Frequently Asked Questions

How do I declare a Minor in Translation Studies?

We would love to meet with you! Make an appointment with the translation advisor and get started.

Do I have to specialize in a foreign language?

Most approved course plans for the Minor will include at least one upper-level course in a second language. However, students interested in translating across different media, technologies, or disciplines may petition for an exception to the language rule, by proposing an upper-level course that develops other skills relevant to the capstone translation project.

Do I have to specialize in literary studies?

No! The Minor is designed with flexibility for students to explore and engage translation in many disciplinary and interdisciplinary contexts. Our minors pursue the relationship between text and dance, they work towards social justice by helping immigrants navigate the complex cultural and legal challenges of living in the US, they think about the relationship between translation and artificial intelligence – the possibilities are endless!

Are there internship opportunities?

Students can propose internships as the basis of a capstone project. The Department of Comparative Literature will assist you in finding leads for internships in many professional settings.

Can I work on the Minor during study abroad?

Yes! Students are strongly encouraged to pursue language training and translation activities during study abroad. Some courses are even counted toward your requirements for the Minor. You can also consult with the advisor about working on your capstone project during study abroad.

How do I plan for my capstone project?

Students consult with the Translation Studies advisor to submit a proposal for the capstone project. A checklist is provided to complete each phase of the project and to register for three credits (usually during the fall or winter term of the senior year).

What can I do with a Minor in Translation Studies?

Our minor gives students the opportunity to develop original work, and the flexibility to set them apart in a competitive market and countless career paths. While the Minor is not intended to certify students as professional translators or interpreters, it may prepare students to pursue certification or other professional credentials in translation after graduation. According to the Department of Labor, translators and interpreters are expected to be one of the 15 fastest growing occupations in the nation. Fortune 500 companies are desperately seeking to hire employees with excellent foreign language skills – as are a growing number of federal and state government agencies.