Modern Languages, Translation and Interpreting with a Year in Industry

The demand for translators and interpreters is growing rapidly as more companies, institutions and people do business globally but expect to use services in their own language.

Our specialist Modern Languages, Translation and Interpreting degree with a Year in Industry will provide you with excellent language skills in either one or two languages (French, German and Spanish), as well as theoretical, vocational and practical translation and interpreting skills.

French, German and Spanish can be studied at the following levels and in the following combinations:

• Two advanced languages: suitable for you if you have an A-level or equivalent qualification/experience in both languages.
• One advanced language and one beginner’s language: suitable for you if you have an A-level in a single language, and wish to continue with that language, while adding a second language to your skillset.
• One advanced language: suitable for you if you have an A-level or equivalent qualification/experience and wish to focus exclusively on one language.
On completion of this programme, you will have a critical understanding of translation and interpreting in different specialist areas and contexts, as well as a high level of proficiency in your selected languages.

Modern Languages at Swansea is ranked:

• 1st in the UK for Teaching Satisfaction (Guardian University Guide 2025)
• 1st for Learning Opportunities (NSS 2024)*
• 2nd for Teaching (NSS 2024)*
• 2nd for Student Voice (NSS 2024)**
• 5th in the UK Overall (Guardian University Guide 2025)

A. Based on the average positivity score across questions 5 to 9 in the NSS 2024, when ranked against universities featured in the Times Good University Guide.
B. Based on the average positivity score across questions 1 to 4 in the NSS 2024, when ranked against universities featured in the Times Good University Guide.
C. Based on the average positivity score across questions 22 to 25 in the NSS 2024, when ranked against universities featured in the Times Good University Guide.

This programme also includes a dedicated Year in Industry, in the UK or further afield (expected proficiency B2-C1).

The Year in Industry can be spent in the UK or overseas (overseas locations are dependent on VISA restrictions per country), giving valuable experience. The University advocates for paid placements, with an average salary of £20,000+. Unpaid placements are considered on a case-by-case basis. Although securing a placement is the responsibility of the student, we work with several organisations that provide a range of opportunities. Students are supported throughout the application journey with advice, guidance and resources. If you are unable to secure a placement by the end of the second year of study, you will transfer onto the equivalent degree programme.

This programme is open to native speakers of the languages on offer, who may choose to learn a second or third language as per the combinations listed above. Students may also wish to study their first language, with a view to becoming a professional interpreter or translator in their country of origin.

Your first year will include a mixture of compulsory and optional modules, with examples of compulsory modules from recent years including:

• Grammar and Meaning in Translation and Interpreting

In your second and fourth year you will study a mixture of compulsory and optional modules, from a large range of subject areas. Examples of optional modules in recent years have included:

• World Englishes
• French Language
• German Language
• Spanish Language
• Hispanic Identities.

This programme also includes a dedicated Year in Industry, in the UK or further afield.

The Year in Industry can be spent in the UK or overseas (overseas locations are dependent on VISA restrictions per country), giving valuable experience.

Your final year will include an optional independent dissertation project.

We offer a variety of assessment methods within our programmes. In addition to traditional examinations and essays, examples of alternative assessment include:

• Presentations
• Group Work
• Oral Examinations

Throughout your undergraduate Modern Languages, Translation and Interpreting degree, you will develop excellent research and analytical skills and learn to present your ideas effectively both verbally and in writing.