Clearing entry requirements
If joining us in September 2026 through Clearing, please see the entry requirements below.
Entry requirements
Year 1 Clearing entry requirements (2026/27)
- A-Levels CCC. Must include C in one of chosen languages.
- International Baccalaureate 26 points. Must include Higher L5 in one of chosen languages.
- BTEC Extended Diploma MMM. Must include qualification in relevant languages.
Year 2 Clearing entry requirements (2026/27)
- A-Levels BBC. Must include B in both languages.
- International Baccalaureate 28 points. Must include Higher L6 in both languages.
- BTEC Extended Diploma DMM. Must include qualification in both languages.
Please check that you meet our University-wide National 5/GCSE (or equivalent) English and Maths requirements.
Key information
Our MA (Hons) Modern Languages (Interpreting and Translating) programme allows you to study French and Spanish to degree level, with a focus on applied modern languages for professional use. Ranked 2nd in Scotland for Languages (National Student Survey 2025), you’ll develop advanced interpreting skills and spend a year abroad on placements with two of our partner universities, immersing yourself in your languages and their cultures.
Find out more about our 3 year honours degree option.
- UCAS code
- RR12/RR14/RR24/RLCF/RLCG/RLCS
- 2026 Clearing entry requirements
- CCC
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Delivery type
- Full Time
- Degree qualification
- MA
- Mode of delivery
- On-Campus
- Duration
- 3-4 years
- Location
- Edinburgh
- Start date
- September
The MA (Hons) Modern Languages (Interpreting and Translating) prepares you for careers that require professional language, communication and intercultural skills.
You’ll develop proficiency in French and Spanish alongside specialist training in interpreting and translation, with a strong focus on real‑world application. You’ll explore how interpreting approaches vary across professional contexts, including healthcare, business, legal settings and conferences.
Intensive language support is available in year one where needed, helping ensure you can progress confidently in French and Spanish to your second year. In later years, you’ll progress to simultaneous interpreting and advanced translation practice and develop a dissertation project on a topic related to languages, interpreting and translation, allowing you to gain expertise in an area of your interest.
Your third year is spent studying abroad, deepening your linguistic and cultural understanding and with the opportunity to choose from institutions with strong interpreting and translation programmes. By the end of the programme, you’ll graduate with proficiency in French and Spanish, a strong understanding of the global cultural contexts in which they are used, and professional skills in interpreting and translation, alongside transferable skills in advanced digital literacy, communication and research.
All of this means that as a graduate you will be highly sought-after for language-based careers and roles within international environments.
Your student experience
You’ll be taught by experienced academics and practising language professionals with expertise in French and Spanish, interpreting, translation and applied language studies.
Teaching on the programme is informed by staff who have worked in professional interpreting and translation contexts, bringing practical insight into how language skills are used in real-world settings. This ensures your learning is at the cutting edge of professional practice, as well as informed by current academic research.
The programme draws on Heriot-Watt’s international reputation in applied languages, with a focus on communication, intercultural competence and professional language use. Technical aspects of interpreting and translation are embedded throughout your studies, helping you develop the skills and understanding needed for modern language-based careers.
Go Global
Go Global is our student mobility programme, allowing you to seamlessly transfer your studies to one of our global campuses, or to a partner university. Live and learn in a new country, experience different cultures and build a global perspective, while continuing your degree without interruption.
European Exchange
Worldwide Exchange
Course content
September Intake - Edinburgh
Disclaimer
The courses mentioned above may change between now and the time that you study. For more information, please view our Terms and Conditions.
Programme Video
How to watch this YouTube video
We couldn't detect your cookie choices so can't show this video here. You can watch on YouTube below.
Student testimonials
Studying in LINCS has been a fantastic experience. The programme offers relevant and engaging classes on current global issues, supportive and knowledgeable staff, and a welcoming department with regular events. My time studying abroad in France and Spain was especially valuable, helping me develop real confidence using my languages. I would highly recommend it!
Teaching staff
Academic testimonial
Our MA (Hons) Modern Languages (Interpreting and Translating) is widely recognised for the quality of the linguists it develops: our graduates have strong liaison, consecutive and simultaneous interpreting skills, all backed by the in-depth intercultural knowledge and experience that allow them to use their languages across a broad range of international and professional contexts.
Fees and funding
| Status | Fee |
|---|---|
| Scotland | Paid by SAAS |
| England / Wales / N Ireland / Rep of Ireland | £9,790 |
| International | £20,080 |
- Status: Your residency status is usually defined as the country where you have been ordinarily resident for the three years before the start of your course.
- International: 'International' includes applicants from European Union countries who do not hold Pre-Settled or Settled status in UK. (This does not include students from the Republic of Ireland - see above).
Entry requirements
If joining us in September 2027, please see the entry requirements below. Heriot-Watt offers different entry requirements, depending on your background.
Standard entry requirements
- Highers BBBB
- A-Levels BBC (B in main language)
- Int. Baccalaureate 30 points (HL 5 in main language)
- BTEC DDM
- HNC B in graded unit
- HND BB
Minimum entry requirements*
- Highers BBBC (B required for at least one language to be studied)
- A-Levels BCC (B in main Language)
* Minimum: under our Fair Access Policy, we will relax our standard entry requirements for some Scottish students depending on their circumstances. Our minimum requirements will apply if you:
- live in an area within the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation lowest 20% (SIMD20), or
- are care experienced.
We can also make exceptions for some Scottish students with grades above minimum but below standard. Read more about our Minimum and standard entry requirements
Why Heriot-Watt
We have been producing career-ready graduates since 1821. With our roots as the world’s first Mechanics Institute, Heriot-Watt is a pioneering university with a global reach.
At Heriot-Watt, learning goes beyond the lecture theatre. We tackle real world challenges through extraordinary research – from climate change to protecting our oceans, to advancing life-saving medical breakthroughs and shaping the next generation of AI. We are also committed to developing forward-thinking design and sustainable business practices that impact industries worldwide. On our campuses you’ll find some of the world’s most advanced facilities, while our strong industry links set you up for career success. This is why almost 90% of our graduates are in employment or further education (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2024).
Employability
Work and study
Salary
Potential career paths
- Artistic, literary and media occupations
- Business and public service associate professionals
- Teaching Professionals
Student life
Explore facilities, and chat to staff and students
Discover Uni course data
Discover Uni provides data on each university's degree courses across a range of measures including student satisfaction, graduate jobs and salaries.