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Interpreter/Translator

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AVG. SALARY

$44,680

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EDUCATION

Bachelor's degree

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JOB OUTLOOK

Stable

What To Learn

High School

What high school courses should you take if you're interested in this career? Get your answers from the Education and Training cluster Professional Support Services pathway.

Beyond High School

Here's a list of programs that you should consider if you're interested in this career:

Education Level

Education training and experience are required at different levels for success in different occupations.

Bachelor's degree

Interpreters and translators typically need at least a bachelor’s degree to enter the occupation. They also must be proficient in at least two languages (English and one other language), as well as in the interpretation or translation service they intend to provide.

Insider Info

Additional Information

If you have the right combination of concentration, a love for languages and nerves of steel, you might make a great translator or interpreter.

Your first step is to learn another language or languages. You can study at home or visit another country to study. Experts say living or studying abroad for a couple of years is the best way to learn a country's language and culture.

Once you have become fluent in another language, experts recommend you try interpreting or translating by volunteering. There are many nonprofit and community groups that need this kind of help.

In order to work as a translator or interpreter, you'll need some secondary education. A bachelor's degree is the most common form of training, but there are some diploma programs available.

Before gaining acceptance into a post-secondary program in translation, however, you'll need to have mastered the language you want to work with.

"What you learn during training is not the languages -- it's how to translate them," says Betty Cohen. She is the treasurer for the International Federation of Translators.

Graduate programs (these include master's and PhD programs) are also available in translation and interpretation. A graduate degree may be required for the best positions, experts say.

Translation and interpretation can be taken at many universities in the U.S. and around the world.

Extra Requirements

General certification typically is not required for interpreters and translators. However, workers may show proficiency by passing a variety of optional certification tests. For example, the American Translators Association (ATA) provides certification in many language combinations.

For additional information, visit these websites:

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