"Beyond an academic degree, I have developed my way of understanding interlinguistic and intercultural mediation."
Why did you decide to study this master's degree? My interest was both personal and professional. Although I already had a doctorate in Spanish Sign Language Interpretation (LSE), I wanted to delve deeper into the theoretical approaches and research methods of other areas of Translation and Interpreting. As a trainer of LSE interpreters at university level, I also thought that this MA would give me a broader view of translation and interpreting, which would result in better teaching and guidance to my students. And so it has been.
What has the program contributed to your training?
It has allowed me to discover approaches, methods and lines of research in Translation and Interpretation, especially in spoken languages, which were not within my expertise, and which have broadened my perspective to analyze the translation and interpretation of sign languages. Beyond an academic degree, I have developed my way of understanding interlinguistic and intercultural mediation.
What aspects would you highlight?
An essential aspect is the completely virtual design. For people like me, who are working, this MA is a great opportunity. It has a good organization and planning of the courses, a wide variety of subjects, with a team of teachers recognized internationally in this field, but, above all, very close to the students.
Why would you recommend it?
I would recommend it to anyone who wants to start or deepen their research in Translation/Language Interpretation, who is thinking of conducting a PhD or who wants to develop research practices for the scientific and professional community to take advantage of new developments. There is a lot to read and learn, but it is worth it.
What practical applications have you found?
Well, I found many applications. In the academic field, the teaching staff has made it easy for me to adapt all the exercises and debates raised to my own field. In the professional field, as a teacher and researcher, my academic writing has improved, with which I have been able to publish several articles in prestigious scientific journals. In addition, it has taken my communication skills to a higher level, because now my perspective is broader, I know more contexts and I am able to question what is assumed and find out what is really expected.
As a sign language interpreting professional, this program has provided me with theoretical frameworks that reflect and support my daily work.
Why did you decide to study this master's degree?
I am a sign language interpreter based in Valencia, specializing primarily in community interpreting. Of all the areas I work in, legal interpreting is my favorite and also the most demanding in terms of professional skill. Unfortunately, there is limited research on sign language interpreting in general, and even less so in the legal field. This is partly because the profession has only recently gained academic recognition, and there is no specialized research training available for this branch. For years, I’ve wanted to conduct research on SL interpreting in court settings, and this master's program has finally given me that opportunity. The fact that it is a virtual, part-time program allows me to balance my studies with my work.
What has it contributed to your training?
It has contributed a great deal in many ways. I graduated in Educational Sciences 20 years ago, and I had no formal theoretical knowledge of translation, interpretation, or scientific research. The learning process has been challenging—it required a great deal of focus, effort, humility, and the willingness to ask questions about unfamiliar concepts. However, it has enriched me immensely, both academically and professionally, and even on a personal level.
What aspects would you highlight?
I would highlight the variety of content available, which I found to be well-suited to my needs. Overall, I have been very satisfied with the teaching staff. There are several highly skilled and rigorous professionals who offer the flexibility to tailor the content to align with your specific research interests. Additionally, they are attentive to adapting the coursework to accommodate my unique needs as both a student and a professional.
Why would you recommend it?
I would recommend this program because the content is excellent, and the faculty has a strong background in translation, interpretation, and research. It opens up a range of opportunities in all areas of translation and interpretation, from attending conferences around the world to contributing to the field and building valuable professional networks.
What practical applications have you found? In the professional or academic field
As a sign language interpreting professional, this program has provided me with theoretical frameworks that reflect and support my daily work. It has made me more self-critical and driven me to improve my practice. Additionally, it has sparked a deeper desire to continue learning and researching within my field. The master’s program has equipped me with tools to enhance my work and share those improvements with others. In fact, I’ve been able to produce publications, with guidance from my tutors, that have been well-received in journals with rigorous quality control standards.