What to study To Become a Professional Translator

What to study To Become a Professional Translator

To become a professional translator, you will need to master the language you will be working with, so having a major in languages could be a great way to get started. But, you don’t necessarily need to have a degree in languages, as long as you are fluent in the language you will be working with.

Speaking two or more languages does not make anyone a translator. Translators need more than extensive linguistic knowledge about the target and source language. A need of cultural awareness, it is crucial for anyone wanting to stay in business. Cultural awareness is not only about learning stereotypes and generalizations. It is about the different cultures in one country due to the different ethnic groups, religions and education. It is recommended that translators travel frequently, so they can keep up with the evolution of language. Not all regions or countries, in which a language is spoken, use the same words to denote an item. In fact, what is an OK word in one country can be an insult in a neighbor country.

What translators usually do after entering this profession is to enroll into a recognized and respected translation course, study some practical and theoretical translation aspects and with the help of their previous experiences in this work field they decide to take an examination to get certified and accredited by translation associations and organizations. If you would like to become a certified translator, we recommend you first, to take an exam to become a certified translator which you can find it online or on site programs and, once you have become more experienced, and wish to have a recognized and officially authorized translation certification you may go ahead and pursue other Governmental licenses.

Here is a list of a few accredited Legal Translation Organizations:
  • The National Association of Judiciary Interpreters and Translators
  • The United Nations
  • The Institute of Linguists
  • Institute of Translation and Interpreting
  • La Société Française des Traducteurs
  • U.S. National Association of Judiciary Interpreters and Translators
By Vanessa Greenway, CTP Associate

Additional Related Resources:

1. Translator Certification
2. Translator FAQ
3. Online Translator Training
4. Translator Designation
5. Translation Certificate

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