Translation Studies (MA)
Master of Arts
Program overview
As the world grows smaller, translators play an increasingly important role in facilitating connections between individuals and cultures.
Using a multidisciplinary lens, you’ll develop a deep understanding of the function and meaning of translation in the context of globalization and cultural diversity.
You’ll translate either from English to French, or from French to English. Choose from two options:
- Course-based (professional): focus on developing the competencies you need to work as a professional translator in Canada’s two official languages.
- Research-based: your thesis will look at the theory behind or history of a body of translated texts, or it may take the form of a literary translation, accompanied by critical analysis.
You’ll have the option of completing an internship during your program, drawing on the department’s close ties to the translation industry in Quebec and beyond.
Our students benefit from a supportive learning environment, thanks to small class sizes and faculty members committed to individualized mentoring.
Montreal, the largest French-speaking city after Paris, offers an incredibly stimulating climate for studying translation.
Program details
Choose from two options:
- (Option A) Course-based (professional): focus on developing the competencies you need to work as a professional translator in Canada’s two official languages. No thesis requirement. The professional option program is accredited by the Ordre des traducteurs, terminologues et interprètes agréés du Québec (OTTIAQ), meaning you’ll graduate with a valuable credential and a bright professional future. You’ll also be well-placed to continue your studies at the doctoral level.
- (Option B) Research-based: your thesis will look at the theory behind or history of a body of translated texts, or it may take the form of a literary translation, accompanied by critical analysis. You’ll work with French, plus English or another language.
Your complete application for the professional option (Option A) will include a statement of purpose outlining your educational background and experience, as well as your goals in the program.
Students applying for the research-based option (Option B) may be required to write an entry examination designed to assess their language competency and cultural knowledge.
Your completed application will include:
- Application form and Fee
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Three Letters of Reference and assessment form
- Statement of Purpose, no longer than 2 pages, outlining your educational background and experience, as well as your goals in the program, written in English or in French, depending of the option you will follow (Professional - Option A only)
- Transcripts for all post-secondary institutions attended
- Proof of Canadian citizenship (if applicable).
Please apply online. Read the how-to guide for application procedures.
We’re committed to providing students the support they need to focus on their studies. Top students benefit from numerous scholarships, ranging from $500 to $7,000 per award. We also offer research assistantships.
Your supervisors will be chosen from amongst leading researchers. Speak to the graduate program director to discuss your options.
The Département d’études françaises is unique in bringing together three sectors of language study: language, literature and translation. This distinctive combination gives the department its flexibility and originality, and has led to recognition for its innovative, multidisciplinary approach to research. Aware of the extensive knowledge shifts, overlappings, and flows in the contemporary world, professors in the department attach great importance to collaboration, the sharing of ideas, and fresh approaches.
In the last three years, two of our students have obtained residencies at the Banff International Literary Translation Centre. Read the account by Nicolas Coutlée.
The Master’s program opens up numerous career opportunities in Canada and beyond.
- Teaching and academic research
- Translation, the language industry
- Editing, proofreading, revising
- Professional writing
- International and public relations
- Information and communications: the media, the audiovisual sector, documentation and records management, social media and Internet
- Public administration, international organizations, NGOs
