Sign Language Interpreting (EUMASLI)

Overview

Our innovative international MSc Sign Language Interpreting (EUMASLI) programme is intended to contribute to the development of the professional field of interpreting between deaf and hearing people in Europe. This master’s degree will prepare you to participate in research, development and management functions in your respective country.

Our programme’s strength lies in its international outlook and its collaborative spirit. Organised and delivered by Magdeburg-Stendal University of Applied Sciences (Germany), Humak University of Applied Sciences (Finland) and Heriot-Watt University (Scotland), the programme brings together teachers and students from around the world in a joint effort to move the field of sign language interpreting forward. It affords scope for individual development and encourages cooperation across geographical, cultural and conceptual borders.

Over the study period of two and a half years, you’ll travel to participate in block seminars at all partner universities and engage in online activities and self-study.

Applications

The next intake of students will be in September 2027. The EUMASLI MSc programme runs in three year cycles. Each cohort of students completes their studies across the three universities before the next cohort begins.

Our expertise

Our MSc Sign Language Interpreting (EUMASLI) degree is taught by experienced, leading academics who, in many cases, have published the research which shapes their disciplines and written the books which will guide your learning. Many academics balance teaching time with continued professional practice as translators, interpreters, practitioner psychologists, tax and finance specialists and management consultants. They bring real-world experience to the classroom.

Your learning environment

Our MSc Sign Language Interpreting (EUMASLI) programme has excellent facilities and is taught in a hybrid mode. The degree combines regular online contact with pre-recorded videos, discussion boards and in-person teaching blocks in the UK, Germany and Finland using lectures, seminars, and practical translation and interpreting activities. This allows you to get to know and build relationships with your peers, the teaching staff and academics.

Additionally, you can join Heriot-Watt’s Languages Society, which holds regular social events in a welcoming environment. They encourage a safe, culturally diverse community where you can explore language and linguistics.

Customise your learning

You’ll learn from nine courses on the syllabus and complete a dissertation.

Your dissertation will allow you to undertake an independent study related to the professional structure and/or the performance of sign language interpreting and translating. You’ll be expected to demonstrate an ability to develop and sustain a logical and consistent argument about the analysis of relevant issues.

This programme is only available part-time. This flexibility allows you to fit your postgraduate studies around your lifestyle.

You may have the opportunity to Go Global on our Inter-Campus Transfer. Opportunities for postgraduate study abroad are assessed on a case-by-case basis and if you are interested in studying at our Dubai campus or Malaysia campus for a semester or longer, you should contact the Go Global Team.

Accreditation

We have accreditation through the Qualifications Framework for German Higher Education Degrees.