Postgraduate Diploma in Translation and Interpreting
PGDipT&I
Overview
UC's Postgraduate Diploma in Translation and Interpreting (PGDipT&I) will develop your language expertise into a career as either a translator or interpreter.
Gain broad skills in computer and literary translation tools or interpreting for different scenarios, and learn the historical, cultural, and political influences around engaging diversity in language.
With successful completion of this degree, you will meet the requirements to apply for certification with the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI).
- Advance your knowledge of Chinese, French, German, Japanese, Russian, Spanish, or Te Reo Māori language — or other languages with approved supervision at UC.
- Courses in either translation or interpreting, with opportunities for practical placements, projects, and research.
- Meet the requirements to apply for certification with the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI).
You will need one of the following to apply to the PGDipT&I:
- A bachelor's degree with at least 60 points in 300-level language courses at a B+ grade average, or equivalent level, from either Chinese, French, German, Japanese, Russian, Spanish, or Te Reo Māori
- Any bachelor's degree with relevant professional or other work experience in one of the approved languages above, or another language which may be available on application
- A Postgraduate Certificate in Translation and Interpreting with a B grade average or better
- Extensive practical, professional, or academic experience that demonstrates your ability to complete postgraduate studies, and demonstrated equivalent competence in an appropriate language.
If English is your additional language, you are also required to provide evidence of your English language ability with the equivalent of IELTS (Academic) overall of 7, with no section less than 6.5.
For the full entry requirements, see the Regulations for the Postgraduate Diploma in Translation and Interpreting or use the admission requirements checker.
How to apply
You can apply online at myUC. Find out more about how to apply for graduate and postgraduate qualifications.
The PGDipT&I is made up of 120 points, including two compulsory courses and 60 points of elective courses.
The Diploma can be studied on campus within 1 year full-time, or part-time for up to 2 years.
You will be able to specialise in either Chinese, French, German, Japanese, Russian, Spanish, or te reo Māori languages in your degree, or another approved language.
Compulsory courses
And one of either:
- LANC403 Translating in the Digital Era: Tools and Practices
- LANC404 Translating and Interpreting for the Community
Plus 60 points chosen from:
- LANC405 Translation Portfolio
- LANC406 Translation Research Project
- LANC407 Advanced Language Acquisition and Specialised Translation/Interpreting Study Abroad
- Chinese courses
- French courses
- German courses
- Japanese courses
- Russian courses
- Spanish courses
- Te Reo Māori courses
- LING400 English Structures
- LING615 World Englishes
- PACE495 Professional and Community Engagement Internship
- WRIT402 Professional Writing
You may choose to transfer your completed courses at a B grade average from the Diploma to the Master of Applied Translation and Interpreting, with approval.
UC also offers Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) studies in your chosen language, or in related subjects, such as Linguistics.
- Recognised preparation for certification with the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI) as either a professional translator or interpreter.
- Graduates will find work in media and creative industries, diplomacy, international partnerships, tourism and marketing, language software development, and more.
Useful information:
- Read what other UC postgraduate students have gone on to achieve in their studies and careers in our student and graduate profiles.
- Te Rōpū Rapuara | UC Careers can help you to achieve the career you want, connect with employers, or find a job.
- For research into career destinations by qualification, visit Te Pōkai Tara | Universities New Zealand website.
- Find out more about what you can do with a degree from UC.
- Come along to an upcoming information event for prospective postgraduate students.
See Tuition Fee Structure for more information
Contact us
For full requirements, see the Regulations for the Postgraduate Diploma in Translation and Interpreting.
For study planning help, contact the Department of Global, Cultural and Language Studies.
Te Kaupeka Toi Tangata | Faculty of Arts
Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury
Private Bag 4800
Christchurch 8140
New Zealand
Phone +64 3 369 3377
Email translation-interpreting@canterbury.ac.nz