Languages and culture

Careers using languages vary widely and include translating, interpreting, teaching and working within international call centres and shared services centres. With an increasingly global marketplace, small and medium sized organisations communicate with clients internationally so a competence in a second language is an asset in a number of fields.

Translators and interpreters translate written material or oral communication from one language to another. Opportunities for graduates include work on a freelance basis, for agencies, in the translation departments of multinationals or as a staff interpreter. Staff work within translation companies, government departments and international organisations.

Entry routes

Entry routes vary considerably depending on the role. If you want to pursue a career in teaching languages, you will generally need to complete a Higher Diploma in Education or a PGCE. If you are interested in translation and interpreting, the UN employs professionals who are based mostly in New York and Geneva and recruitment is by means of competitive examinations. The EU Commission also recruits translators through open competitive examinations which are generally held every three years for each language. Traineeships exist in Luxembourg to work with the European Parliament.

• Languages and culture FAQs: everything you need to know about getting a job in languages and culture