University of Western Australia

What you'll study

The programme combines theoretical foundations in translation and interpreting studies with intensive practical training in professional translation environments. Core topics typically include translation theory and history, comparative grammar and contrastive analysis, advanced translation practice for a range of text types (literary, technical, legal, medical), and the ethics and professionalism of translation.

Students also study computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools and localisation workflows, terminology management, corpus linguistics for translators, and research methods. The degree normally offers a choice between a coursework stream with a professional capstone or an independent research thesis, allowing you to focus on applied projects, internship-based experience or a substantial research investigation.

• Translation theory and practice
• Specialised translation (e.g. legal, medical, technical, audiovisual)
• Interpreting fundamentals and spoken language transfer (where available)
• Computer-assisted translation, localisation and project management
• Terminology and corpus methods for translators
• Research methods and a capstone project or thesis

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised bachelor's degree or equivalent. Successful applicants commonly have a background in languages, linguistics, translation studies, or another relevant discipline, though applicants with substantial professional experience in bilingual environments may also be considered.

Evidence of proficiency in both the source and target languages is required, and international applicants must demonstrate satisfactory English language ability (for example, by providing recognised test scores or equivalent proof). Where appropriate, applicants may be asked to submit samples of translation work or undertake a brief assessment interview.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of language-related careers. Typical roles include:

• Professional translator (freelance or in-house) and specialised translator for legal, medical, technical or literary texts
• Localisation specialist and project manager for software, games and digital content
• Interpreter for community, healthcare, legal and conference settings (where interpreting training is taken)
• Terminologist, quality assurance specialist and language resource developer
• Language consultant, policy adviser or analyst in government, international organisations and NGOs
• Editorial and publishing roles involving translation commissioning and bilingual publications

Graduates also pursue further research degrees or academic careers in translation and applied linguistics.

Why study at University of Western Australia

UWA offers this programme within a research-active environment that brings together strengths in languages, linguistics and area studies. Studying at UWA gives you access to experienced academic staff, applied training opportunities and language resources that reflect Perth's strong connections across the Indo‑Pacific region. The campus provides facilities for language learning and digital tools for contemporary translation practice, and the University’s industry links help students connect with placement and employment opportunities in government, business and the community sector.