Translation King Khalid University

Overview

Over two years and four semesters, the program offers an in-depth exploration of both theoretical and practical aspects of translation, preparing graduates for success in various professional settings, including academia, international organizations, and the private sector.

First Semester

In the first semester, students begin their studies with a foundational course, Introduction to Translation & Interpreting Studies. This course provides an overview of the key concepts, history, and scope of translation and interpreting, setting the stage for the entire program. Alongside this, students engage with Translation & Interpreting Technologies, which introduces them to the modern tools and software essential for efficient and high-quality translation work. 

The semester concludes with Specialized Translation 1, where students start to develop their skills in translating specialized texts, focusing on specific domains such as legal, medical, or technical translation.

Second Semester

The second semester deepens students' theoretical understanding of translation while expanding their practical skills. In Translation Theories, students explore various theoretical frameworks that inform translation practices, engaging critically with different models and approaches. 

This is complemented by Audio-visual Translation, a course that covers the specific challenges and techniques involved in translating multimedia content, including subtitling and dubbing. Specialized Translation 2 continues the work begun in the first semester, allowing students to further refine their expertise in specialized translation fields.

Third Semester

The third semester emphasizes research skills and advanced practices in translation and interpreting. Research Methodologies in Translation & Interpreting Studies equips students with the tools needed to conduct scholarly research in the field, covering both qualitative and quantitative methods. Students also continue their specialized translation training with Specialized Translation 3, which challenges them to master the translation of complex texts in their chosen domain. 

This semester also introduces students to the principles of teaching translation through Translation Pedagogy, and to the intricacies of adapting content for different cultures in Localization. Practical experience in interpreting is further developed in Advanced Interpreting Practice, where students refine their skills in simultaneous and consecutive interpreting through hands-on exercises.

Fourth Semester

In the final semester, students apply their learning in real-world contexts. The Translation Project serves as a capstone experience, where students undertake a substantial translation project under the guidance of a faculty mentor, producing work that demonstrates their professional-level skills. 

This is complemented by Translation Fieldwork, which provides students with practical experience in a professional translation environment, such as a translation agency or international organization. This hands-on experience is invaluable for gaining insights into the industry and applying the skills developed throughout the program.