Graduate Certificate in Literary Translation
In the face of an increasingly global marketplace, translation as both an art and a technical practice is becoming significantly more important in the publication, dissemination, and appreciation of international cultures. In literary fields, translators need to be aware not only of how to render a source text into another language, but to be able to do so while respecting the style and tone of the original work and the cultural references contained therein. Consequently, literary translators must have superior writing skills in English. To work most effectively as a translator of literature, it is equally important to have an understanding of the practical side of the business of literary translation and publication.
The Graduate Certificate Program in Literary Translation at the University of Rochester has been designed as an introduction to both the practice and the profession of literary translation. It is considered an entry-level professional credential that will complement a number of bachelors and graduate degrees in the liberal arts. It is equally suited for new translators who need grounding in the disciplines that constitute literary translation, as well as seasoned translators who seek a practical introduction to the business of the field. The Certificate Program enables students to experience the full process leading to the publication of a work in translation— from evaluating a text, acquiring rights, and editing the translation, to designing the cover and launching a promotional campaign for an international author. The Certificate program begins with a required course introducing students to the theory and practice of translation, includes a practical component in the form of a portfolio of independent translation projects, and features an internship at a press specializing in literary translation. The Certificate program is based on translation into English.
The Graduate Certificate in Literary Translation can be earned either as a standalone post-baccalaureate endeavor or in combination with a University of Rochester graduate degree (a Master’s or doctoral degree in literature, for example). It is offered as an alternative to a new Master’s degree in literary translation that is designed for people who need a more rigorous academic foundation in the field and who wish to produce a translation of a complete work.