How to Get Language Interpretation Certification Courses

These days, there has been a proliferation of institutes offering courses in language interpretation. However, before one takes the crucial decision of joining a particular course or college, one needs to conduct proper research and determine if the institute that you are joining provides training with a focus on the languages of your choice. So for example, if you are an interpreter from Chinese to Japanese, these two languages must form the core competencies of the college.

The interpreter also needs to determine if there is a particular industry in which he/she wants to make a career in. For example, one might choose to pursue an interpretation career solely in medical or tourism industry. If one is sure about ones specialization, then while short listing courses, it needs to be ensured that the course has an industry focus.

There are various levels of courses offered in the market. It is a great idea to opt for a Bachelors’ or Masters’ degree, with a second language. The chosen second language is usually one’s mother tongue. The interpreter can obtain a degree from any of the recognized universities in the country, after successfully passing the exams conducted. The second language undertaken by the interpreter at degree level can be treated as target language.

Since the source language is a new foreign language for the interpreter, he has to make a choice between various foreign languages like Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and French. Subsequently, he should undertake language certification course conducted by any of the recognized colleges or institutes. The duration of courses may vary from 6 months to 2 years. The internet is the best window for making oneself acquainted with various language courses.

Most students take a basic introductory course in translation or interpretation before applying for the certification course. You can usually complete the program in one or two years. Certificates are language-specific and are offered in various languages according to student demand. The admission process involves submission of written and oral (taped) work in both source and target language. Upon earning the Interpretation Certificate, one may consider taking professional certification or accreditation tests such as the state court interpreter certification exam. Institutes also offer non-credit workshops in preparation for these exams.

An interpreter can also undertake courses in sign language enabling them to undertake interpretation in sign language for deaf and blind. Social and community colleges also offer courses in sign language interpretation.

Getting professional certification in language interpretation can go a long way in ensuring a rewarding career. Interpreters are in demand in a variety of medical, legal, social-service organizations. While translators and interpreters usually work on a freelance basis, in some cases they might also be associated with an agency. Nonetheless, the investment made in one’s education in this field largely determines the growth rate and career trajectory of professionals in this domain.