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Accessibility & LanguageConference Interpreting (MA)
MA (Conference Interpreting)
Acadamh na hOllscolaíochta Gaeilge- Title of Award
- Master of Arts
- Course Code
- MEA-ATC (MA); TIAR-ATC (PDip)
- Average Intake
- 12
- Delivery
- On Campus
- NFQ
- Level 9
- Next Intake
- September 2026
- Duration
- 1 year, full-time
- ECTS Weighting
- 90
Why Choose This Course?
Course Information
The MA in Conference Interpreting is designed for individuals from diverse academic and professional backgrounds who are eager to explore the dynamic profession of conference interpreting. Whether you are a recent graduate of modern languages aiming to build specialist knowledge or a professional looking to obtain a highly regarded qualification to advance your career, or someone with underutilised language skills considering a new direction in the interpreting sector, this programme offers the skills and expertise to help you succeed.
While an in-depth knowledge of your working languages and their cultures is essential for any interpreter, being a successful conference interpreter requires more than just language skills. This course welcomes applicants with strong analytical skills and a diverse educational background. If you love languages and believe in multilingual communication, becoming a conference interpreter is an exciting career choice. Curiosity is key to professional success as well as a passion for communication and expression in one’s mothertongue.
Applicants should have one of the following language profiles and one of their languages must be either English or Irish.
- AA or AB
- ABC
- ACC or ACCC
A Language(s) is “The interpreter's native language (or another language strictly equivalent to a native language), into which the interpreter works from all her or his other languages, and as a general rule, in both modes of interpretation, simultaneous and consecutive.”
B Language(s) is “A language other than the interpreter's native language, of which she or he has a perfect command and into which she or he works from one or more of her or his other languages. Some interpreters work into a 'B' language in only one of the two modes of interpretation.”
C Language(s) is a language of which the interpreter has a complete understanding and from which she or he works.”
Admittance to the programme is via online interview and assessment which may include:
- A short interview to assess motivation and interest in the profession;
- Translation of a short article from an entrant's working languages, without the use of translation tools or dictionaries
- A concentration exercise in your proposed language combination. Applicants will listen to a short 2-3 minute speech in each C or B language and reformulate it in their A language/mother tongue and, where appropriate, A into B.
The oral reproduction of these short, simple and structured speeches is to test applicants’ ability to listen to, understand, process and reproduce a short speech on a general topic. Applicants must demonstrate that they have understood the message and have strong communication skills in their mother tongue.
What will I study?
The full-time programme comprises two teaching semesters (September to December and January to April).
The summer period will be used to complete a 20,000 word research dissertation.
| Module |
Semester |
ECTS |
| AT121 Consecutive Interpreting I |
1 & 2 |
10 |
| AT 122 Simultaneous Interpreting I |
1 & 2 |
15 |
| AT 123/7 Consecutive Interpreting II/III |
1 & 2 |
10 |
| AT 124/8 Simultaneous Interpreting II/III |
1 & 2 |
15 |
| AT130 Research Methodologies |
1 |
5 |
| AT129 Theory and Practice of Interpreting * |
1 & 2 |
5 |
| AT126 Research Project / Thesis |
1 & 2 |
30 |
The course is full-time. 80% of your classes are devoted to practical interpreting practice and students are expected to complement this by devoting time to group practice of simultaneous and consecutive interpreting and other self-directed learning (i.e. background reading; use of information sources, e.g. radio, TV, Internet; preparation of glossaries). For every hour of class time, a student can expect to complete 6 hours independent study.
Enrolment on a full-time programme means a commitment to 40-50 hours of total student effort per week throughout all the weeks of each semester. Such levels of engagement and activity will make it more likely that students will acquire a high level of knowledge and understanding of their chosen subjects, feel confident in their abilities and experience less stress during assessments and be better prepared for subsequent years.
Curriculum Information
Curriculum information relates to the current academic year (in most cases).Course and module offerings and details may be subject to change.
Glossary of Terms
- Credits
- You must earn a defined number of credits (aka ECTS) to complete each year of your course. You do this by taking all of its required modules as well as the correct number of optional modules to obtain that year's total number of credits.
- Module
- An examinable portion of a subject or course, for which you attend lectures and/or tutorials and carry out assignments. E.g. Algebra and Calculus could be modules within the subject Mathematics. Each module has a unique module code eg. MA140.
- Optional
- A module you may choose to study.
- Required
- A module that you must study if you choose this course (or subject).
- Semester
- Most courses have 2 semesters (aka terms) per year.
Year 1 (90 Credits)
RequiredAT126: Tráchtas / Thesis
AT126: Tráchtas / Thesis
15 months long | Credits: 30
Assessments
- Research (100%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
The above information outlines module AT126: "Tráchtas / Thesis" and is valid from 2018 onwards.Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
RequiredAT129: An tAontas Eorpach / The European Union
AT129: An tAontas Eorpach / The European Union
Semester 1 | Credits: 5
Examination of the institutions, procedures and functions of the European Union.
Léargas ar ar institiúidí, nósanna imeachta agus feidhmeanna an Aontais Eorpaigh.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- An understanding of the role, structure and functionality of the E.U. / Tuiscint ar ról, struchtúr agus feidhmiúlacht an A.E.
- An analysis of the Union’s role and that of the National Governments to fully understand their policies and common activities. / Anailís ar ról an Aontais agus ról na Rialtas Náisiúnta chun tuiscint a fháil ar a gcuid beartas agus comhghníomhaíochtaí.
- An understanding of European current affairs. / Tuiscint ar chúrsaí reatha na hEorpa.
- A study visit in collaboration with the European Union ~Institutions where the interpretation skills and knowledge of institutions and organisations acquired are used. / Cuairt staidéir i gcomhar leis an Aontas Eorpach ~ Institiúidí ina n-úsáidtear eolas ar na hinstitiúidí agus na heagraíochtaí don scil praiticiúil.
- Application of EU knowledge in order to present and/or interpret speeches of a technical nature on EU policy and procedure. / Eolas ar an AE a chur i bhfeidhm d’fhonn ateangaireacht/cur i láthair a dheánamh ar ábhar teicniúil bunaithe ar bheartas agus nósanna imeachta an AE.
Assessments
- Oral, Audio Visual or Practical Assessment (25%)
- Department-based Assessment (75%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
Reading List
- "How the European Union works : your guide to the EU institutions." by European Commission
ISBN: 978-92-79-255.
Publisher: Luxembourg : Publications Office
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
RequiredAT130: Modheolaíochtaí Taighde / Research Methodology
AT130: Modheolaíochtaí Taighde / Research Methodology
Semester 1 | Credits: 5
To provide a theoretical underpinning for the research process; to encourage a systematic approach to research; and to develop practical research skills. It aims to provide insight into the range of qualitative methodologies (ethnographical and case study research) available to the researcher and to develop participants’ practical research skills in the design, conduct and analysis of qualitative research. It also aims to provide an insight into quantitative methodologies, particularly in experimental and survey research. It explores the issues of research design, sampling, data collection and analysis involved in quantitative methodologies. It highlights important data validity and reliability issues, as well as several ethical issues that can arise.
Buntaca teoiriciúil a sholáthar don phróiseas taighde; cur chuige córasach i leith taighde a spreagadh; agus scileanna taighde praiticiúla a fhorbairt. Tá sé mar aidhm aige léargas a thabhairt ar an raon modheolaíochtaí cáilíochtúla (taighde eitneagrafaíochta agus cás-staidéir) atá ar fáil don taighdeoir agus scileanna taighde praiticiúla na rannpháirtithe a fhorbairt maidir le taighde cáilíochtúil a dhearadh, a stiúradh agus a anailísiú. Tá sé mar aidhm aige freisin léargas a thabhairt ar mhodheolaíochtaí cainníochtúla, go háirithe i dtaighde turgnamhach agus suirbhé. Scrúdaíonn sé na saincheisteanna a bhaineann le dearadh taighde, sampláil, bailiú sonraí agus anailís a bhaineann le modheolaíochtaí cainníochtúla. Leagann sé béim ar shaincheisteanna bailíochta agus iontaofachta sonraí, chomh maith le roinnt saincheisteanna eiticiúla a d'fhéadfadh teacht chun cinn.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Define their research question(s) / A gceist(eanna) taighde a shainiú.
- Select (and justify their choice of) an appropriate research methodology / Modheolaíocht taighde chuí a roghnú (agus a rogha a chosaint).
- Select (and justify their choice of) data collection methods / Modhanna bailithe sonraí a roghnú (agus a rogha a chosaint).
- Design qualitative and quantitative data collection instruments / Uirlisí bailithe sonraí cáilíochtúla agus cainníochtúla a dhearadh.
- Analyse qualitative and quantitative data using appropriate techniques / Anailís a dhéanamh ar shonraí cáilíochtúla agus cainníochtúla ag úsáid teicnící cuí.
- Identify and incorporate appropriate ethical procedures to the research process / Nósanna imeachta eiticiúla cuí a shainaithint agus a úsáid sa phróiseas taighde.
Assessments
- Continuous Assessment (100%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
Reading List
- "Doing your Research Project: a guide for first-time researchers in education, health and social science" by Bell, J
Publisher: Open University Press - "Social research methods" by Bryman, A.
Publisher: Oxford University Press - "Research design: Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods approaches" by Creswell, J.
Publisher: CA: Sage
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
RequiredAT121: Ateangaireacht Leantach I / Consecutive Interpreting I
AT121: Ateangaireacht Leantach I / Consecutive Interpreting I
Semester 1 and Semester 2 | Credits: 10
Students will be introduced to consecutive interpreting through specific listening exercises and will proceed from short consecutive speeches with and without note taking to technical speeches (>5 minutes). / Díreoidh an modúl seo ar bhunscileanna na hateangaireachta leantaí a fhorbairt. Díreofar ar cheachtanna éisteachta sainiúla agus óráidí bunúsacha ar dtús, gan nótaí. Le cabhair ó scileanna breactha nótaí tabharfar faoi óráidí teicniúla (>5 nóiméad).
Learning Outcomes
- Examine and develop the interpreter’s basic memory and analysis skills. / Scrúdófar agus forbrófar córchuimhne bhunúsach agus scileanna anailíse na hateangaire.
- Gain oversight of note taking techniques prescribed for successful consecutive interpreting. / Tabharfar léargas ginearálta ar scileanna breactha nótaí d’ateangaireacht leantach rathúil.
- Develop a personalised and reliable note taking system. / Forbrófar córas iontaofa ar leith um bhreacadh nótaí.
- Use note taking skills to interpret fluently and accurately on both general and technical subjects, seen and unseen for an audience. / Bainfear leas as na scileanna breactha nótaí ar leith chun ateangaireacht líofa, iontaofa, a dhéanamh ar ábhair ghinearálta agus theicniúla: ábhair ainmnithe agus nach bhfacthas cheana.
Assessments
- Oral, Audio Visual or Practical Assessment (100%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
Reading List
- "Consecutive Interpreting" by Andrew Gillies
ISBN: 9781138123236.
Publisher: Translation Practices Explained - "Conference interpreting explained" by Roderick Jones
ISBN: 1900650576.
Publisher: St Jerome Pub - "Interpretation" by James Nolan
ISBN: 1853597910.
Publisher: Multilingual Matters Ltd - "Técnicas de interpretación consecutiva : la toma de notas : manual para el estudiante" by Clara Bosch March
ISBN: 9788490450055. - "Conference interpreting : a student's practice book" by Andrew Gillies
ISBN: 9780415532341.
Publisher: Routledge - "Conference interpreting : a complete course" by Robin Setton author. Andrew Dawrant author.
ISBN: 9789027258618.
Publisher: John Benjamins Publishing Company
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
RequiredAT122: Ateangaireacht Chomhuaineach I / Simultaneous Interpreting I
AT122: Ateangaireacht Chomhuaineach I / Simultaneous Interpreting I
Semester 1 and Semester 2 | Credits: 15
This module aims to develop the skills that will enable students to listen to, understand, analyse a speech in a source language and simultaneously interpret this a speech fluently, conveying the speaker’s message in their target language. / Scileanna a fhorbairt chun éisteacht, tuiscint, anailís ar luas a dhéanamh ar óráid agus léiriú líofa iontaofa den bhrí a sholáthair sa sprioctheanga go comhuaineach.
Learning Outcomes
- Self-assess the strengths and weaknesses of an interpreting performance. / Féinmheasúnú a dhéanamh ar fheidhmiú na hateangaireachta. Láidreachtaí agus laigí san iarracht a aithint.
- Display an understanding of simultaneous interpreting techniques as well as professional etiquette, ethics, booth behaviour and team interaction. / Tuiscint ar theicnící na hateangaireachta comhuainigh a léiriú, chomh maith le béasaí oibre, nósanna na gairme, cúrsaí eitice agus comhar foirne.
- Actively listen to, understand, analyse a non technical speech in a source language and simultaneously interpret this speech fluently, conveying the speaker’s message in a target language. / Scileanna a fhorbairt chun éisteacht, tuiscint, anailís ar luas a dhéanamh ar ghnáth óráid agus ateangaireacht chomhuaineach, líofa, iontaofa a sholáthair ar bhrí an chainteora sa sprioctheanga.
- Actively listen to, understand, analyse a technical speech in a source language and simultaneously interpret this speech fluently, conveying the speaker’s message in a target language. Perform a fluent and accurate simultaneous interpretation of this technical speech. / Scileanna a fhorbairt chun éisteacht, tuiscint, anailís ar luas a dhéanamh ar óráid theicniúil agus sainiúil chun ateangaireacht chomhuaineach, líofa, iontaofa a sholáthair ar bhrí an chainteora sa sprioctheanga.
Assessments
- Oral, Audio Visual or Practical Assessment (100%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
Reading List
- "Interpreting for International Conferences" by Danica Seleskovitch
ISBN: 0960568638.
Publisher: Pen & Booth - "The Origins of Simultaneous Interpretation" by Francesca Gaiba
ISBN: 0776604570.
Publisher: University of Ottawa Press - "Inference and Anticipation in Simultaneous Interpreting" by G. V. Chernov
ISBN: 9027216630.
Publisher: John Benjamins Publishing - "Interpreters at the United Nations. A history" by Jesús Baigorri Jalón
ISBN: 8478006435.
Publisher: Universidad de Salamanca - "The Routledge Handbook of Interpreting" by Holly Mikkelson,Renee Jourdenais
ISBN: 9780415811668.
Publisher: Routledge - "Self-preservation in Simultaneous Interpreting" by Claudia Monacelli
ISBN: 9027224285.
Publisher: John Benjamins Publishing - "Interpreters Vs Machines" by Jonathan Downie
ISBN: 9781138586437.
Publisher: Routledge
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
OptionalAT123: Ateangaireacht Leantach II / Consecutive Interpreting II
AT123: Ateangaireacht Leantach II / Consecutive Interpreting II
Semester 1 and Semester 2 | Credits: 10
Students will be introduced to consecutive interpreting through specific listening exercises and will proceed from short consecutive speeches with and without note taking to technical speeches (>5 minutes). / Díreoidh an modúl seo ar bhunscileanna na hateangaireachta leantaí a fhorbairt. Díreofar ar cheachtanna éisteachta sainiúla agus óráidí bunúsacha ar dtús, gan nótaí. Le cabhair ó scileanna breactha nótaí tabharfar faoi óráidí teicniúla (>5 nóiméad).
Learning Outcomes
- Examine and develop the interpreter’s basic memory and analysis skills. / Scrúdófar agus forbrófar córchuimhne bhunúsach agus scileanna anailíse na hateangaire.
- Gain oversight of note taking techniques prescribed for successful consecutive interpreting. / Tabharfar léargas ginearálta ar scileanna breactha nótaí d’ateangaireacht leantach rathúil.
- Develop a personalised and reliable note taking system. / Forbrófar córas iontaofa ar leith um bhreacadh nótaí.
- Use note taking skills to interpret fluently and accurately on both general and technical subjects, seen and unseen for an audience. / Bainfear leas as na scileanna breactha nótaí ar leith chun ateangaireacht líofa, iontaofa, a dhéanamh ar ábhair ghinearálta agus theicniúla: ábhair ainmnithe agus nach bhfacthas cheana.
Assessments
- Oral, Audio Visual or Practical Assessment (100%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
Reading List
- "Conference Interpreting" by Andrew Gillies
ISBN: 9780415532341. - "Consecutive Interpreting" by Andrew Gillies
ISBN: 9781138123236.
Publisher: Translation Practices Explained - "Interpretation" by James Nolan
ISBN: 1853597910.
Publisher: Multilingual Matters Ltd - "Conference interpreting explained" by Roderick Jones
ISBN: 1900650576.
Publisher: St Jerome Pub - "Técnicas de interpretación consecutiva : la toma de notas : manual para el estudiante" by Clara Bosch March
ISBN: 9788490450055. - "Abairt ar abairt : advanced irish vocabulary" by n/a
ISBN: 0992646006.
Publisher: Cló an Leasa - "Interpreting for International Conferences" by Danica Seleskovitch
ISBN: 0960568638.
Publisher: Pen & Booth - "Interpréter pour traduire" by Danica Seleskovitch
ISBN: 2864600528.
Publisher: Didier-Erudition - "Introducing Interpreting Studies" by Franz Pöchhacker
ISBN: 9780203504802.
Publisher: Routledge
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
OptionalAT124: Ateangaireacht Chomhuaineach II / Simultaneous Interpreting II
AT124: Ateangaireacht Chomhuaineach II / Simultaneous Interpreting II
Semester 1 and Semester 2 | Credits: 15
This module aims to develop the skills that will enable students to listen to, understand, analyse a speech in a source language and simultaneously interpret this a speech fluently, conveying the speaker’s message in their target language. / Scileanna a fhorbairt chun éisteacht, tuiscint, anailís ar luas a dhéanamh ar óráid agus léiriú líofa iontaofa den bhrí a sholáthair sa sprioctheanga go comhuaineach.
Learning Outcomes
- Self-assess the strengths and weaknesses of an interpreting performance. / Féin mheasúnú a dhéanamh ar fheidhmiú na hateangaireachta. Láidreachtaí agus laigí san iarracht a aithint.
- Display an understanding of simultaneous interpreting techniques as well as professional etiquette, ethics, booth behaviour and team interaction. / Tuiscint ar theicnící na hateangaireachta comhuainigh a léiriú, chomh maith le béasaí oibre, nósanna na gairme, cúrsaí eitice agus comhar foirne.
- Actively listen to, understand, analyse a non technical speech in a source language and simultaneously interpret this speech fluently, conveying the speaker’s message in a target language. / Scileanna a fhorbairt chun éisteacht, tuiscint, anailís ar luas a dhéanamh ar ghnáth óráid agus ateangaireacht chomhuaineach, líofa, iontaofa a sholáthair ar bhrí an chainteora sa sprioctheanga.
- Actively listen to, understand, analyse a technical speech in a source language and simultaneously interpret this speech fluently, conveying the speaker’s message in a target language. Perform a fluent and accurate simultaneous interpretation of this technical speech. / Scileanna a fhorbairt chun éisteacht, tuiscint, anailís ar luas a dhéanamh ar óráid theicniúil agus sainiúil chun ateangaireacht chomhuaineach, líofa, iontaofa a sholáthair ar bhrí an chainteora sa sprioctheanga.
Assessments
- Oral, Audio Visual or Practical Assessment (100%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
Reading List
- "Interpreters at the United Nations. A history" by Jesús Baigorri Jalón
ISBN: 8478006435.
Publisher: Universidad de Salamanca - "The Origins of Simultaneous Interpretation" by Francesca Gaiba
ISBN: 0776604570.
Publisher: University of Ottawa Press - "Self-preservation in Simultaneous Interpreting" by Claudia Monacelli
ISBN: 9027224285.
Publisher: John Benjamins Publishing - "Inference and Anticipation in Simultaneous Interpreting" by G. V. Chernov
ISBN: 9027216630.
Publisher: John Benjamins Publishing
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
OptionalAT127: Ateangaireacht Leantach III / Consecutive Interpreting III
AT127: Ateangaireacht Leantach III / Consecutive Interpreting III
Semester 1 and Semester 2 | Credits: 10
Students will be introduced to consecutive interpreting through specific listening exercises and will proceed from short consecutive speeches with and without note taking to technical speeches (>5 minutes). / Díreoidh an modúl seo ar bhunscileanna na hateangaireachta leantaí a fhorbairt. Díreofar ar cheachtanna éisteachta sainiúla agus óráidí bunúsacha ar dtús, gan nótaí. Le cabhair ó scileanna breactha nótaí tabharfar faoi óráidí teicniúla (>5 nóiméad).
Learning Outcomes
- Examine and develop the interpreter’s basic memory and analysis skills. / Scrúdófar agus forbrófar córchuimhne bhunúsach agus scileanna anailíse na hateangaire.
- Gain oversight of note taking techniques prescribed for successful consecutive interpreting. / Tabharfar léargas ginearálta ar scileanna breactha nótaí d’ateangaireacht leantach rathúil.
- Develop a personalised and reliable note taking system. / Forbrófar córas iontaofa ar leith um bhreacadh nótaí.
- Use note taking skills to interpret fluently and accurately on both general and technical subjects, seen and unseen for an audience. / Bainfear leas as na scileanna breactha nótaí ar leith chun ateangaireacht líofa, iontaofa, a dhéanamh ar ábhair ghinearálta agus theicniúla: ábhair ainmnithe agus nach bhfacthas cheana.
Assessments
- Oral, Audio Visual or Practical Assessment (100%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
Reading List
- "Conference Interpreting" by Andrew Gillies
ISBN: 9780415532341. - "Consecutive Interpreting" by Andrew Gillies
ISBN: 9781138123236.
Publisher: Translation Practices Explained - "Interpretation" by James Nolan
ISBN: 1853597910.
Publisher: Multilingual Matters Ltd - "Conference interpreting explained" by Roderick Jones
ISBN: 1900650576.
Publisher: St Jerome Pub - "Conference Interpreting" by Valerie Taylor-Bouladon,David H. Barrett,Pieter Bruegel
ISBN: 1419660691.
Publisher: Booksurge Llc - "Conference Interpreting" by Yves Gambier,Daniel Gile,Christopher Taylor
ISBN: 9789027216267.
Publisher: John Benjamins Publishing
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
OptionalAT128: Ateangaireacht Chomhuaineach III / Simultaneous Interpreting III
AT128: Ateangaireacht Chomhuaineach III / Simultaneous Interpreting III
Semester 1 and Semester 2 | Credits: 15
This module aims to develop the skills that will enable students to listen to, understand, analyse a speech in a source language and simultaneously interpret this a speech fluently, conveying the speaker’s message in their target language. / Scileanna a fhorbairt chun éisteacht, tuiscint, anailís ar luas a dhéanamh ar óráid agus léiriú líofa iontaofa den bhrí a sholáthair sa sprioctheanga go comhuaineach.
Learning Outcomes
- Self-assess the strengths and weaknesses of an interpreting performance. / Féinmheasúnú a dhéanamh ar fheidhmiú na hateangaireachta. Láidreachtaí agus laigí san iarracht a aithint.
- Display an understanding of simultaneous interpreting techniques as well as professional etiquette, ethics, booth behaviour and team interaction. / Tuiscint ar theicnící na hateangaireachta comhuainigh a léiriú, chomh maith le béasaí oibre, nósanna na gairme, cúrsaí eitice agus comhar foirne.
- Actively listen to, understand, analyse a non technical speech in a source language and simultaneously interpret this speech fluently, conveying the speaker’s message in a target language. / Scileanna a fhorbairt chun éisteacht, tuiscint, anailís ar luas a dhéanamh ar ghnáth óráid agus ateangaireacht chomhuaineach, líofa, iontaofa a sholáthair ar bhrí an chainteora sa sprioctheanga.
- Actively listen to, understand, analyse a technical speech in a source language and simultaneously interpret this speech fluently, conveying the speaker’s message in a target language. Perform a fluent and accurate simultaneous interpretation of this technical speech. / Scileanna a fhorbairt chun éisteacht, tuiscint, anailís ar luas a dhéanamh ar óráid theicniúil agus sainiúil chun ateangaireacht chomhuaineach, líofa, iontaofa a sholáthair ar bhrí an chainteora sa sprioctheanga.
Assessments
- Oral, Audio Visual or Practical Assessment (100%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
Reading List
- "Interpreters at the United Nations. A history" by Jesús Baigorri Jalón
ISBN: 8478006435.
Publisher: Universidad de Salamanca - "The Origins of Simultaneous Interpretation" by Francesca Gaiba
ISBN: 0776604570.
Publisher: University of Ottawa Press - "Self-preservation in Simultaneous Interpreting" by Claudia Monacelli
ISBN: 9027224285.
Publisher: John Benjamins Publishing
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
- Unique: The only Conference Interpreting programme in Ireland and the only one in the world offering Irish.
- Range of modules: Includes consecutive, simultaneous, liaison, chucotage, RSI platforms, ethics and career options both practical and theoretical expertise, with a study visit to the EU institutions for dummy-booth experience.
- Teaching expertise: Learn from professional conference interpreters who remain active on the market and even train other trainers! Receive regular pedagogical input from the staff interpreters of the institutions of the European Union.
- Connections: Provides strong connections with EU institutions and the United Nations: offering real-world exposure to the profession.
- Master core concepts: Develop a solid foundation in consecutive and simultaneous interpreting, applying them to real-world contexts in specialised conference settings.
- Enhance technology skills: Build the ability to interpret using advanced tools and the remote simultaneous platforms in use on today’s market.
- Improve communication skills: Learn to effectively present and articulate your speaker’s message to a range of audiences, stakeholders and decision-makers.
- Strengthen multitasking abilities: Learn to listen, understand, analyse and reformulate a message in a different language through both theoretical and practical training.
- Develop professional expertise: A post-graduate qualification in conference Interpreting is essential in applying for the multitude of positions available to interpreters internationally Hone the skills required to succeed in these diverse roles, with examinations that mirror professional testing requirements.
With a focus on real-world application, career-relevant modules, and opportunities for placements and global experiences, the MA in Conference Interpreting prepares you for a wide range of exciting roles in the world of interpreting.
Students must obtain a postgraduate qualification in Conference Interpreting to allow them to sit the Inter-Institutional EU Accreditation Tests and work as a professional conference interpreter. Students completing this course can avail of considerable employment opportunities worldwide as interpreting services are frequently required at conferences, seminars and so on. Many graduates work with EU and UN institutions. Opportunities are also available outside the large international organisations.
International Field Trip
As part of the MA in Conference Interpreting, students have the opportunity to take part in a study visit to Brussels that bridges theory and practice, whilst exploring the peak of the interpreting profession at the European Institutions. This hands-on experience allows students to work in the interpreting booths of the Parliament and Commission and receive feedback from the staff working there to enhance their own performance.
Over the course of the trip, students connect with industry professionals, visit the institutions, and gain first-hand insight into the day-to-day work of interpreter.
For further information on the life of an interpreter, the following video from an MA in Conference Interpreting graduate highlights what you can expect from the profession: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J7XdnOZ1geU
The course meets international standards with regard to coursework requirements, content hours, and faculty standards necessary to become a Conference Interpreter.
All lecturers are qualified, accredited and active conference interpreters and have participated in continuous professional development with the European Commission in the form of “Training for Trainers”.
We have a Memorandum of Understanding with the European Parliament for Interpreter Training where both parties strive to cooperate in training with a new professional able to integrate modern information and communication technologies in their workplace and to pass the EU accreditation test.
The course is listed as a recommended programme by AIIC The International Association of Conference Interpreters which is the only global association of conference interpreters.
The programme meets all of AIICs essential standards
- The programme extends over at least 1 academic year (full-time)
- The course results in a master's level qualification
- Potential students take an aptitude test before admission
- The programme has been running for at least 1 academic year
- Schools don't benefit financially from assignments worked by students
- Students are trained in both simultaneous and consecutive interpretation
- Courses are designed and interpretation classes taught by professional conference interpreters
- Susan Folan
- Claudia Corriero
- Azucena Bermudez Perez
- Céline Terras
- Michael Starnberger
- Dr Rose Ní Dhubhda
How will I learn?
The MA in Conference Interpreting combines innovative teaching methods, with practical, hands-on learning and the latest interpreting technologies to ensure a comprehensive educational experience. You will learn through a mix of interactive lectures, seminars, conferences, note-taking workshops and skill-specific masterclasses led by expert faculty and guest trainers from our institutional partners. Pedagogical material and real-world speeches, will enable you to gradually apply classroom knowledge to professional situations.
Collaborative research activities and booth work with classmates will enhance your teamwork and communication skills, while work on the progressive programme of weekly topics, individual hands-on interpreting performances and the final dissertation will help you develop independence and critical thinking.
Throughout the programme, you will have access to cutting-edge resources, including industry-standard software and real-world datasets, to support your learning and professional growth.
How Will I Be Assessed?
Throughout the programme, your progress is assessed through presentations, research and practical interpreting work.
- Continuous Assessment - Regular coursework, including speech preparation and sight interpreting exercises. Students receive regular (weekly) feedback on their progress in all classes. (5 ECTs)
- Examinations - Practical interpreting exams account for 50 ECTs. Assessments are gradual in-line with the curriculum and take place before Christmas (midterm consecutive only 30%), in early Spring (midterm simultaneous only 30%) and final examinations in May. (all modes 70%)
- Thesi - An independent research dissertation of 20,00 words. (30ECTs)
Course queries:
interpreting@universityofgalway.ie
Ateangaireacht@universityofgalway.ie
Programme Director(s):
Susan Folan,
MA Director & Conference Interpreter
E: susan.folan@ollscoilnagaillimhe.ie
Ph: +353(0)91 495810
University of Galway recognises that knowledge and skills can be acquired from a range of learning experiences. This is in line with the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) goals which aim to recognise all learning achievements by supporting the development of alternative pathways to qualifications (or awards) and by facilitating the recognition of prior learning (RPL).
This programme is designed to provide graduates and mid-career linguists with the skills and knowledge needed to access the profession of interpreting at the highest levels.
Applicants who do not have the required academic qualifications for entry purposes, but have demonstrable professional experience as equivalent are eligible for consideration by the academic programme director.
Beyond fluency, interpreters need deep knowledge of cultural context, idioms, and subject matter to convey meaning accurately.
Graduates of the MA in Conference Interpreting will be able to:
- Demonstrate Language and cultural expertise: a breadth of understanding of a range of topics in each of their languages and the associated technical vocabulary and cultural understanding.
- Translate nuanced ideas from one language to another with a deep appreciation for both the source and the target audience.
- Retrieve, select, sift, analyse and articulate a range of sources to support original arguments.
- Apply enhanced critical thinking and analytical skills to their chosen field, building upon continuous feedback on their performance.
- Plan, manage, and execute a substantial independent study project highlighting their ability to self-assess and self-direct.
- Exhibit Professionalism and ethics: A strong ethical compass, including confidentiality, is a key requirement for professional interpreters.
Accreditations & Awards
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Entry Requirements and Fees
Minimum Entry Requirements
Candidates must hold at least a Second Class Honours Level 8 primary degree in a related subject area or hold a primary degree in a related area (which is acceptable to the college) without honours and have three years’ relevant practical experience in the subject area.
Academic entry requirements standardised per country are available here.
English Language Entry Requirements
For applicants whose first language is not English, an English language proficiency of IELTS score of 6.5 is required (with no less than 6.5 in Writing and no less than 6.0 in any other band) or equivalent.
More information on English language test equivalency are available here.
Supporting Documents
You will be required to provide supporting documentation as part of your application. You can check here what supporting documents are required for this course.
You can apply online to the University of Galway application portal here.
Please review the entry requirements set out in the section above.
You will be required to upload supporting documentation to your application electronically. See the section above on entry requirements for further information on the supporting documentation required for this course.
Closing Dates
For this programme, there is no specific closing date for receipt of applications. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and course quotes will be reviewed continuously throughout the application cycle.
Notes
- You will need an active email account to use the website and you'll be guided through the system, step by step, until you complete the online form.
- Browse the FAQ's section for further guidance.
Fees for Academic Year 2026/27
| Course Type | Year | EU Tuition | Student Contribution | Non-EU Tuition | Levy | Total Fee | Total EU Fee | Total Non-EU Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Masters Full Time | 1 | €7,900 | €19,300 | €140 | €8,040 | €19,440 |
For 26/27 entrants, where the course duration is greater than 1 year, there is an inflationary increase approved of 1.8% per annum for continuing years fees.
Postgraduate students in receipt of a SUSI grant – please note an F4 grant is where SUSI will pay €4,500 towards your tuition (2026/27). You will be liable for the remainder of the total fee. A P1 grant is where SUSI will pay tuition up to a maximum of €6,270. SUSI will not cover the student levy of €140.
Note to non-EU students: learn about the 24-month Stayback Visa here.
Postgraduate Excellence Scholarships
This scholarship is valued at €1,500 for EU students applying for full-time taught master's postgraduate courses. You will be eligible if:
- You have been accepted to a full-time taught master's course at University of Galway,
- You have attained a first class honours (or equivalent) in a Level 8 primary degree.
An application for the scholarship scheme is required (separate to the application for a place on the programme). The application portal for 2025 is now open and available here. Applications will close on the 30th September 2025. Full details available here.
Global Scholarships
University of Galway offers a range of merit-based scholarships to students from a number of countries outside of the EU. Visit here for schemes currently available.
Application Process
Students applying for full time postgraduate programmes from outside of the European Union (EU), You can apply online to the University of Galway application portal here.
Our application portal opens on the 1st October each year for entry the following September.
Further Information
Please visit the postgraduate admissions webpage for further information on closing dates, documentation requirements, application fees and the application process.
Why University of Galway?
World renowned research led university nestled in the vibrant heart of Galway city on Ireland's scenic West Coast.
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Course Introduction
Training professional Conference Interpreters for a dynamic multilingual career.
We are preparing graduates to take a leading role in facilitating multilingual communication at international institutions. Practical and practice-based, the MA in Conference Interpreting equips students with the reflexive, linguistic, conference interpreting skills vital to successful communication in international & multilingual organisations.
Conference Interpreting Brochure
