Translation - Research

The Centre for Translation and Interpreting provides a vibrant environment for both disciplinary and interdisciplinary scholarship. Recognised as a centre of excellence for research into the languages, literatures, histories, linguistics, visual cultures, and cultural identities of Europe and beyond, the Centre is founded on a dynamic and forward-looking research ethos. Translation is a field of research that is expanding dynamically. We welcome innovative research proposals that interrogate – through either practice or research-led projects – translation in a variety of areas, modes, and conceptualisations, for example:



Audiovisual translation, multimodality and accessibility

Crisis translation

Philosophical aspects of translation

Translation and cultural encounter

Translation and development

Translation and language policy

Translation and semiotics

Translation and linguistics

Translation and literature

Translation and minority languages

Translation and sacred texts

Translation and space/cities/urban contexts/migration

Translation and the global/local

Translation and tourism

Translation and violent conflict

Translation ethics

Translation in digital contexts

Translation in media and geo-politics

Translation in museums and exhibition spaces

Translation in the context of education

Translation and knowledge production and dissemination

Translation and music

Translation and the archive

Entrance requirements

Graduate

A 2.1 Honours degree or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University. While a Master’s degree (or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University) is not essential, it is desirable and applicants without this qualification will be considered on a case-by-case basis.



International Students

For information on international qualification equivalents, please check the specific information for your country at https://www.qub.ac.uk/Study/international-students/your-country/



English Language Requirements

Evidence of an IELTS* score of 7.0, with not less than 6.0 in any component, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University is required (*taken within the last 2 years).



International students wishing to apply to Queen's University Belfast (and for whom English is not their first language), must be able to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study or research. Non-EEA nationals must also satisfy UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) immigration requirements for English language for visa purposes.



For more information on English Language requirements for EEA and non-EEA nationals see: www.qub.ac.uk/EnglishLanguageReqs.



If you need to improve your English language skills before you enter this degree programme, INTO Queen's University Belfast offers a range of English language courses. These intensive and flexible courses are designed to improve your English ability for admission to this degree.

How to Apply

Apply using our online Postgraduate Applications Portal and follow the step-by-step instructions on how to apply.



Find a supervisor

If you're interested in a particular project, we suggest you contact the relevant academic before you apply, to introduce yourself and ask questions.



To find a potential supervisor aligned with your area of interest, or if you are unsure of who to contact, look through the staff profiles at https://www.qub.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate-research/find-a-phd-supervisor/?school=Queen%27s%20Business%20School



You might be asked to provide a short outline of your proposal to help us identify potential supervisors.

Entry Year: Academic Year 2026/27

Career Prospects

Introduction

Now more than ever postgraduate qualifications in Translation and/or Interpreting are in high demand. Many of our graduates work immediately as free-lance professionals, some even choosing to launch their own agencies. Others have recently secured employment in higher education (e.g. in China, Jordan, Iraq, Brazil, across Europe and the UK), advertising agencies, companies – both as translators and researchers in private and public companies and institutions. Queen’s is ranked 8th in the UK for graduate prospects (Complete University Guide 2025) Queen’s is ranked 1st in the UK for Students’ Union (What Uni? Student Choice Awards 2025)