Training Courses for New Translators - How to Get Started

Training Courses for New Translators - How to Get Started

Translation can be a very rewarding career for those who love language, have a good work ethic, and are determined to succeed. While translation technically requires nothing more than an intimate knowledge of two or more languages, you will need a high level of education to be successful. Most jobs these days require at least a bachelor's degree. You might also consider attending a translator certification program to help you get started in the industry. These programs can teach you more about your chosen language as well as industry best practices. Best of all, you can learn from experts with years of experience in the field.

The first option is to get an internship. If you are still in college, this might be a good option to consider. Although you might have to start with an unpaid internship, this can be a valuable learning experience. You will have the opportunity to watch professional translators as they work. You can also learn more about the industry this way. Finally, some internships can lead to permanent positions. While you are at the company, do the best job you can. If nothing else, an internship will look good on your resume!

The next option is to attend a translator training course at a university. This option can be expensive and time consuming depending on which program you choose. While some programs are fairly short, others might take a year or two to complete. You may as well choose to get your master's degree in translation if the program will take a long time to finish. The advantage of these programs is that you can interact directly with your professors while picking up valuable knowledge about the industry. If you are not an independent learner, this might be the best choice for you.

Online training and certification programs are quite popular as well. Many online certification programs take as little as two months to complete. They are also relatively inexpensive when compared to seminars or university courses. Generally, online courses cost from $300 to $700 depending on the program. You will need to be highly motivated in order to succeed, but for independent learners online courses are the best option. You will be able to learn at your own pace and at your convenience. Many programs also have a team of professional translators available to answer student questions. These programs also prepare you for real-world challenges. Although online training courses are not the best choice for everyone, they can be a good alternative to traditional courses.

-By Adriana Tassini

The following Translator Q & A is part of our Translator FAQ Series.Question:Answer: Learn more:Tags: