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Languages and Communication Studies at UEA
Find out more about studying Languages and Communication Studies at UEA, and browse our other courses.
Find out moreBA (Hons) Translation and Interpreting with Modern Languages
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Arts
- UCAS Course Code
- Q9R8
- Typical Offer
- ABB including French, Spanish or Japanese
- Contextual Offer
- BBC including French, Spanish or Japanese
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2027
Other Start Dates
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5th
UEA is ranked 5th overall for research quality in Area Studies
Times Higher Education REF 2021 Analysis95%
Of graduates go on to work and/or study within 15 months after the course
Graduate Outcome Survey 202096%
Of final year Languages students at UEA were satisfied with the course
National Student Survey 2022Course Overview
Why BA Translation and Interpreting with Modern Languages at UEA?
Master two languages to degree level, gain professional training in translation, interpret and cutting-edge audiovisual technologies. You’ll spend a transformative year abroad and build independence, intercultural confidence and strong employability across international sectors.
Why choose UEA?
- Translation technology skills: Develop advanced skills in two languages while training with industry‑standard translation and interpreting technologies
- Global communication careers: Graduate with high‑level linguistic, intercultural and professional translation/interpreting skills valued across media, business and education
- Immersive language experience: Combine advanced language study with hands‑on cultural experiences, specialist modules and an immersive year abroad
What is BA Translation and Interpreting with Modern Languages?
The BA Translation and Interpreting with Modern Languages at UEA is a four‑year degree that develops high‑level proficiency in two languages. You can choose from French, Spanish and Japanese and benefit from professional training in translation, interpreting and applied language studies.
You’ll explore a wide range of specialist modules, including subtitling, dubbing, culture, communication and advanced translation techniques. You’ll also gain hands‑on experience in both public‑service and conference interpreting using UEA’s state-of-the-art language lab, which features cutting‑edge audiovisual translation tools and industry‑standard interpreting booths.
The course builds critical thinking and cultural literacy through engagement with diverse cultural events, activities and specialist modules.
A compulsory year abroad develops independence, adaptability, and professional confidence as students study, work, or teach in countries where their languages are spoken.
Graduates leave well‑equipped for careers in the language services sector, media, teaching, business, marketing and other globally oriented fields.
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Year Abroad
The year abroad is a compulsory element of this four-year language degree.
In your third year, you'll enhance your studies by living in one or more countries where your degree languages are spoken. During this year, you’ll deepen your experience of the languages and cultures by either studying at a local university (all languages), or taking up a teaching assistantship or suitable work placement (French and Spanish only). Through this opportunity you'll enhance your language skills, while also developing your intercultural awareness, resourcefulness and flexibility. It’s also a great way to demonstrate your resilience, confidence, and ability to thrive in an international setting to future employers.
We’ve exciting exchange links with many universities in France and Spain, as well as links with universities in Japan, Canada and Latin America. If you’re studying Japanese, you'll attend one of our partner universities in Japan.
If you’re studying two languages from A-Level (or equivalent), you'll normally split your year abroad equally between two countries where your two languages are spoken. If you’re taking one of your languages from below A-Level (or equivalent), you'll normally spend your entire year abroad in a country where your weaker language is spoken, although you’re strongly recommended to follow some modules in your university placement in the stronger language and/or spend the summer working or studying in the country of your stronger language. We can provide support and advice on this.
For further details, visit the Study Abroad(opens in a new window) pages.
Careers
Career Pathways
With a BA in Translation and Interpreting with Modern Languages, you could launch the following careers:
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Translator (various specialisms): The course provides specialist training in translation techniques, subtitling, dubbing and audiovisual translation
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Interpreter (public service or conference): You gain practical experience in both modes using industry‑standard interpreting booths
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Language services professional: including localisation, subtitling, multilingual content creation and cultural consultancy
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Media and communications roles, such as editorial assistant, content writer, or communications officer: Supported by strong language and intercultural communication skills
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Language teacher or teaching assistant: Especially after experience gained during the year abroad (e.g., assistantships in French‑ and Spanish‑speaking countries)
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Business, international relations, or global operations roles: Using your intercultural expertise and advanced language proficiency
Career Support
Throughout your degree you'll be supported by UEA’s Careers Central(opens in a new window), with a wide range of resources to help you to shape your profile for success after university. Within the School of Media, Language and Communication Studies, we’ll also look to support your career development with an extensive programme of industry speakers, Alumni panels, mentoring, short courses on AI literacy and career confidence, and assessments designed to help you reflect on your own skills development. Our annual Industry Week in spring brings together the opportunity to immerse yourself in a range of events, working with leaders in industry, specialists in career guidance, and the opportunity to learn new skills to help you succeed in your journey after your degree.
After the Course
You’ll graduate prepared for a whole host of career sectors, both in the UK and abroad. These include tourism, hospitality and leisure, human resources, marketing, sales, business, international banking, media, the civil service, local government and administration, teaching and education, translation and interpretation, international trade and business, journalism, arts administration and customer services.
Alternatively, you could continue your studies with a master's degree such as our MA in Applied Translation Studies(opens in a new window) or perhaps our MA in Digital Media and Global Communication(opens in a new window). Our Careers Service runs an annual Arts and Humanities careers events programme(opens in a new window). This includes alumni-led presentations and workshops across a range of sectors, including charities, politics and government, writing and communications, and museums and heritage. You’ll also benefit from our annual Careers Fair, where we showcase the range of opportunities available to you. This is a great chance to meet employers and to hear alumni speak about their career paths since graduating.
Study and Modules
Structure
In your first year, you'll focus on developing core skills in your two languages, as well as getting a solid foundation in translation theory and practice. You'll also be introduced to key themes in the study of language, culture, and intercultural communication.
Compulsory Modules
Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Structure
At this stage of your degree, you’ll continue to hone your language skills in your two languages, while developing your understanding of translation issues across media in a globalised world. You’ll also be able to choose from topics related to language and culture, subtitling and dubbing, and global communication.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 20)Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Structure
You’ll spend your third year abroad on study or work placements in countries where your chosen languages are spoken. Your linguistic and cultural confidence will increase hugely, allowing you to think more as a native speaker.
So how does this work?
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You’ll spend your third year abroad and return for the final year.
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If you’re taking French, you can study in one of our partner universities in France, Canada, Switzerland or Reunion Island (subject to availability).
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If you’re taking Spanish, you can study in one of our partner universities in Spain, Mexico, Uruguay, or Chile (subject to availability).
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If you’re studying French and/or Spanish, you’ve the option to spend your year working abroad instead of studying at a university.
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If you choose to work abroad, you’re responsible for organising and securing your own work placement(s), which need academic approval. We can provide advice on employment opportunities based on the experiences of previous students and our close relationships with organisations in France, Spain, Argentina, Mexico, and Peru.
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Japanese language students normally study in one of our partner universities in Japan.
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If you’re taking two of French, Spanish, or Japanese from A Level, you'll normally split the year between two countries where those languages are spoken.
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If you’re taking one of your degree languages from below A Level, you'll normally spend your entire year abroad in the country of the weaker language. It’s strongly recommended that you follow at least some modules in the stronger language in your university placement and/or spend the summer working or studying in the country of the other language. We can provide support and advice on this.
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You must remain abroad in approved activities for at least seven months in total. The approved period of residence abroad will normally coincide with UEA’s academic year and must begin no later than October.
Compulsory Modules
Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Structure
You’ll build your expertise with specialised translation modules in your two languages, as well as gain practical experience and confidence in public service and conference interpreting. While honing these skills, you’ll have the choice to take advanced language study topics, engage in translation work experience, or develop theoretical and technical knowledge for subtitling and dubbing or media accessibility.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 40)Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning, and Assessment
Teaching and Learning
Across the four years of the degree, you’ll progress from building core academic and language foundations through interactive seminars, oral classes, workshops, independent study and groupwork in year one, to more specialised learning in smaller classes in year two, where optional modules help you balance theoretical and practical skills as you further develop research, writing, teamwork and presentation abilities. In year three, you’ll spend a transformative year abroad, strengthening your language skills in real‑world contexts while learning to live, study or work independently and adapt confidently to new cultural environments. Finally, in year four, you’ll engage in advanced learning through case studies, practical projects and extended academic writing, with opportunities to collaborate with external organisations and, if you choose, produce an independent dissertation on a topic that inspires you.
Assessment
In your first year, you’ll be assessed through a mix of language tests, a translation essay and written and spoken coursework designed to ensure you’ve developed the core skills needed in language, translation and intercultural communication to progress confidently.
In year two, you’ll encounter a wider range of assessments, including written and oral language tasks, a translation project essay, reports, presentations, group projects and even subtitling a video clip to professional standards.
During your year abroad, you’ll complete a compulsory module that supports your academic and personal development while living and learning in another country. You must pass this module and can be reassessed at UEA if you fail.
In your final year, you’ll undertake advanced, professionally oriented assessments such as specialised translations, interpreting roleplays and speeches in state‑of‑the‑art interpreting booths, alongside authentic translation briefs, written and oral exams, essays, presentations and the option to complete a dissertation under expert supervision.
Entry Requirements
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- Language Entry Levels
You can start this course from beginner's level, from post-GCSE level or equivalent, as well as from A-Level or equivalent - the course is tailored to meet your level.
- Native and Near-native Speakers
Native or near-native speakers can also apply for the French and/or Spanish degree programmes, but please note that the programme followed will be different from the one advertised. It is not possible to undertake a Japanese degree if you are a native or near-native speaker of Japanese.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade C or grade 4.
In place of Mathematics GCSE we can also consider Functional Skills Level 2 Mathematics.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies(opens in a new window) page.
- Contextual Offers
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes(opens in a new window).
- Typical UK Entry Requirements
A levels
ABB including French, Spanish or Japanese
Contextual offer: BBC including French, Spanish or Japanese
BTEC
Level 3 Extended Diploma: DDM plus grade B in A-Level French, Spanish or Japanese.
Contextual offer: DMM plus grade B in A-Level French, Spanish or Japanese.
BTEC in Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration are all excluded from our BTEC offers.
Access to HE Diploma
Access to Humanities and Social Sciences Pathway. Pass Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 30 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 15 credits at Level 3. Grade B in French, Spanish or Japanese A-level, or equivalent qualification is also required.
Contextual: Access to Humanities and Social Sciences Pathway. Pass Access to HE Diploma with Merit in 30 credits at Level 3 and pass in 15 credits at Level 3. Grade B in French, Spanish or Japanese A-level, or equivalent qualification is also required.
T levels
Not accepted
Foundation Year options:
If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes such as - BA Modern Language with a Foundation Year(opens in a new window)
- Further Examples of Typical Entry Requirements
International Baccalaureate
32 points overall including HL 5 in French, Spanish or Japanese
Irish Leaving Certificate
3 subjects at H2, 3 subjects at H3 including French, Spanish or Japanese
Scottish Highers
AAABB or above including grade A in French, Spanish or Japanese.
A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable.
Scottish Advanced Highers
BCC or above including French, Spanish or Japanese.
A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable.
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy(opens in a new window) applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Progression
Once enrolled onto a course at UEA, your progression and continuation (which may include eligibility for study abroad, overseas experience, placement, or year in industry opportunities) is contingent on meeting the assessment requirements which are relevant to the course on which you are enrolled.
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- Language Entry Levels
You can start this course from beginner's level, from post-GCSE level or equivalent, as well as from A-Level or equivalent - the course is tailored to meet your level.
- Native and Near-native Speakers
Native or near-native speakers can also apply for the French and/or Spanish degree programmes, but please note that the programme followed will be different from the one advertised. It is not possible to undertake a Japanese degree if you are a native or near-native speaker of Japanese.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade C or grade 4.
In place of Mathematics GCSE we can also consider Functional Skills Level 2 Mathematics.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies(opens in a new window) page.
- Typical International Entry Requirements
A levels
ABB including French, Spanish or Japanese.
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. For specific details about your country, view our information for International Students(opens in a new window).
- UEA International Study Centre
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, UEA International Study Centre(opens in a new window) offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree.
- English Foreign Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components)
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies(opens in a new window) for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, UEA International Study Centre offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study:
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy(opens in a new window) applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Progression
Once enrolled onto a course at UEA, your progression and continuation (which may include eligibility for study abroad, overseas experience, placement, or year in industry opportunities) is contingent on meeting the assessment requirements which are relevant to the course on which you are enrolled.
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Fees and Funding
Tuition fees for the Academic Year 2027/28 are:
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UK Students: £10,050
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International Students: £24,250
We estimate living expenses at £1,171 per month.
Further Information on tuition fees can be found here(opens in a new window).
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships(opens in a new window) for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
Please see Additional Course Fees(opens in a new window) for details of course-related costs.
How to Apply
Apply for this course through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS), using UCAS Hub.
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started. (opens in a new window)
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information: