Interpreter : Entry requirements

This area of work is open to all graduates with a high level of language knowledge. For most, this will mean an undergraduate degree in one of the following subjects:

• modern languages;
• deaf studies;
• translation and interpreting;
• modern languages or British Sign Language (BSL) and interpreting.

Entry is also possible, however, for graduates who have an unrelated degree but possess the required language skills. Specialist knowledge in science, engineering, the environment, business, economics, law or politics can be helpful, as interpreters work for a wide range of clients and understanding specialist vocabulary and concepts to a high level is essential.

This area of work is open to those with an HND/foundation degree in one of the above subjects, although you will need to progress to degree-level study and/or a diploma in interpreting in order to enter the profession. Entry without a degree or HND/foundation degree is unlikely except where practitioners have come to interpreting through life experience, for example, a bilingual upbringing, residence abroad or regular work with speakers of a second language. BSL interpreters may develop their language proficiency through vocational qualifications such as NVQs.

A postgraduate diploma or Masters in interpreting techniques is usually expected. Some courses focus on particular aspects of interpreting, but there are options which also develop complementary skills, such as translation. Several institutions run both part and full-time courses.

Pre-entry experience is not essential but, if you want to work as a professional interpreter, you will need to show evidence of the following:

• an excellent command of English and the other language(s) into which you may interpret;
• fluency in at least one additional language for freelance interpreting and two or ideally more for a staff position in conference interpreting;
• a good memory and the ability to learn fast;
• the skills to interact well with people and work as part of a team;
• the ability to use discretion and maintain confidentiality;
• flexibility to deal calmly with the unexpected and difficult situations;
• reliability, dedication and commitment;
• knowledge of current affairs, politics and different cultures and customs.

In addition, conference and court interpreters must be confident about speaking in public and have a clear and pleasant speaking voice.

While building a network of contacts and developing experience, some interpreters offer their services voluntarily. They may also do this in the later stages of their career, if it is financially viable to do so. Interpreters will often use speculative applications in order to approach agencies when seeking work. Many professional interpreting associations offer membership at a reduced cost to students, which can assist you in developing contacts and knowledge of the industry.

Competition is fierce, particularly amongst the major European languages. If you do not have professional interpreting qualifications, you may still find informal work as an interpreter if you are fluent, or almost fluent, in more than one language, but rates of pay will be lower than those for professionally qualified interpreters. Some local authorities, colleges and universities offer short courses in community interpreting for those without such qualifications.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.