in which texts are received by readers in different cultural contexts.

CTRA 382: Practicum in Translation (3 credits)

The practicum component aims to consolidate the theory and practice of translation covered in the previous courses. The course helps student translators develop and expand their own translating and editing techniques, and to facilitate the integration of their skills and knowledge through large-scale practice. It enables students to translate a wide variety of genres in professional areas (literary, medicine, law, business, etc.) so that they can make informed choices about their own professional future. Students are guided through their apprenticeship in stages—observation, controlled practice of translation techniques, and increasingly difficult and lengthy texts. Throughout the practicum, students receive constructive feedback and assistance and evaluate peer performance.

CTRA 383: Consecutive and Simultaneous Interpreting (3 credits)

Consecutive and Simultaneous Interpreting is a course grounded in theory and practice and specifically set up to train professional interpreters. The course offers students an opportunity to get acquainted with the theoretical and professional frameworks of consecutive and simultaneous interpreting. Students will learn to interpret in various professional areas such as literature, medicine, law, business, etc. Worksite learning is a key component of the course during which students will perform live interpreting tasks under supervision and shadow professional interpreters at work.