English Translation and Interpreting
The English Translation and Interpreting undergraduate program at İstanbul University offers comprehensive training in translation and interpretation between English and Turkish (and optionally additional languages). Designed for students aiming to become skilled translators and interpreters, the program combines theoretical courses in translation studies with practical training in written and spoken translation, preparing graduates to meet both national and international communication needs. The program is structured across eight semesters and taught in English.
Located in Istanbul — a city with rich cultural, linguistic, and historical diversity — this program emphasizes both linguistic proficiency and cross-cultural competence. With a curriculum that integrates translation theories, language studies, and practical translation/interpretation work, students develop advanced skills in text analysis, translation techniques, and intercultural communication. This makes the program attractive for those who wish to build a career in translation, interpretation, publishing, international relations or media.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Bachelor (B.A.) in Translation and Interpreting
- Standard period of study: 4 years (8 semesters)
- Location: Istanbul
- Study Type: Undergraduate (full-time, bilingual/English-Turkish)
- Admission semester: Fall semester
- Area of study: Translation Studies, Interpreting, Linguistics, Cultural & Language Studies
- Admission modus: National university entrance exam (foreign language track)
- Main language(s): English, Turkish (+ optional additional foreign language)
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Language & Translation Basics
- Translation-oriented Text Analysis I
- English Language Skill I
- Comparative Language Studies I
- Written Language Skills I
- Cultural Studies & Turkish Language I
Semester 2 – Continued Language Development & Intro to Translation Theory
- Contemporary English Writing & Literature / Language Enrichment
- Translation-oriented Text Analysis II
- English Language Skill II
- Comparative Language Studies II
- Written Language Skills II
- Cultural & Country Studies
Semester 3 – Introduction to Translation & Interpreting Practice
- Introduction to Translation Studies
- Written Translation Skills I
- Spoken Language (Listening/Speaking) & Interpretation Skill I
- Second Foreign Language (optional)
- Media & Communication Texts and Culture Studies
Semester 4 – Translation Theory & Applied Practice
- Translation Field Studies / Domain-specific Translation I
- Written Translation Skills II
- Interpreting Skills I (Consecutive / Simultaneous)
- Elective Language or Culture Courses
- Professional Ethics and Translation Studies Fundamentals
Semester 5 – Advanced Written & Spoken Translation
- Specialized Translation (Literary, Technical, Media etc.)
- Advanced Interpretation & Oral Translation
- Translation Technology & Tools
- Comparative Linguistics / Discourse Analysis
- Electives (elective language, culture, media, etc.)
Semester 6 – Professional Translation & Interpretation Techniques
- Literary and Academic Translation
- Simultaneous Interpretation I
- Translation Project & Research Methods
- Electives / Optional Language Courses
- Cultural and Intercultural Communication Studies
Semester 7 – Specialization & Practicum
- Simultaneous Interpretation II
- Translation for Specialized Fields (law, economy, media, etc.)
- Translation Workshop / Practical Translation Projects
- Elective courses (interdisciplinary or additional language)
- Internship or field study (if applicable)
Semester 8 – Capstone & Graduation
- Final Translation/Interpretation Project or Thesis
- Professional Portfolio & Career Preparation
- Elective courses or specialization electives
- Advanced Interpreting / Translation Workshop
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for roles such as translator, interpreter, editor, localization specialist, media–communication professional, literary translator, or freelance language services provider. They may work in publishing houses, news/media organizations, translation agencies, international firms, governmental institutions, or as academic researchers.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing the English Translation and Interpreting program at İstanbul University means entering a long-established department dedicated to training competent, culturally aware translators and interpreters. The curriculum combines theoretical grounding with extensive practical training in both written and oral translation — equipping students with the skills needed in a globalized world where multilingual communication is key.
The program’s flexibility — including elective languages, optional fields of specialization, and opportunities for double-major or minor with related departments — provides students with a broad academic foundation and the ability to tailor their education. Graduates leave ready to work across diverse contexts: literature, media, international business, diplomacy, education or freelance translation work.
Contact Information
Istanbul University – Department of English Translation and Interpreting
Faculty of Letters, Istanbul University
Beyazıt / Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 212 440 00 00
Email: translation@istanbul.edu.tr
Faculty of Letters – Student Affairs Office
Beyazıt, Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 212 440 00 00
Email: edebiyat@istanbul.edu.tr
International Office – Istanbul University
Beyazıt Campus, Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 212 440 00 00
Email: international@istanbul.edu.tr
