MA in Arabic-English Translation and Interpreting

Durham University

Durham University stands in a lovely city on a magnificent site, crowned by the cathedral, the finest example of Romanesque architecture in Britain, and the somewhat older castle, which is, itself, part of the University. Founded in 1832, the University has deep roots, but has adapted to the changing pattern of British Universities. Its excellence in teaching and research are well established and in 2005, Durham was elected University of the Year by the Sunday Times.

The Department of Arabic 

Arabic language, literature and related subjects have been taught at Durham University for more than forty years, and the Department of Arabic has an international reputation in these areas. Areas of research and teaching covered by the Department of Arabic include Arabic language, linguistics and literature, as well as Arabic/English Translation. The department has been active in Arabic/English translation studies for a number of years. The department has a number of PhD students in Arabic/English Translation and other areas of linguistics.

The MA in Arabic/English Translation

The MA in Arabic/English Translation lasts for twelve months and is designed for native speakers of Arabic, and speakers of English who have near-native competence in Arabic. The course combines training in English>Arabic and Arabic>English translation with a consideration of the theoretical issues involved in translation. It is therefore suitable both for prospective professional translators and for those wishing to go on to further academic study.

The MA modules are mainly taught in the Department of Arabic. Translation Theory and Research Methods and Resources (RMR) are offered by the School of Modern Languages and Cultures (MLAC).

Course structure

The MA involves a combination of core modules, which are taken by all students, plus a number of optional modules, where students have a choice. The course structure of the MA is as follows:

Core Courses: obligatory for all students

1. Research Methods and Resources (30 UCUs)
2. Translation Theory (30 UCUs)
3. Translation practica Arabic>English, English>Arabic (30 UCUs)
4. Dissertation (60 UCUs)

Optional Modules: students choose two courses from the following options:

1. Business and Technical Translation, Arabic>English, English>Arabic (15 UCUs)
2. Legal Translation, Arabic>English, English>Arabic (15 UCUs)
3. Interpreting (15 UCUs)

Part-time study

It is possible to do the MA on a part-time basis by spreading the workload over two years instead of one. Please note, however, that this does not exempt you from day-time attendance as the MA cannot be taken through evening classes or by correspondence.