Literary Translation

The M.Phil. in Literary Translation at Trinity College Dublin offers a dynamic blend of practice and theory. Based at the Trinity Centre for Literary and Cultural Translation — Ireland’s leading hub for literary and cultural translation — the course gives you direct access to the industry and the chance to build lasting professional networks.



While the word “literary” may suggest novels and poetry, we take a broader view: our students work with everything from comics and songs to video games, subtitles, and speeches. In today’s world, creative forms of translation are more valued than ever-both in academia and across the cultural and creative industries.



This intensive programme helps you develop your own voice as a translator. You’ll build a personalised portfolio with the support of academic mentors, gain hands-on experience through team projects, and become confident in using the latest translation tools.



Whether your goal is a career in translation or further research, the M.Phil. in Literary Translation offers the skills, insight, and community to support your next steps.



Is This Course For Me?

If you're passionate about language, creativity, and cross-cultural communication, the M.Phil. in Literary Translation at Trinity could be the perfect fit.



Based in the heart of multicultural Dublin, Trinity offers a vibrant setting for exploring translation. Home to literary greats like Samuel Beckett and a pioneer in language teaching since 1776, Trinity combines a rich cultural heritage with a forward-looking approach.



You’ll learn from a diverse team of translation theorists and language specialists, and connect with practising translators through our Literary Translator in Residence scheme and regular events.



This course offers exceptional flexibility. You’ll shape your own programme — choosing what you translate, how you translate it, and which professional skills to prioritise. From your first seminar to your final dissertation, the focus is on your interests, your creativity, and your goals.



Course Structure

Choose the pathway that suits your goals:



M.Phil. in Literary Translation (90 ECTS) – Full-time: 1 year



Postgraduate Diploma in Literary Translation (60 ECTS) – Full-time: 1 year



Postgraduate Certificate in Literary Translation (30 ECTS) – Part-time: 1 year

Progress seamlessly from the Certificate to the Diploma and onward to the M.Phil., subject to satisfactory progress. For more information on part-time and stackable options, please watch this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U4iD1f9939Y

All students take a core set of modules that explore key aspects of translation theory, practice, and professional development:



Certificate students complete the four core modules: Theory and History of Translation, Linguistic and Textual Analysis, Aspects of the Profession, and Interlingual Technologies.



Diploma students take all of the above, plus the Literary Translation Portfolio.



M.Phil. students complete all Diploma requirements and also complete a dissertation.

In addition, students choose two option modules from a wide-ranging list that changes each year.



In their Literary Translation Portfolio, students translate 8-10 literary texts of their choice, accompanied by critical commentaries on their strategies and aims. The final component on the degree is a dissertation of 15,000-20,000 words, which can take one of two forms: a theoretical study of translation(s), or an experimental translation and reflective commentary proposing a new approach to translation.

Entry Requirements:

-A minimum 2.1 honours class degree from an Irish university or its international equivalent.

-A demonstrable working knowledge of two or more languages

-For candidates who are not native English speakers and have not completed a degree through the medium of English, a minimum IELTS score of at least 6.5 in each category or its equivalent is required

Application and next steps



We accept applications at any point between the autumn and the closing date in the summer. However, the course is popular, and applications are handled on a first-come first-served basis. So, you are strongly advised to apply early to avoid disappointment. We do our best to provide applicants with an answer within 3 weeks of receiving their full applications. Partial applications that are missing any of the materials listed below cannot be considered until they are completed.

Closing Date: 30th June 2026



For further information on Application and next steps, please visit Application Weblink above.

MPhil: 1 year full time /3 years part time;

PG Dip: 1 year full time / 2 years part time;

PG Cert: 1 year part time

Next Intake: September 2026

Careers and Employability

Trinity graduates are highly regarded in the translation world. Throughout the year, we run workshops with industry partners and provide regular opportunities to network, collaborate, and build professional connections.



There’s strong demand for skilled translators who can bring creativity and linguistic flair to their work-not only in literature, but also in international organisations, publishing, media, the public sector, and education. Our strong links with these sectors ensure that students engage with the real-world possibilities of literary translation from day one.