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I would say it is definitely preferable to have a degree in languages or cultural studies or both, since translation does not only require easiness in the spoken or written languages under concern but furthermore, it is absolutely required a mastery of the language and a deep knowledge of the cultures and the main cosmogony of the language we translate a text or a speech into. Besides a degree in languages or related subjects, that already promotes a translator as an individual with a deep acquaintance of his work, a passion, sensitivity and respect are highly recommended to perform such job at its best.
I would say the best translators I have met so far do not have degrees in translation. And at the same time, being good in certain languages only is not enough to become a translator! Translation profession is an art and a craft - that requires an array of different and various traits and skills, in addition to a controlled manipulation in both the source and target languages.
I would say a language degree is preferable over a translation degree. Having a translation degree does not necessarily mean you can translate well. Translation requires excellent language skills with the ability to shape and reconstruct the text in the best possible way. Reading and writing skills are the main points for me that a translator needs to be good at. Being good at certain languages is different from being able to write well. Translation is a skill that can be developed with continuous practice and reading.
a degree never guarantees a good translator, however, it may equip its holder with certain techniques and skills that adds more accuracy to his translation , in my case i translate to and from french without having any degree in translation or in french language, but having grown with the language gives me a deeper understanding of its structure and allows me to provide a far better translation than that delivered by my Asian colleagues.
it's not necessary to have a degree in translation.But you have to be able to master both languages .
What employers prefer is a combination of the language degree with a minimum amount of experience. However, I believe that if you get a certified test for the language, as well as a list of accomplishment in the translation field for that language, you can empress the employers.
Good luck!
I have A degree in Translation. I also have an experience in working as a translator
There should be language skills as well as talent. with both, there will be no need to certificates of courses as developing skills and following the track your talent draws will bring about experience.
a degree in translation is very important as translation is not replacing word with word in two languages but it is more complicated and requires some techniques and methods that can be learned only through practice and studying theories of the translation process and types of translation.
This depends on the level of translation expertise required. For example, a professional translation service firm or very industry specific secors e.g. legal or scientific, may be best served with candidates holding a degree. A company requiring language translation in daily business may be well served by native language or fluent multilingual candidates who also have a broader work experience.
