The bachelor's degree in translation and interpreting is a first-cycle programme consisting of 180 credits spread over three years (60 credits in year 1, year 2 and year 3). There are two streams for students to choose from: a traditional translation and interpreting programme or an intercultural communication programme.
Translation and interpreting programme
The programme covers three main areas:
- The French language: translation and interpreting are carried out from the foreign language into French, which students have a perfect command of. The programme therefore places great emphasis on perfecting French language skills through many courses spread over the three years of the bachelor's degree.
- Foreign languages: the aim is to acquire a thorough knowledge of at least two other languages. A large part of the programme is therefore devoted to practising foreign languages, discovering cultures and learning about translation and interpreting.
- General education: translation and interpreting require a solid general education at university level. For example, introductory courses in law, economics, sociology and new linguistic technologies help students to enrich their general knowledge.
Intercultural communication programme
The programme covers three main areas:
1. The French language: translation and interpreting are carried out from the foreign language into French, which students have a perfect command of. The programme therefore places great emphasis on perfecting French language skills through many courses spread over the three years of the bachelor's degree.
2. Foreign languages: the aim is to acquire a thorough knowledge of at least two other languages. A large part of the programme is therefore devoted to practising foreign languages, discovering cultures and learning about translation and interpreting.
3. Introduction to communication sciences: the aim is to provide a background in communication in multicultural contexts. Courses in communication sciences, organisational communications and sociology – some of which can be taken in English or Dutch – provide students with knowledge and skills in communication.
Language combinations
When deciding on their programme, students choose a language combination:
| Language combinations | English | German | Arabic | Chinese | Spanish | Italian | Sign Language | Dutch | Russian | Turkish |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English | x | x | x | x | x | x | x | x | x | |
| German | x* | x | x | x |
*This programme is specifically for German-speaking students.
Courses in oral and written language, grammar, translation and interpreting are offered in all language combinations.
Some languages require prior knowledge: English and Dutch courses are based on secondary school prerequisites. The Saint-Louis - Bruxelles campus offers summer preparatory courses in these two languages.
No prerequisites are required for the other languages, for which beginners' courses are offered. For German and Spanish, students will be divided into groups based on a language test taken at the start of the academic year.
At the end of the bachelor's programme, students will have acquired a thorough knowledge of the two foreign languages chosen, a command of the subtleties of the French language and solid general knowledge. They will be well prepared for their future career.
Specific programme for German-speaking students
As a German speaker, a specific programme is available to you if you choose English and German. The programme includes practice courses in French grammar for German speakers and gives them the opportunity to translate from French into German in a large part of the translation courses. These courses are taught by French- and German-speaking professors.
You may also take part in an ERASMUS exchange in a German-speaking country or many other destinations – including France and the United Kingdom – in order to perfect your knowledge of another language in your language combination.
Introduction to the study of a third foreign language
After acquiring the 60 credits in year 1, students may add introductory courses in a third foreign language in addition to their bachelor's degree. This means that you are able to add 15 credits to your programme, which will be listed in the annexe to your diploma. This represents a true asset for your future academic and professional career.