Translation Studies at Auckland University 2008

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Translation and

Interpreting Studies

at the

University of Auckland


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Centre for Translation and Interpreting Studies, University of Auckland, New ZealandLatest version: 22 January 2008

Are You Thinking About Studying Translation or

Interpreting at the University of Auckland?

Thanks so much for your interest in our postgraduate translation and interpretingprogrammes. In this brochure well try to answer as many of your questions as we can,

so that you have all the information you need to make the best decision for your

professional future.

Well start off with a brief introduction to translation and interpreting, then look at the

individual programmes in more depth (including a list of the available courses), and

then provide some sample student programmes to give you an idea of how you might

structure your course of study. Finally well also tell you a bit about Aucklands Centre

for Translation and Interpreting Studies, and provide answers to a list of FAQs

regarding fees, application procedures, and other important concerns.

What is Translation? What is Interpreting?

And Why Study Them?

First of all, lets make sure we all understand what we're talking about:

Translation involves the conversion of a written text from one language to another. Interpreting involves the conversion of the spoken word from one language to

another.

Translators mostly work into their mother tongue (or the language with which they feel

most comfortable), while interpreters, especially in so-called community interpreting(e.g. in hospitals or courts), work both into and out of their mother tongue.

In addition, the term translation can be applied in a broader sense whenever the meaning

of one language is turned into another language, whether its written, spoken, or even

sign language.

People often believe that anyone who speaks a second language can automatically

translate or interpret. Speaking another language, however, is only the beginning.

Subject knowledge, social and cultural competence within two linguistic communities,

professional and technological skills, as well as ethics, are all essential for the

professional translator or interpreter.

Studying translation or interpreting can open doors to a variety of career opportunities,

including work in international organizations, within health and community

organisations, in international business and trade, online and offline publishing, or

software and website localisation.

Given the dynamics of globalisation, opportunities for translators and interpreters are

becoming more easily available. Translators and interpreters play a vital role in glo-

balisation, allowing the smooth functioning of trade, political negotiation and dialogue,

and assisting with business and organisational relationships across language and cultural

borders. And with the increasing presence of international trade treaties and common

markets, good translators and interpreters are becoming increasingly sought-after.


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In New Zealand, as in many other countries, most translators work as freelancers,

advertising themselves over the internet and within their local communities, and do

work sent to them by translation agencies or directly by end clients. In addition, some

work fixed hours for a company as an in-house translator or for a translation agency.

Translators can, and most likely will, specialise in various subject areas, such assoftware localisation (translating software for a regional market), technical translation in

a variety of fields (e.g. automotive, medical, legal), literary translation, and website

translation. In New Zealand, translation associated with business and trade is the most

highly demanded at present.

Interpreting is also a growing industry in New Zealand, with a current shortage of

interpreters in most languages. Interpreters may work with government agencies,

refugee and migrant organisations, or with the judicial and health systems. Most

interpreting work here belongs to the area of community interpreting, i.e. it satisfies the

needs of ethnic communities (for example in hospitals or courts).

What is Translation Studies?

Translation Studies (TS) is the academic discipline that deals with the above activities.

It contains both theoretical and practical elements. One of the main ideas of our

approach to the discipline is that the theory informs the practice of translation.

The theoretical side deals with important questions such as:

What is equivalence between two translated texts? Are some language pairs easier to translate between than others? Why? How do you translate an untranslatable word? How do cultural factors influence translation? How has globalisation affected modern translation? What has been the effect of new technology on translation? Will computers make human translators obsolete? What is the history of Translation Studies as a discipline?

By studying the practical side, on the other hand, you gain linguistic and pragmatic

skills, and come to understand contemporary translation technologies and those other

professional issues necessary for aspiring translators and interpreters to have mastery of

in order to succeed in an ever-growing and increasingly competitive language market.

At the University of Auckland, you can study TS at postgraduate level. The following

options are available:

Postgraduate Diploma in Translation StudiesMaster of Professional Studies in TranslationPostgraduate Certificate in Advanced InterpretingDoctor of Philosophy in Translation StudiesCertificates of Proficiency

In the next section, well describe each of these options in more detail.


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Competence in one of the languages offered for the Postgraduate Diplomaequivalent to at least a B+ grade in a language course at Stage III or above at

this University; and

Proficiency in English to at least the standard of IELTS 7 or equivalent, if yourfirst language is not English.

Duration

One year full-time or up to four years part-time.

Required Course of Study

120 points as follows:

Core courses:

30 points: TRANSLAT 702 and 703Optional courses:

30 points from CHINESE 725, FRENCH 720, GERMAN 740, GREEK 714,715, ITALIAN 702, JAPANESE 705, KOREAN 705, LATIN 714, 715, MAORI

712, RUSSIAN 732, SPANISH 723, TRANSLAT 707

and

60 points from CHINESE 733, 734, FRENCH 700, GERMAN 701, GREEK710, 711, ITALIAN 700, JAPANESE 704, 706, KOREAN 700, 701, LATIN

710, 711, MAORI 713, PACIFIC 701, RUSSIAN 710, SPANISH 700,

TRANSLAT 704-723

With the approval of the Coordinating Committee, Special Language Studies 700 levelcourses (for language study overseas) may be substituted for points from language

acquisition courses.

For a list of the available courses, see the Faculty of Arts 2008 Postgraduate Handbook,

or visit the courses webpage:

http://www.cce.auckland.ac.nz/departments/index.cfm?P=735

For the Calendar regulations applying to this qualification, see here:

http://www.auckland.ac.nz/uoa/fms/default/uoa/Students/Current%20Students/academic

%20life/calendar/regart.pdf(page 82).

The Master of Professional Studies (MProfStuds) in Translation

This is a one-year full-time or up to four years part-time programme. Its a fifth-year

qualification, which can build on those skills acquired while studying the Postgraduate

Diploma in Translation Studies. However, its also a good choice for students who have

completed a BA (Honours) or a Masters in a different field, such as a foreign language,

and who are looking for an alternative career option. It places equal emphasis on the

acquisition of theoretical knowledge and the honing of practical skills.

Youll have the opportunity to specialise in either technical (including localization) or

literary translation, translation theory, or community interpreting. Youll do a 10,000 or


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15,000 word thesis (depending on whether you choose the 30 or 45-point dissertation

option), as well as a practical translation project (which can also be 10,000 or 15,000

words), which could be the translation of a chapter from a book, or a manual, or even

the localisation of a website, with the emphasis being a pragmatic one, so that the

resulting text can be used. Both the thesis and the translation project dont require anyon-campus time, giving you maximum flexibility to combine work, family/social life,

and study.

When deciding in which subject area to do your dissertation, the best idea is to choose

the area that interests you most, and then to discuss this with the Director of the Centre

for Translation and Interpreting Studies ([email protected]), who can help

you make a decision. Williams and Chestermans (2002) bookThe Map [seeAppendix

1] is also a useful source of ideas.

Take a look atAppendix 2 at the end of this brochure for some ideas regarding different

areas of specialisation.

MProfStuds Overview

Admission Requirements

A four year Bachelors degree, or A Bachelors (Honours) degree, or A Bachelors degree combined with either a professional qualification equivalent

to one years advanced study or at least three years of relevant professional

experience.

Duration

One year full-time or up to four years part-time.


120 points as follows:

Taught Masters (Research Masters not available).

Either:

30 points from TRANSLAT 702, 703, 724, COMPLIT 703 60 points from TRANSLAT 702- 729, COMPLIT 703, 705, CHINESE 725,

FRENCH 720, GERMAN 740, 741, GREEK 714, 715, ITALIAN 702,

JAPANESE 705, KOREAN 705, LATIN 714, 715, MAORI 712, RUSSIAN 732,SPANISH 723

30 points from TRANSLAT 790, ASIAN 790, FRENCH 790, GERMAN 780,ITALIAN 780, PACIFIC 785, RUSSIAN 790

or:

30 points from TRANSLAT 702, 703, 724, COMPLIT 703 45 points from TRANSLAT 702-729, COMPLIT 703, 705, CHINESE 725,

FRENCH 720, GERMAN 740, GREEK 714, 715, ITALIAN 702, JAPANESE

705, KOREAN 705, LATIN 714, 715, MAORI 712, RUSSIAN 732, SPANISH

723


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45 points from TRANSLAT 792, ASIAN 792, FRENCH 792, GERMAN 792,ITALIAN 792, MAORI 792, PACIFIC 792, RUSSIAN 792, SPANISH 792


or visit the courses webpage:http://www.cce.auckland.ac.nz/departments/index.cfm?P=735


http://www.arts.auckland.ac.nz/students/index.cfm?P=10466

Postgraduate Certificate in Advanced Interpreting (PGCertAdvInterp)

The Postgraduate Certificate in Advanced Interpreting has a strong focus on community

interpreting, with special emphasis placed on the professional reality of interpreting in

New Zealand. The programmes structure and goals reflect the belief that interpreters inmedical, legal and business contexts work at a fully professional level. To prepare you

academically and practically for this profession, the Certificate is based on research

from applied linguistics, communication and interpreting studies, as well as the

professional areas of medicine, law and business.

The programme is made up of three courses. The first course offers an introduction to

interpreting, in which youll focus on the theories, techniques (including public

speaking and the Geneva notation system) and ethics that are essential for interpreters

working in legal, medical, and business settings. Youre encouraged to think critically

about the interpreting process and their individual roles, linking theory with practice.

This course provides you with a solid basic understanding of interpreting in general,while deepening your knowledge and ability to problem-solve, specifically in the area

of community interpreting. The second course exposes you to the main areas and

terminologies of the three subject areas most in demand in the New Zealand market: law,

medicine, and business. The third and final component of the programme is a

comprehensive interpreting practice course, in which youll simulate interpreting

situations and work with your main language combinations.

PGCertAdvInterp Overview

Admission Requirements

A completed Bachelors degree, or an approved equivalent combination oftertiary study and professional qualifications and/or experience; and

Competence in English and an approved further language or languages to atleast the following levels:

o an IELTS score of 7.5 in the oral band for non-native speakers of English.o for languages other than English, oral and written competency equivalent

to at least the level of advanced undergraduate courses at this University.

o An interview in both languages and an aptitude test is required.Duration

One semester full-time or up to four semesters part-time.


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60 points: TRANSLAT 601, 602, and 605


or visit the courses webpage:http://www.cce.auckland.ac.nz/departments/index.cfm?P=735


http://www.auckland.ac.nz/uoa/fms/default/uoa/Students/Current%20Students/academic

%20life/calendar/regart.pdf(page 83).

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Translation Studies

If you have a strong background in two languages and any other field of study and youwish to undertake a PhD thesis on a topic in translation, then you can contact the

Director of the Centre for Translation Studies ([email protected]) who will

advise you on the formulation of a project and assist with locating possible co-

supervisors.

The PhD is an opportunity for you to engage in advanced research. This research can be

carried out in any area within the Faculty of Arts, provided that supervision is available

and that the research proposal and supervision arrangements are approved by the

University. The demands of PhD research require a significant commitment in terms of

time and resources.

A thesis of an internationally recognised standard is one that makes an original

contribution to knowledge or understanding in its field. Normally the thesis may not

exceed 100,000 words or 250 pages. An oral examination takes place after the thesis has

been submitted.

Duration

The PhD is expected to be completed in three or four full-time years, although it may be

possible to complete on a part-time basis.

Admission

The usual requirement is a Masters degree with Honours (First Class or Second Class,First Division) from the University of Auckland, or an approved equivalent

qualification from New Zealand or overseas. You must also have demonstrated an

ability to pursue doctoral level research. All candidates must submit a research proposal

and obtain registration.

Its also worth noting that international students enrolling for a PhD only have to pay

New Zealand domestic fees.

For more general information about this qualification, see

http://www.cce.auckland.ac.nz/departments/index.cfm?P=1343 and here:

http://www.arts.auckland.ac.nz/students/index.cfm?P=217, rr take a look at Faculty of

Arts 2008 Postgraduate Handbook.


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Certificates of Proficiency

If you want to study just one or two Translation or Interpreting courses without studying

a whole postgraduate qualification, a Certificate of Proficiency (COP) is an option.

These certificates will give you recognition for taking a course, although theyre notcreditable towards a degree. Certificates of Proficiency represent an excellent

opportunity to enrol in courses that allow you to upgrade your translation or interpreting

skills.

You can take any course or courses for the Certificate of Proficiency, provided that you

have the approval of the Associate Dean of Arts (Students) and you have passed any

prerequisites (and have obtained approval from the department to enrol).

Courses may not be cross-credited to any subsequent postgraduate programme. Courses

taken for a COP may not be subsequently transferred into a BA(Hons) or MA.

There are two types of Certificates of Proficiency.The first option is COPUA: Certificate of Proficiency University of Auckland. This is

the option suitable for domestic students, who want to study translation or interpreting

papers without studying a full qualification, or for those language professionals who

wish to add to their competency in a particular area (such as Translat 723 taken as a

refresher course in Trados and Dj Vu, for example).

The second is COPOS: Certificate of Proficiency Overseas. This is suitable for those

international students who are only staying for one semester or who arent able to

complete a full program of study, but who want to study a translation or interpreting

paper.

Course Descriptions

TRANSLAT 702 Theory and Methodology of Translation (15 points)

Semester 1

This course will provide an introduction to the discipline of translation studies and to

translation theories that have originated and developed during the twentieth century.

Applying a diachronic perspective, it will attempt to give an overview of major

translation paradigms focusing on the second half of the twentieth century. Among

these modern approaches, we will deal in greater detail with theories of translation,

applying their theoretical principles and methods to the hypothetical translation of

different text types. Overall, the concept of translation and the role of the translator will

be regarded as key parameters in the analysis and comparison of different approaches to

translation.

Convenor: Associate Professor Frank Austermhl

TRANSLAT 703 Issues in Translation (15 points)

Semester 2

This course discusses the place of translation studies and that of the translator in a

globalised world. Continuing the discussion of major translation theories that we started

in the first semester, students will be introduced to three new approaches: Polysystems

theory, descriptive translation studies (especially translation and norms), and post-


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colonial translation studies. These modern paradigms will be embedded in a larger

discussion of the impact that globalisation has had on the role and image of translators.

In this context, special emphasis will be placed on the role of digital tools and resources

for translators and the concept of localization as a possible new paradigm in translation

studies.Convenor: Associate Professor Frank Austermhl

TRANSLAT 704 Contextual Studies (15 points)

Semester 1

Introduces translators to a variety of professional areas in which they will be working

and extends their knowledge and understanding of the general structure of these subject

areas. A special focus will be on the terminologies, i.e. the specialized vocabularies, of

the disciplines covered. The subject areas dealt with reflect the professional reality of

translators and interpreters in New Zealand and include, among other things, law,

business, and medicine.

Convenor: Associate Professor Frank AustermhlRestriction: TRANSLAT 602

TRANSLAT 706Theory, Ethics and Techniques of Interpreting (15 points)

Semester 1

This course offers an overview of the discipline of interpreting, with special emphasis

on community interpreting. We will focus on the theories, techniques (including public


working in legal, medical, and business settings. Students are encouraged to think

critically about the interpreting process and their individual roles, linking theory with

practice. This course provides students with a solid basic understanding of interpreting

in general, while deepening their knowledge of and problem-solving in the area of

community interpreting specifically.


Restriction: TRANSLAT 601

TRANSLAT 707Advanced Translation Practice (30 points)

Semester 2

The focus is on further developing competence in translation. Students will translate a

wide variety of professional texts. Emphasis is on longer texts, which may require

special subject knowledge and terminology research.


TRANSLAT 710 Research Tools and Professional Issues (15 points)

Semester 1

This course introduces students to a wide range of computer skills for professional

translators, covering a number of translation-related IT topics from file management to

word processing to information research and management. Participants will learn how

to set up an efficient professional IT environment and how to use software solutions

(e.g. terminology databases) to improve both the quality and the productivity of their

work. In addition to learning how to search, find, and evaluate information on the

internet, students will also be introduced to the editing and translation of websites. The

part of the course on electronic tools will be complemented with sessions aimed at


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showing how translators can set up their own businesses in both the local and global

markets.


TRANSLAT 721 Revising and Editing for Translators (15 points)Semester 1

This course will provide an introduction on how to produce clear, concise and correct

texts in English. We will analyse the concepts of editing and revising, and introduce

four types of editing. Our discussions will then deal with the four types individually,

starting with the macro level of texts. We will then focus on two types of micro-level

editing considered to be most useful for practising translators: copy editing and stylistic

editing. The first involves correcting texts to bring them into conformity with the rules

of a language community, and covers topics such as: using house styles, checking for

spelling and typographical errors as well as for syntax, idiom, punctuation, and usage.

In addition, we will analyse - and apply - revision and quality assessment techniques

with the aid of word processing software. Finally, students will be able to complementthe development of writing skills with oral and communication skills.


Restriction: This course is available only to students of non-English speaking

backgrounds.

TRANSLAT 722 English Discourse for Translators (15 points)

Semester 2

English discourse from a linguistic viewpoint. Examines the relationship between

choices about words, word order, grammatical forms and sentence types, and specific

discourse functions, social and pragmatic functions and context.

Restriction: This course is available only to students of non-English speaking

backgrounds.

TRANSLAT 723 Translation Memories (15 points)

Semester 1, repeated Semester 2

This course will provide students with an overview of and hands-on experience in the

use of two market-leading translation memory systems, namely Dj Vu and Trados.

Both translation memory systems support common features such as: Project

management, translation memory management and translation memory maintenance,

terminology management, word counts and statistical reports, editing of different file

formats, quality assurance, etc. This course aims at introducing students to modernelectronic translation environments, and providing them with practical advice on how

translation memory systems can best be integrated into the translation process. Working

with two different translation memory systems will provide students with useful insight

to assess such systems and the way they affect the translation process.


TRANSLAT 724 Localization (30 points)

Semester 2

This course covers theoretical and practical questions of localization, i.e. the translation

and adaptation of software, websites, and other electronic texts. Over the course of the

last ten years, the translation of websites and computer applications has become a


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dominant topic in translation, affecting both theory and practice. Students will analyse a

variety of electronic (or screen) texts and will learn to translate software applications

and websites using a variety of computer-based translation tools. Also deals with

theoretical issues arising from the localization paradigm.


TRANSLAT 725 Research Essay (15 points)

Semester 1, repeated Semester 2

A supervised research essay or project on a specific topic in translation studies.


TRANSLAT 726Translation Project(30 points)

TRANSLAT 726 A &B Translation Project(30 points)

Semester 1, or Semester 2, or Semester 1 and 2 (full year)


To complete this course students must enrol in TRANSLAT 726 (if single semester) orTRANSLAT 726 A and B (if full year).


TRANSLAT 727Translation Project(45 points)

TRANSLAT 727 A &B Translation Project(45 points)



To complete this course students must enrol in TRANSLAT 727 (if single semester) or

TRANSLAT 727 A and B (if full year).


TRANSLAT 728 Special Topic (15 points)

Availability and details to be advised

TRANSLAT 729 Special Topic (15 points)

Availability and details to be advised

TRANSLAT 790 Dissertation (30 points)

TRANSLAT 790 A &B Dissertation (30 points)


To complete this course students must enrol in TRANSLAT 790 (if single semester) orTRANSLAT 790 A and B (if full year).

TRANSLAT 792 Dissertation (45 points)

TRANSLAT 792 A &B Dissertation (45 points)





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Interpreting Courses

TRANSLAT 601 Theory, Ethics and Techniques of Interpreting (15 points)

Semester 1

This course offers an overview of the discipline of interpreting, with special emphasison community interpreting. We will focus on the theories, techniques (including public


working in legal, medical, and business settings. Students are encouraged to think

critically about the interpreting process and their individual roles, linking theory with

practice. This course provides students with a solid basic understanding of interpreting

in general, while deepening their knowledge of and problem-solving in the area of

community interpreting specifically.



TRANSLAT 602 Contextual Studies (15 points)Semester 1

Introduces translators to a variety of professional areas in which they will be working

and extends their knowledge and understanding of the general structure of these subject

areas. A special focus will be on the terminologies, i.e. the specialized vocabularies, of

the disciplines covered. The subject areas dealt with reflect the professional reality of

translators and interpreters in New Zealand and include, among other things, law,

business, and medicine.



TRANSLAT 605 Advanced Interpreting Practice (30 points)

TRANSLAT 605 A &B Advanced Interpreting Practice (30 points)


Students will be taken from basic interpreting skills, in the context of triads, and short

segments of discourse through to unilateral consecutive interpreting in legal, medical

and business settings of medium to long stretches of discourse.




Language Acquisition and Advanced Translation Courses

See the Faculty of Arts 2007 Postgraduate Handbook for information on the Advanced

Translation Practice courses which apply to your language combination, which are

organised by the language departments concerned.

Also, if you are a native speaker of English, have a look at the same Handbook for more

information on the Language Acquisition courses for your particular second language.


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Sample Student Programmes

George Johnson, a native English speaker from New Zealand, wants to study full-time

towards a Postgraduate Diploma in Translation Studies, with Spanish as his second

language. He has already done an undergraduate degree in Spanish, at another New

Zealand university. His year would look something like this:

Semester One

Translat 702 Theory and Methodology of Translation 15

Spanish 700 Language Acquisition 30

Translat 710 Research Tools and Professional Issues 15

Semester Two

Translat 703 Issues in Translation 15

Translat 723 Translation Memories 15

Spanish 723 Advanced Spanish Translation 30

Total 120

Zheng Xi, a native speaker of Standard Mandarin, would like to study a Postgraduate

Certificate in Advanced Interpreting. He could take up to four semesters to complete

the Certificate if necessary, although it is easily done in one or two. If he chose to, he

could then go on to study a Master of Professional Studies in Translation, specialising in

community interpreting.

Semester OneTranslat 601 Theory, Ethics and Techniques of Interpreting 15

Translat 602 Contextual Studies 30

Semester Two Translat 605 Advanced Interpreting Practice (Chinese) 30

Total 60

Misaki Saionji, a native speaker of Japanese, wants to study a Master of Professional

Studies in Translation. She has already begun studying translation in Japan, and would

like to go straight to the next level! First, she would contact the Graduate Advisor of the

Translation Studies department, who would discuss her Japanese academic record with

her, to find out what she would need to study here, and which Japanese university

courses could be credited towards her University of Auckland degree. Depending on

what is decided, she may study Translat 702 and Translat 703, doing her dissertation in

an area that interests her (Translat 792, 45 points; or Translat 790, 30 points), along

with a translation project (Translat 726 and 727, 30 and 45 points respectively). She

may also wish to study Translat 721 (Revising and Editing for Translators) or Translat

722 (English Discourse for Translators), given that she is not a native speaker of

English. She could take up to four years part-time to complete her Masters, but one or

two years would be recommended. (See Appendix 2 at the end of the brochure for an

overview of other options that she could take).


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Alessandra Mazzinghi, a native speaker of Italian, is visiting New Zealand for just one

semester. She cant stay long enough to study a full qualification, but she would like to

experience a New Zealand university, and is interested in translation. She could take

just one paper, Translat 703 (Issues in Translation), for example, and credit it towards a

Certificate of Proficiency Overseas (COPOS). This will enable her to receiveofficial recognition of her study, even though she will not be able to credit that paper

towards a degree at Auckland University, should she decide to return at a later date.

Jared Smith is a native English speaker from New Zealand, who works in the

translation industry as a freelancer. He has been working for several years, and would

simply like to do a refresher course in the areas of translation memories or localisation.

In this case he could take Translat 723 (Translation Memories) or Translat 724

(Localization), and receive a Certificate of Proficiency University of Auckland

(COPUA), which will provide an official record of his study in the course that he

chooses.

Profile of the Centre for Translation

and Interpreting Studies

The Centre was established in 1998 and reflects a response to New Zealands increasing

internationalisation and the growing prominence of translation and interpreting. The

main objective of the Centre is to provide a modern programme in Translation Studies

and Interpreting that focuses on the role of the translator and interpreter in the age of

globalisation and automation. This approach includes political, economic, cultural and

technological aspects.

The Centre and its staff offer a high level of expertise in such state-of-the-art areas as

translation technology, translation pedagogy, and translation and politics (all areas with

ongoing research projects), and it is one of the most progressive in the world and unique

in Australasia. Given the current and future demand for translation between Chinese and

English, the Centre is also working to strengthen ties with Chinese universities in two

main areas the development of curricula and translation-teacher training for

Translation Studies departments in China, and in translation market studies in order to

analyse current and future trends.

The programmes that the Centre offers are designed to meet this growing need for

professionally trained translators and interpreters. Equal emphasis is placed on the

acquisition of the theoretical background of the discipline and on practical skills. The

programmes involve collaboration between the School of European Languages and

Literatures, the School of Asian Studies, the Departments of Mori Studies, Classics

and Ancient History, the Centre for Pacific Studies, and the Department of Applied

Language Studies and Linguistics.

Staff at the Centre

The Centre currently has two permanent staff members and a number of tutors. Part of

the translation courses are also taught by staff from other departments.


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Permanent staff

Associate Professor Frank Austermhl is Director of the Centre for Translation and

Interpreting Studies. His research interests include the relationship between

globalization and translation, translation technology, and political discourse. Frank has a

PhD in Applied Linguistics and Translation Studies from the University of Heidelberg,

Germany. A Fulbright fellow at the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C., and the

University of Virginia in Charlottesville, VA, in 2001 and 2002, hes currently working

a book on intertextuality and identity in US presidential discourse.

Vanessa Enrquez Rado is a senior tutor, and she teaches courses on translation

theory/methodology and translation technology at the Centre. A professional translator

of English, German and Spanish, she has an MA in Translation and Interpreting from

the Universidad Alfonso X El Sabio (Madrid), a Postgraduate Diploma in Translation

Technology from the Universitat Pompeu Fabra (Barcelona), and a Diploma of

Advanced Studies in Translation and Intercultural Studies from the Universitat Rovira i

Virgili (Tarragona). Vanessa is currently writing her PhD thesis on a holistic approachto the teaching of translation practice and translation technology.

Tutors

David Atkinson is a Masters student at the Centre, where he teaches editing and revising

and sometimes translation theory. Spanish is his second language. When not teaching or

studying, he works part-time for an Auckland agency as a translator and editor. He has a

Postgraduate Diploma in Translation Studies from the University of Auckland.

Rodney Hellyer teaches the Japanese-English translation course. He has been translating

Japanese for over ten years, and owns his own Auckland-based translation, interpreting

and tour-guiding company with his wife Makiko, translating mainly in the mechanical,industrial, business and electronics fields. He has a Graduate Diploma in Translation

Studies from the University of Auckland.

JIN Ying ()previously taught at Beijing Foreign Studies University and Shenzhen

University. At the Centre, Ms. Jin teaches postgraduate courses on theory, ethics and

techniques of interpreting as well as advanced interpreting practice between Mandarin

and English. She is also a PhD candidate in Interpreting Studies at the Centre, and her

research interests are interpreter training, translation theory and practice, and second

language acquisition.

Christof Schneider teaches the use of Computer-Aided Translation tools and

technological issues at the Centre, as well as owning his own CAT tool consulting andtraining company. He has been working in the local translation industry for over five

years, translating from English to German, and has a Graduate Diploma in Translation

Studies from the University of Auckland.

Staff from the various language departments of the university teach the language

acquisition courses and are also responsible for organising the advanced translation

practice courses.


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IT Infrastructure and Software at the Centre for

Translation and Interpreting Studies

The Centre for Translation and Interpreting Studies has access to advanced IT resources.We have all the usual: High-speed internet, a full range of current software, including

Microsoft Office, text-input options for all the commonly-used languages, web design

and statistics programmes, as well as two of the market leaders in translation memory

software Dj Vu and Trados.

This means that youll get to gain hands-on experience with the very tools that are

currently widely used within the translation industry, and that youll have the

opportunity to improve your computing skills in preparation for work as a translator, or

to sharpen them if you are already working in the field.

Answers to Some Frequently Asked Questions

How much will it cost?

There are two different types of fee structures, depending on whether you're a domestic

(Australia included) or an international student. For further information regarding

payment, due dates, additional charges, student loans, and other important information,

visit http://www.auckland.ac.nz/uoa/for/currentstudents/money/fees/fees.cfm.

To check out current exchange rates using an online currency converter, visit

www.xe.com.

What kinds of scholarships are available?

There are countless scholarships available, including travel grants for overseas study.

To find a scholarship that best suits your needs, a good place to start looking is:

http://www.auckland.ac.nz/scholarships. If you choose the Search for Scholarships

option, youll get the chance to search through scholarships by category, which will

help you to find those that apply to you. Have a look here, too:

http://www.postgrad.auckland.ac.nz/uoa/for/postgradstudents/finance/scholarships/schol

arships.cfm.

International students can look here:http://www.auckland.ac.nz/uoa/for/prospective/welcomes/internationalstudents/costs/sc

holarships/scholarships_home.cfm.

Alternatively, you can email the scholarships office at [email protected] or,

if youre an international student, write to [email protected].

How do I apply to study?

Most of your Auckland University application can be done online by entering as a

Guest using the Student Self Service, nDeva, and going through the application

procedures that follow. This begins the general application process to become a student


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at the University of Auckland. This process can also be started by going to the website

of the University of Auckland, and clicking on Apply Now.

During this process youll be asked to fill out by hand the AR30 Postgraduate Course

Selection Worksheet. This is so that your Graduate Advisor (A/P Frank Austermhl)

can approve the specific programme of study that youve selected. You may also need

to complete an AR20 Language Competency Form, depending on your qualifications

and experience concerning the languages of your choice.

Is distance learning available?

Currently, there are no translation or interpreting courses available for distance learning.

Courses taken at overseas institutions may be accredited to a University of Auckland

qualification, subject to the Universitys approval.

Can I have already studied some of my Translation degree overseas?

You may be able to complete part of your degree at the University of Auckland as aninbound study-abroad student. This involves paying University of Auckland fees.

Youll need to consult both your home university and the University of Auckland

beforehand.

What kind of coursework is involved?

Assessment for the Translation and Interpreting qualifications at Auckland is all done

internally. This means that there is no exam period at the end of the courses.

Assessment is through essays, small and mid-sized assignments, practical translation

projects, in-class tests, and group presentations. Masters-level dissertations are assessed

both internally and by an external marker.

Whats the difference between the Postgraduate Diploma and the Master of

Professional Studies in Translation?

The principle difference between the PGDip and the MProfStuds is that the latter is a

fifth-year program (for which you need a BA [Honours] or a Masters to enter), while the

PGDip is a fourth-year program, with lower entry requirements (only a BA). In terms of

the course structure, the other main difference is that for the MProfStuds you have to

write a dissertation (either 30 or 45 points).

Which languages are available?

We have Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Russian, and Spanishavailable in any given year. Greek, Latin, and Mori may be available, subject to

demand.

How many languages can I study as part of a Translation or Interpreting

qualification?

You can only take English and one other language as part of the formal study

programme, but of course those skills that youll have acquired through the study of

translation practice in your second language can be used with any third or fourth

languages that you may have.


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What time of day are classes usually held?

Mostly in the afternoons, with Translat 702 and 703 classes being between 4pm and

6pm.

What level of English do I need if English is my second language?

For translation, youll need an IELTS Academic level of 7.0, or a TOEFL Written level

of 600. For interpreting, youll need an IELTS Spoken level of 7.5.

Will my Translation degree be equivalent to NAATI accreditation for my language

pair? (NAATI is the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and

Interpreters, based in Australia)

Not yet, unless you apply for accreditation yourself. Were currently working on an

application to NAATI to have our Translation degrees made equivalent to the Translator

and Interpreter accreditation levels (formerly Level 3).

What kinds of opportunities will I have for working as a translator in New

Zealand?

This depends partly on your language combinations with English, the most popular

being Chinese, French, German, Japanese, Korean, Russian, and Spanish. Others may

be in demand less frequently.

The majority of translators work as freelancers from home or a home office, but some

may work for an organisation, a company, or a government agency before becoming

freelancers in their fields of speciality. With telecommunications technology, distance

now has relatively little influence in terms of maintaining a network of international

clients, and with the increase in trade and commerce internationally, the outlook fortranslators in New Zealand is good.

Take a look here for a little more information:

http://www.kiwicareers.govt.nz/default.aspx?id0=103&id1=J34311

What about opportunities for interpreting?

The opportunities for interpreting are growing, in similar fashion to those for translating.

As New Zealand society becomes more diverse linguistically, and as commercial,

political, and education links with other countries strengthen, so there is more demand

for trained and qualified interpreters. Many interpreters work as tour guides, in the

health and legal systems, and as community interpreters. There may also beopportunities in the diplomatic field for highly skilled interpreters.

Take a look here for a little more information:

http://www.kiwicareers.govt.nz/default.aspx?id0=103&id1=J80316

For More Information...

If you need any more information that hasnt been provided here, then feel free to

contact A/P Frank Austermhl, the Graduate Advisor of the Translation Studies

Department. He can answer any further queries that you may have. His e-mail address is

[email protected].


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Appendix 1

Basic reading

These are the basic readings covering the ideas, the theories, and the history of

Translation Studies. If you want to ease the in-semester reading load by starting to read

them now, youll find most in the University of Aucklands main library, and some in

the Short Loan library in the Kate Edger Information Commons.

Baker, Mona. 1998.Routledge Encyclopedia of Translation Studies. London: Routledge.

Bassnet, Susan. 2002 . Translation Studies. London: Routledge, third edition.

Chesterman, Andrew & Emma Wagner. 2002. Can Theory Help Translators? A

Dialogue between the Ivory Tower and the Wordface. Manchester: St Jerome.

Chesterman, Andrew. 1989.Readings in Translation Theory. Helsinki: Finn Lectura.

Fawcett, Peter. 1997. Translation and Language: Linguistic Theories Explained.

Manchester: St Jerome.

Gentzler, Edwin. 2001. Contemporary Translation Theories (Second revised edition).

Clevedon, etc.: Multilingual Matters.

Munday, Jeremy. 2001. Introducing translation studies: theories and applications.

London/New York: Routledge.

Nord, Christiane. 1997. Translating as a Purposeful Activity: Functionalist Approaches

Explained. Manchester: St Jerome.

Shuttleworth, Mark & Moira Cowie.Dictionary of Translation Studies. Manchester: St.

Jerome.

Snell-Hornby, Mary. 1995. Translation Studies: An Integrated Approach. Amsterdam:

John Benjamins.

Steiner, George. 1993. After Babel: Aspects of Language and Translation (revised

edition). London: Oxford University Press.

Venuti, Lawrence. 2000. The Translation Studies Reader. London and New York:

Routledge.

Williams, Jenny and Andrew Chesterman. 2002. The Map. A Beginner's Guide to Doing

Research in Translation Studies. Manchester: St Jerome.

Note: Bibliographical references are ordered alphabetically and not by order of

importance. Chesterman and Wagners book (2002) is an easy and interesting read to

start with, as is Munday (2001).


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Appendix 2

Sample course outlines for the MProfStuds in Translation Studies

120 points

One year full-time up to four years part time

Core elements (continued from PG Dip):

Dissertation (30 / 45 points) 10,000 / 15,000 words Translation Project (30 / 45 points) 10,000 / 15,000 words Course work (30-60 points)

Four areas of specialization (Tracks):

Localization Literary Translation Community Translation/Interpreting Translation Studies

Track 1: Localization

Option A

TRANSLAT 790 Dissertation (30) Semester 1 and 2

TRANSLAT 723 Translation Memories (15) Semester 1

TRANSLAT 727 Translation Project (45) Semester 1 and 2

TRANSLAT 724 Localization (30) Semester 2

Option B

TRANSLAT 792 Dissertation (45)TRANSLAT 727 Translation Project (45) SEM 1 and 2

TRANSLAT 724 Localization (30)

Track 2: Literary Translation

Option A


COMPLIT 705 Reading Across Cultures (15) Semester 1 (with AP Mike Hanne)


COMPLIT 703 Rethinking Literary Translation (30) Semester 2 (with AP Mike

Hanne)Plus 15 points from Cultural Studies or Translation Studies

Option B


COMPLIT 705 Reading Across Cultures (15) Semester 1 (with AP Mike Hanne)


COMPLIT 703 Rethinking Literary Translation (30) Semester 2 (with AP Mike

Hanne)


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Track 3: Community Translation/Interpreting

Option A


TRANSLAT 704 Contextual Studies (15) Semester 1

TRANSLAT 706 Interpreting Theory (15) Semester 1


Option B


TRANSLAT 605 Interpreting Practice Semester 2 (30)


Option C


TRANSLAT 704 Contextual Studies (15) Semester 1

TRANSLAT 706 Interpreting Theory (15) Semester 1

TRANSLAT 605 Interpreting Practice (30) Semester 2


Track 4: Translation Studies (Theory)

Option A



TRANSLAT 725 Research Essay (15) Semester 1 or 2

Plus 15 points from Translation Studies, Cultural Studies, Linguistics, Comparative

Literature

Option B



Plus 30 points from Translation Studies, Cultural Studies, Linguistics, Comparative

Literature

Translation Studies at Auckland University 2008

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