Do You Need a Degree to be a Professional Translator?

What does it take to become a professional translator? A degree? Experience? 

I’ve been working as a translator for years, and I’m always curious about how others got into the field.

This article explores the educational requirements to start as a professional translator. The article also includes the result of a quick LinkedIn poll I ran to find out the type of education my network of translators pursued. 

What Degree Do You Need According to ISO 17100 Framework to be a Professional Translator?

The ISO 17100 framework highlights that while formal education can be valuable, substantial professional experience is equally important in establishing your credentials as a translator. 

In line with the ISO 17100 requirements there are 3 different ways to qualify as a translator:

1. Language Degree:

A formal degree focused on language studies directly demonstrates your linguistic proficiency and academic grounding in translation.

2. Non-Language Degree + 2 Years Translation Experience: 

If your degree isn’t specifically in a language field, a minimum of two years of hands-on translation work can prove your competency and practical skills.

3. No Degree, 5+ Years Translation Experience: 

For those without any formal degree, accumulating over five years of translation experience is recognized as sufficient evidence of expertise and professionalism.

How I Became a Professional Translator?

I did not have a plan to be a professional translator. In fact, I had no idea that professional translation was something one can make money from. 

Literary translation was the only type of translation that I was aware of. For me, translation seems to be a grand literary mission. It’s a mission to bring the classics of a language to another. And I would consider Gregory Rabassa to be an epitome of a literary translator.

I was an undergraduate student at that time. And was studying English language and literature in a non-English-speaking country. Among my friends, it was my pro bono duty to fix their writing. And sometimes doing some translation for different needs. None of this has any financial outcome and I was eager to earn money online.

I loved reading and always paid serious attention to my writing assignments. It was a treat to engage with the topics in a critical way. 

My strong areas were reading, writing, and researching a topic. So, I started with article writing on oDesk (now Upwork). Here is one of the early articles I wrote that you can still find online.

I was doing alright as an article writer. Then two events happened and that changed my plans. 

The first event was when one of my friends was making a documentary film on a development project for an NGO. I did the subtitles, transcriptions, translation, and voice-over scripts for that film. 

The second event was when I took a translation studies course for undergraduate studies. I learned that it gives you an extra edge as a translator if you are a better writer in the target language. It immediately hit me that my expertise has to be in translating.

The act of translating is an act of writing afresh. The source text provides the thoughts. The translator puts those thoughts into words exactly the way the writer would put them.

I “write the book as the author him- or herself would have written it if they’d spoken English.” That was the translation process of the translator of One Hundred Years of  Solitude.

Translators are writers, and it takes craftsmanship to be a better writer. If you are a better writer in your target language and you know another language well, that’s a sweet spot.

I realized that I could labor my way through writing articles in my second language. But that would not give me any advantage. So, I made the decision to switch and started with professional translation.

I never look back. I went full time in 2017, and got a job at Translators without Borders in 2019. In 2022, I went full time again deciding not to commit to any in-house role.

Did I Need a Translation Degree to Start Offering Professional Translation Services?

I did not have a translation degree but I studied language and literature, which is a related degree of course.

But I did fancy a master’s in translation. No university in my country was offering such a program. Also none of the foreign programs supported my language pair. Also the investment required for a foreign master’s degree was way too high than the expected reward. Moreover, not having a translation degree was not holding me back from anything!

Who is a Professional Translator?

Professional translators are language experts who help people understand each other by converting written text from one language to another.

They don’t just swap words—they rewrite the message so it makes sense, flows naturally, and fits the culture of the audience.

Key characteristics of a professional translator:

• Language Proficiency: Possesses native or near-native fluency in both the source and target languages, including a deep understanding of grammar, vocabulary, idioms, and cultural nuances.  
• Cultural Sensitivity: Understands the cultural context of both languages and adapts the translation accordingly to avoid misunderstandings or offense.  
• Subject Matter Expertise: Often specializes in specific fields (e.g., medical, legal, technical, literary) and possesses in-depth knowledge of the terminology and concepts within those areas.  
• Excellent Writing Skills: Produces clear, concise, and engaging writing in the target language. A good translator is a skilled writer in their target language.  
• Research and Analytical Skills: Conducts thorough research to ensure accuracy and clarity, including verifying terminology, checking facts, and consulting reference materials.  
• Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT) Tool Proficiency: Utilizes CAT tools and other technologies to enhance efficiency, consistency, and quality.  
• Professionalism and Ethics: Adheres to ethical guidelines, maintains confidentiality, meets deadlines, and communicates effectively with clients.

Career Paths of Professional Translators:

• Freelance Translators: Many translators are self-employed, managing their own businesses and working with multiple clients, often through Language Service Providers (LSPs). Direct client relationships are also possible with effective marketing and business management skills.  
• In-House Translators: Some translators are employed by organizations such as government agencies, international organizations, corporations, or translation agencies.  
• Specialized Translators: Translators can specialize in areas like:
  • Literary Translation: Translating books, poems, and other literary works.  
  • Technical Translation: Translating manuals, user guides, and other technical documents.  
  • Medical Translation: Translating medical records, research papers, and patient information.  
  • Legal Translation: Translating contracts, legal documents, and court transcripts.  
  • Audiovisual Translation: Translating subtitles and dubbing scripts for films, television shows, and video games.

What is a Translation Degree?

A translation degree is an academic qualification that equips individuals with the theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and cultural awareness necessary to become professional translators.

These degrees are offered by universities and institutions worldwide, typically at the bachelor’s and master’s levels. While diplomas and certificates in translation are also available, they often focus on specific skills or areas of expertise rather than providing a comprehensive education in translation theory and practice.

Types of Translation Degrees and Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Translation: A bachelor’s degree in translation (typically a 3-4 year program) provides a broad foundation in translation theory, methodology, language proficiency, and cultural studies. Students develop practical translation skills across various domains and learn about the social, cultural, and political factors that influence translation.  
• Master’s Degree in Translation: A master’s degree in translation (typically a 1-2 year program) builds upon the foundation laid by a bachelor’s degree, delving deeper into advanced translation theories, specialized translation skills (e.g., literary, technical, legal), research methodologies, and professional development. Master’s programs often allow students to specialize in a particular area of translation.  
• Diplomas and Certificates in Translation: These qualifications focus on specific translation skills or areas of expertise. They may be offered by universities, professional associations (like the ATA), or specialized training centers. Diplomas and certificates can be valuable for individuals seeking to enhance their existing translation skills or specialize in a particular domain.  
• Non-Translation Degrees as Equivalents: As you mentioned, sometimes a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a related field, such as linguistics, modern languages, or a specific subject area (e.g., law, medicine, engineering), can be considered equivalent to a translation degree, particularly when combined with relevant translation experience or certifications. This is because these degrees provide a strong foundation in language, culture, and critical thinking, which are essential for translation.

What to Expect from a University Degree in Translation:

A university degree in translation, whether at the bachelor’s or master’s level, offers a comprehensive and rigorous education, including:

• Theoretical Foundations: Students learn about various translation theories, models, and approaches, understanding the complexities of the translation process.
• Practical Translation Skills: Extensive hands-on training in translating texts across a range of genres and domains, developing proficiency in source and target languages.
• Language Enhancement: Programs aim to improve students’ language proficiency in their working languages, focusing on grammar, vocabulary, style, and cultural nuances.
• Intercultural Competence: Developing a deep understanding of different cultures and their impact on communication and translation.
• Specialized Knowledge: Opportunities to specialize in specific areas of translation, such as literary, technical, legal, medical, or audiovisual translation.  
• Research and Analytical Skills: Learning how to conduct research, analyze texts, and critically evaluate translations.  
• Technology Proficiency: Training in the use of Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT) tools and other relevant technologies.  
• Professional Ethics and Practices: Understanding the ethical guidelines and professional standards of the translation industry.

Benefits of a Translation Degree:

• Enhanced Employability: A formal qualification can make graduates more competitive in the job market, particularly for positions with agencies, institutions, or large companies.  
• Improved Skills and Knowledge: A structured education provides a solid foundation in translation theory, practice, and professional ethics.  
• Career Advancement: A master’s degree can open doors to more advanced roles, such as specialized translator, editor, project manager, or language consultant.
• Professional Recognition: A degree demonstrates a commitment to the profession and can enhance credibility with clients and employers.

Professional Translators: Degree or No Degree?

Do most professional translators have some sort of formal education? Or are they self-taught? There is a lack of precise, comprehensive statistics on the proportion of professional translators with degrees versus those who are self-taught.

I ran a LinkedIn poll among my connections in 2024. While I share the result here, please bear in mind that this sample size is relatively small and the result is not fully representative of the entire population of professional translators.

• Dominance of Translation Degrees: A significant majority (73%) of respondents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher in translation or related fields. This strongly suggests that formal education in translation is highly valued and prevalent within the profession.
• Non-Translation Degrees Still Relevant: While not as common, 13% of respondents have a bachelor’s degree or higher in a field other than translation. This indicates that individuals with backgrounds in other disciplines can successfully transition into translation, likely by leveraging their language skills and acquiring translation expertise through other means (experience, self-study, etc.).
• Lack of Diploma/Certification Response: The fact that no one selected “Translation diploma/certification” is interesting. It could suggest that:
  • LinkedIn Connection Bias: Your network might be more inclined towards higher education.
  • Regional Differences: Diploma/certification programs might be more or less common or valued in different regions.
  • Perception of Value: Respondents might not consider diplomas/certifications as “degrees” in the context of the poll.
• Self-Taught Minority: The 13% who indicated “No degree” shows that it’s still possible to become a professional translator without formal higher education. This likely reflects the importance of inherent language skills, practical experience, and continuous learning in the field.

From this data, we can also draw some assumption that:

• Formal Education Gives Advantage: The data suggests that a formal degree in translation can provide a significant advantage in the job market.
• Alternative Paths Exist: While a degree is beneficial, it’s not the only path to becoming a translator. Individuals with strong language skills and relevant expertise can enter the field through other routes.
• Continued Learning is Key: Regardless of educational background, continuous learning and professional development are essential for staying competitive in the rapidly evolving translation industry.

Do You Need a Degree to be a Professional Translator?

The value and necessity of a formal degree in translation can vary significantly depending on geographic location and the specific language pairs involved. The translation landscape isn’t monolithic; it’s a diverse ecosystem influenced by market demand, cultural factors, and historical context.

Regional Differences Requiring Translation Degrees:

• Europe: The European translation market, particularly for major language combinations, is often highly competitive. Formal qualifications, including Master’s degrees in Translation or related fields, are frequently preferred, and sometimes even required, for securing positions with agencies, institutions, or large multinational companies. This reflects a strong emphasis on professionalization and standardization within the European translation industry.
• North America: While degrees are valued in North America, particularly for specialized fields like legal or medical translation, practical experience and certifications (like the ATA certification) can also carry significant weight. The market may be slightly more open to self-taught translators with demonstrable expertise.
• Asia: The demand for translation services in Asia is rapidly growing, driven by globalization and economic expansion. While formal qualifications are increasingly valued, particularly in countries like Japan or South Korea, the market may also offer opportunities for translators with strong language skills and subject-matter expertise, even without a formal degree. Cultural factors and specific industry needs often play a substantial role.  
• Other Regions: In developing countries or regions with emerging language industries, the emphasis on formal degrees might be less pronounced due to limited access to higher education or a greater need for translators in less common language pairs. However, as these markets mature, the trend toward formal qualifications is likely to increase.

Language Pair Dynamics in Requiring Translation Degrees:

• High-Demand Language Pairs: For commonly requested language pairs (e.g., English-Spanish, English-French, English-German), the competition is often fierce. A formal degree can provide a significant advantage in such saturated markets, helping translators stand out from the crowd.
• Less Common Language Pairs: For less common or “exotic” language pairs, the demand might exceed the supply of qualified translators. In these cases, strong language skills and subject-matter expertise, even without a formal degree, can open doors to opportunities. However, translators working with less common languages still benefit from ongoing professional development and specialization to ensure quality and consistency.

Steps To Take Starting Out As A Translator:

• Research Your Target Market: Before embarking on a career in translation, research the specific requirements and expectations of the market you intend to serve. Consider the region, language pairs, and industry you plan to target.
• Tailor Your Education and Training: Choose educational pathways and professional development activities that align with the demands of your target market.
• Highlight Your Unique Skills: Whether you have a degree or are self-taught, emphasize your specific strengths and expertise to differentiate yourself in the marketplace.

What Are the Relevant Degrees in Translation Career?

While a dedicated Translation Studies degree is the most direct path, several other academic backgrounds can provide a solid foundation for a successful translation career. The ideal degree will depend on your specific interests, career goals, and the type of translation you wish to pursue.

Directly Relevant Degrees:

• Translation Studies: These programs (BA, MA) offer comprehensive training in translation theory, methodology, practical skills (often specializing in areas like literary, technical, or legal translation), language proficiency, and cultural awareness. They often include coursework in linguistics, terminology management, and translation technology. A Master’s in Translation often allows for specialization and in-depth research.  
• Interpreting: If your interest lies in oral translation, a degree in Interpreting (often a Master’s) is essential. These programs focus on the specific skills and techniques needed for simultaneous and consecutive interpreting in various settings.  

Highly Relevant Degrees:

• Linguistics: A strong understanding of language structure, meaning, and use is fundamental to translation. Linguistics degrees (BA, MA) provide the analytical tools to understand how language works, which is crucial for accurate and nuanced translation. They cover areas like phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, and pragmatics.  
• Modern Languages: Fluency in your working languages is a prerequisite for translation. A degree in a specific language (e.g., Spanish, French, Mandarin Chinese, Bengali) enhances your language proficiency, cultural understanding, and knowledge of literature and history, all of which are highly beneficial. Consider combining a language degree with translation-specific training.  
• Applied Linguistics: This field focuses on the practical application of linguistic principles, which can include areas like translation, language teaching, and lexicography. A Master’s in Applied Linguistics can provide a strong theoretical background relevant to translation practice.  

Other Relevant Degrees (Especially for Specialization):

• Subject-Specific Degrees: If you plan to specialize in a particular field of translation (e.g., medical, legal, financial, engineering), a degree in that subject matter can be extremely valuable. It provides the necessary background knowledge and terminology. For example, a science degree would be ideal for someone wanting to translate scientific or technical documents.  
• Humanities and Social Sciences: Degrees in fields like history, literature, philosophy, sociology, anthropology, or political science can broaden your cultural awareness, critical thinking skills, and understanding of diverse perspectives, all of which are beneficial for translators.

Alternative Educational Pathways For Freelance Translators

While a formal degree in translation can provide a strong foundation, it’s essential to recognize that alternative educational pathways are increasingly valuable in today’s dynamic translation landscape. The rise of online learning platforms, specialized workshops, and readily accessible self-study resources has democratized access to translation education, offering flexible and affordable options for aspiring and practicing translators alike.

Non-Degree Options: Expanding Your Skillset

• Online Courses: Platforms like Coursera, edX, Udemy, and FutureLearn offer a plethora of courses on translation, linguistics, CAT tools, and related subjects. These courses, often taught by industry experts, provide structured learning experiences and can be a great way to acquire specific skills or deepen your knowledge in a particular area.
• Specialized Workshops and Training Programs: Many professional translation associations, language schools, and training centers offer workshops and intensive programs focused on specific translation skills (e.g., legal translation, medical translation, subtitling), CAT tool proficiency, or industry-specific knowledge. These targeted programs can be highly valuable for career advancement or specialization.
• Certification Courses: While your poll didn’t show responses in this category, certifications, like the ATA certification in the US, or similar certifications offered by other organizations, can validate your skills and demonstrate your commitment to professional standards.
• Bootcamps: Intensive translation bootcamps are emerging as a fast-track way to gain practical translation skills. These programs often focus on hands-on training and real-world projects, preparing graduates for entry-level positions.

Self-Directed Learning: Taking Charge of Your Development

The digital age has empowered translators to take control of their professional development through self-directed learning.

• Open Educational Resources (OER): A wealth of free educational materials, including textbooks, articles, videos, and tutorials, is available online. These OER can be used to supplement formal education or to learn new skills independently.
• Online Communities and Forums: Engaging with other translators in online communities and forums (e.g., LinkedIn groups, proz.com) can provide valuable insights, support, and learning opportunities. Sharing experiences, asking questions, and participating in discussions can enhance your understanding of the profession.
• Podcasts and Webinars: Listening to podcasts and attending webinars on translation-related topics can expose you to new ideas, trends, and best practices. These resources often feature interviews with industry leaders and experts.
• Reading and Research: Staying up-to-date with industry publications, research articles, and books on translation theory and practice is essential for continuous learning.
• CAT Tool Tutorials and Resources: Most CAT tool developers offer extensive tutorials, documentation, and online resources to help translators master their software.

Suggestions for Freelance Translators

Whether you’re just starting out, seeking to advance your career, or simply looking to stay competitive, continuous growth and development are essential in the dynamic field of translation. Here’s a roadmap with actionable steps tailored to different stages:

For Aspiring Translators (Still in School or Recent Graduates):

• Formalize Your Education: If you’re considering a career in translation, prioritize a degree in Translation Studies, Linguistics, or a related field. Even a minor or specialization in translation can provide a valuable edge.
• Develop Language Mastery: Focus on achieving near-native fluency in your target languages. Immerse yourself in the language and culture through study abroad programs, language exchange partners, or consuming native media.
• Gain Practical Experience: Seek internships, volunteer translation opportunities, or freelance projects to build your portfolio and gain real-world experience. Even translating for friends or family can be a starting point.
• Specialize Early (If Possible): Identify your areas of interest (e.g., medical, legal, technical) and begin building your knowledge base in those fields. This will make you more marketable later.
• Network and Connect: Join student translation associations, attend industry events, and connect with professional translators on LinkedIn. Networking can open doors to mentorship and job opportunities.

For Early-Career Translators (1-5 Years of Experience):

• Professional Certification: Consider pursuing certifications like the ATA certification (American Translators Association) or similar credentials in your region. Certification demonstrates your competence and can enhance your credibility.
• Join Professional Associations: Become a member of organizations like the ATA, the Institute of Translation and Interpreting (ITI), or other relevant associations. These groups offer networking opportunities, professional development resources, and access to job boards.
• Build Your Specialization: Focus on developing expertise in a specific niche. This could involve taking specialized courses, attending workshops, or seeking mentorship from experienced translators in your chosen field.
• Invest in CAT Tools: Familiarize yourself with Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT) tools like Trados Studio or memoQ. These tools are widely used in the industry and can significantly improve your efficiency and consistency.
• Market Yourself Effectively: Create a professional website or online profile showcasing your skills and experience. Network actively and seek out opportunities to promote your services.

For Experienced Translators (5+ Years):

• Stay Updated with Technology: Keep abreast of the latest advancements in translation technology, including AI-powered tools and machine translation. Embrace lifelong learning to remain competitive.
• Expand Your Skill Set: Consider acquiring new language pairs, specializing in additional fields, or developing expertise in related areas like localization or transcreation.
• Mentorship and Giving Back: Share your expertise by mentoring aspiring translators or volunteering your skills to worthy causes.
• Continuous Professional Development: Attend conferences, workshops, and webinars to stay up-to-date with industry best practices and trends.
• Build Your Reputation: Focus on delivering high-quality work and building strong client relationships. Positive referrals and testimonials are invaluable for long-term success.

General Advice for All Translators:

• Lifelong Learning: The translation field is constantly evolving. Embrace continuous learning and professional development to stay relevant and competitive.
• Networking is Key: Build and maintain a strong professional network. Connections can lead to job opportunities, collaborations, and valuable insights.
• Value Your Expertise: Know your worth and price your services accordingly. Don’t undervalue your skills and experience.
• Embrace Technology: Leverage technology to improve your efficiency, productivity, and quality.
• Stay Passionate: A genuine passion for language and culture is essential for a fulfilling and successful career in translation.