We have our own in-house training facilities at our office and experienced trainers who have previously worked in the field.

Diploma in Public Service Interpreting.

About the course: The DPSI is the most recognised qualification

Course outline:

The course is run on a part-time basis, taking into consideration other commitments students may have. It contains approximately 90 hours of tuition and to strengthen the delivery of the course, self-study is recommended with guidebooks and textbooks provided. Students will also be invited to work in roleplays and take part in group discussions as part of the practical side of studying for the DPSI.

Course content:

Consecutive and simultaneous interpreting, sight translation, written translation, note taking, maintaining a glossary, ethics and professional practice, the language and culture of public services.

Tuition for other language's is available to assist with the compilation of glossaries and to help consider and manage issues and potential problems they may have with that specific language.

Course Assessment:  The students are assessed on their oral and written ability. For the written part, two short translations need to be carried out from English into the other language and vice versa. For the oral part, two role plays will be conducted to test ability for simultaneous and consecutive interpreting abilities. Exams are organised by the Institute of Linguistics and are subject to strict examination conditions.

MTL is a registered Examination Centre for the Diploma in Public Services Interpreting.

Expected outcome: Students will be able to interpret fluently in their specialised public service chosen field, be familiar with terminology and structure of the public service system, produce accurate translations from English into their selected language and vice versa.

Course requirements: Fluency in English and their other language, an interest in public services and understanding of the ethos associated with this sector, students must be able to speak a language where there is a shortage in that area, be available for work, interest in self-development and clean and tidy personal presentation.

Preferable requirements:

Although not essential, candidates with previous experience in public sector interpreting and those who have already completed an introductory interpreting qualification are also welcomed onto the course.

Recruitment and selection:

Trainee interpreters who have been working for MTL and those with a previous positive track record in interpretation will take preference. Candidates will need to be assessed before going on the course, information from application forms will be taken and shortlisted candidates will be invited to our assessment centre where they will be asked to do the following:

Write a short piece in English

Write a short piece in their other language

Do a sight translation into English and their other language

Take part in a standard interview