This course will enable you to develop the skills necessary to use your knowledge of languages to help other people communicate. You'll start by gaining a clear understanding of what interpreting is; the different interpreting techniques, settings, and delivery modes; and the differences between a career in public services interpreting and other language-related fields. You will also receive a thorough grounding in the principles of ethics and professional conduct as they apply to the interpreting field. In addition, you'll learn how to control the communication flow of an interpreting encounter to ensure that all parties are recognized and heard during the meeting.
With this solid foundation, the course prepares you for the real world by providing you with practical information to help you gain employment confidently as a public services interpreter. You will also have the option to be listed for free in an employer-searchable directory to jump-start your new career. Once you complete the course, you'll be prepared to embark upon an exciting and rewarding career. As a professional interpreter, you'll often work with immigrants in vulnerable situations, becoming their only communication bridge. You can expect to assist families as they apply for food stamps and Medicaid, help residents set up utility services in a new home, and assist refugees as they complete their applications. You'll find your assignments vary from day to day—sometimes even from hour to hour—and opportunities abound!
Requirements:
Hardware Requirements:
- This course can be taken on either a PC or Mac.
- Headphones or speakers.
Software Requirements:
- PC: Windows 8 or newer.
- Mac: OS X Snow Leopard 10.6 or later.
- Linux may also be used.
- Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
- Microsoft Office or LibreOffice (not included in enrollment).
- Adobe Acrobat Reader.
- Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.
- Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.
Other:
- Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.
Instructional Material Requirements:
The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.
Prerequisites:
Must have a high school education (or equivalent) and be bilingual.
Rocío Txabarriaga, MA is vice president of Content Development and co-founder of the Virginia Institute of Interpreting. She is responsible for course planning, development, validation, and maintenance. Ms. Txabarriaga has over 20 years of experience in language services and international business management ranging from independent consulting to senior executive positions, and business ownership. Her extensive experience spans operations, ISO-quality processes, interpreter recruiting and training, qualitative and quantitative research and analysis, as well as in-depth involvement with several language technology platforms. Ms. Txabarriaga has several degrees, including a master's degree from Monterey Institute of International Studies, has earned many certificates, and speaks five languages fluently. Ms. Txabarriaga is also a NASBITE-Certified Global Business Professional and an accomplished writer and public speaker.
Can I register for a course if I am an international student?
Yes, ed2go courses are completely online. However, keep in mind that not all certifying bodies or industry-specific certifications are recognized internationally. Please review your country's regulations prior to enrolling in courses that prepare for certification.
Does this course prepare for a certification?
You will not be certified, but you will have a Certificate of Completion. This means that you can begin working as a professional interpreter, but you cannot say that you are certified. You can say that you are a "trained" interpreter. (The situation is similar to someone who has a degree in accounting: The person could work as a bookkeeper, but is not an accountant until passing the CPA exam.) This course gives you the foundation for future specialized coursework in medical and judicial interpreting (certification exams exist in these disciplines in some countries). The difference is, this course will enable you to become a general interpreter just as soon as you complete it.
When can I start the course?
This course is open enrollment, so you can register and start the course as soon as you are ready. Access to your course can take 24-48 business hours.
How long does it take to complete this course?
This course is self-paced and open enrollment, so you can start when you want and finish at your own pace. When you register, you'll receive six (6) months to complete the course.
What if I don't have enough time to complete my course within the time frame provided?
The time allotted for course completion has been calculated based on the number of course hours. However, if you are unable to complete the course, contact your Student Advisor to help you work out a suitable completion date. Please note that an extension fee may be charged.
What kind of support will I receive?
You may be assigned with an instructor or team of industry experts for one-on-one course interaction. Your support will be available (via email) to answer any questions you may have and to provide feedback on your performance. All of our instructors are successful working professionals in the fields in which they teach. You will be assigned to an Advisor for academic support.
What happens when I complete the course?
Upon successful completion of the course, you will be awarded a Certificate of Completion.
Am I guaranteed a job?
This course will provide you with the skills you need to obtain an entry-level position in most cases. Potential students should always do research on the job market in their area before registering.
Can I get financial assistance?
This course is non-credit, so it does not qualify for federal aid, FAFSA and Pell Grant. In some states, vocational rehab or workforce development boards will pay for qualified students to take our courses. Additionally, some students may qualify for financial assistance when they enroll, if they meet certain requirements. Financing is available from select schools. Learn more about financial assistance.
How can I get more information about this course?
If you have questions that are not answered on our website, representatives are available via LIVE chat. You can also call us at 1-877-221-5151 during regular business hours to have your questions promptly answered. If you are visiting us during non-business hours, please send us a question using the "Contact Us" form.
What are the language combinations?
English plus any other language.
How much can I earn when I finish the course?
Immediately after you finish the course, you can begin accepting interpreting assignments. The average hourly rate for new interpreters is $20 per hour. Simply follow the instructions in the career module of the Professional Interpreter course and you will be on your way to accepting interpreting assignments right away.
Is there a language test?
Yes. As part of your course, you will be required to take a spoken language fluency assessment in both your "A" Language (native language) and your "B" Language (second language). These tests are included in your tuition cost and are conducted over the phone. Certified testers will have a conversation with you in your languages, designed to assess your level of fluency on a 1-5 scale. You must have a fluency level of at least 3 in that scale in both languages to pass. If you do not obtain a level 3 fluency qualification in both languages, you will not pass the course. In order to be an interpreter, you must have full verbal fluency in two (or more) languages. The final fluency assessment is offered in 88 languages. If your language is not offered, this program is still recommended as you will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to be a functioning interpreter.