Professional Interpreter

Overview

Professional Interpreters use their knowledge of languages to help others communicate. Often, they are the keys to communication for vulnerable immigrants and their families. If you are bilingual and want to assist others as they acclimate to life in a new country, this 100% online course will prepare you to thrive as a Professional Interpreter in either public service or other language-related opportunities.

This course will enable you to develop the skills necessary to use your knowledge of languages to help other people communicate. You’ll start by gaining a clear understanding of what interpreting is; the different interpreting techniques, settings, and delivery modes; and the differences between a career in public services interpreting and other language-related fields. You will also receive a thorough grounding in the principles of ethics and professional conduct as they apply to the interpreting field. In addition, you’ll learn how to control the communication flow of an interpreting encounter to ensure that all parties are recognized and heard during the meeting.

Job Outlook

  • The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) anticipates a 20% increase in demand for Interpreters and Translators between now and 2029. This is much faster than average growth for all jobs. The BLS attributes this strong growth to an increase in the number of non-English speaking people in the US.
  • According to PayScale.com, professional interpreters and translators earn $44,001 per year, on average. Salaries for early-career interpreters and translators range from $27-68,000, with an average of $42,082 in the first 1-4 years of their careers.

Objective

What You’ll Learn…

Upon completion of this course you will learn:

  • Become an effective communicator
  • Master listening skills
  • Learn how to transfer information in multicultural situations
  • Develop interpreting-specific skills such as short-term memory retention, shadowing, note-taking, sight-translation, consecutive interpreting, and more
  • Complete the course and be listed for free in an employer-searchable directory
  • Make a difference in the lives of people in need of communication/translation services
  • Spend time in rewarding multicultural situations
  • Gain the confidence and skills needed to kick off your career as a public services interpreter

    Outline

    COURSE INTRODUCTION
    Understand what language interpreting is and the role of an interpreter. Learn the requirements needed to become an interpreter, and the difference between a certificate, certification, and license in the field.

    BASIC CONCEPTS OF LANGUAGE INTERPRETING
    Master the fundamental concepts of interpreting. Learn about interpreting remotely, in-person, or over the phone. Review the evolution of interpreting and how interpreters exist within the public service field.

    INTERPRETING SKILLS AND TECHNIQUES
    Develop your interpreting skills by practicing active listening, cultural awareness, and memory retention.

    ETHICS AND STANDARDS
    Understand the professional code of ethics that interpreters need to abide by; you’ll cover how to accurately interpret while remaining ethical and honest.

    THE BUSINESS OF INTERPRETING
    Learn about interpreting as a business and what it takes to succeed. Understand what it means to work as a freelancer versus what it takes to work as a full-time interpreter.

    PREPARING FOR THE WORKFORCE
    Conclude the course by preparing yourself to begin searching for jobs. You’ll learn how to create an interview video, build a solid resume, and write a cover letter. Additionally, you’ll discuss different professional associations that could be beneficial for networking.

    Prerequisites and Requirements

    Must have a high school education (or equivalent) and be bilingual.

    Instructor(s)

    Rocío Txabarriaga, MA is vice president of Content Development and co-founder of the Virginia Institute of Interpreting. She is responsible for course planning, development, validation, and maintenance. Ms. Txabarriaga has over 20 years of experience in language services and international business management ranging from independent consulting to senior executive positions, and business ownership. Her extensive experience spans operations, ISO-quality processes, interpreter recruiting and training, qualitative and quantitative research and analysis, as well as in-depth involvement with several language technology platforms. Ms. Txabarriaga has several degrees, including a master’s degree from the Monterey Institute of International Studies, has earned many certificates, and speaks five languages fluently. Ms. Txabarriaga is also a NASBITE-Certified Global Business Professional and an accomplished writer and public speaker.

    FAQs

    1. What jobs are available for Professional Interpreters?
      Professional Interpreters work in schools, hospitals, courtrooms, meeting rooms, and conference centers. Some work for translation and interpretation companies, individual organizations, or private clients. Many also work remotely as independent contractors or freelancers.
    2. How long does it take to complete a program?
      When you register, you’ll receive six (6) months to complete this program.
    3. Are Professional Interpreters licensed?
      Although individual state or local governments may require their own licensure, interpreters can generally work based on their language fluency and interpretation skills. Successful completion of this course results in a Certificate of Completion, which means that you will be a “trained interpreter,” not certified in any designation, specialty or location.
    4. What is the difference between an interpreter and a translator?
      Interpreters work with spoken language, often in real-time conversations or official meetings or proceedings. They help clients understand the flow of conversation, often easing their clients’ burden of stress in difficult situations. Translators work with documents such as contracts, converting written text from one language to another.
    5. Can I get financial assistance?
      ed2go courses are non-credit courses, so they do not qualify for federal aid.  In some states, vocational rehab or workforce development boards will pay for qualified students to take our courses.  Additionally, some students may qualify for financial assistance when they enroll, if they meet certain requirements.
    6. What happens when I complete the program? 
      Upon successful completion of the program, you will be awarded a certificate of completion from the ECU Office of Continuing Professional Education.
    7. When can I start the program?
      Our programs are all open enrollment.  You can register and start the program as soon as you are ready. Please note: Once the program curriculum is accessed online or through submission of a material shipment confirmation, refunds cannot be issued.