Master's Degree Social Sciences & Psychology Full Time

Master of Translating and Interpreting

at RMIT University · Melbourne, Victoria

CRICOS course code

079083F

CRICOS provider code

00122A

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

2 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$80,640 total

Per year

A$40,320/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Master of Translating and Interpreting at RMIT University focuses on developing the practical and theoretical skills needed to work as a professional translator and interpreter. Based in Melbourne, this course combines classroom learning with hands-on practice, often using scenarios relevant to healthcare, legal settings, community services, and business. You'll study the established techniques in translation and interpreting, gain insight into language service provision in the Australian context, and examine ethical and cross-cultural issues that practitioners face.

This two-year master's degree is structured around semesters, with students undertaking a series of core and elective units of study. Each unit is worth a set number of credit points, contributing to the total required for graduation. The coursework may include simulated and live interpreting exercises, translation projects, and theory-based classes. In many cases, there is a capstone component such as a major project or research thesis in translation or interpreting-related topics. Practical experience is a significant part of the qualification, often involving work-integrated learning placements with language service providers and community organisations.

Alongside practical language skills, you'll develop abilities in critical analysis, research, and the use of translation/interpreting technology. The course suits bilinguals seeking to enter or advance in the language services industry, as well as those pursuing careers in cross-cultural communication. Applicants will need to demonstrate proficiency in English along with at least one other language, and meet RMIT's English entry standards, such as IELTS or recognised equivalents.

As a student in Australia, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during teaching periods, and the graduate visa (subclass 485) may provide an option for post-study work experience. It's important to confirm work rights, specific unit offerings, and recognised language pairs on RMIT's official course page.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Professional translator or interpreter in government agencies
Language services roles in migration, health, legal, or social sectors
Community liaison roles for multicultural organisations
Consultant or project manager in translation/interpreting firms
Policy, research, or communication roles in international business
Employment in Australian public service, international organisations, and private industry

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Translating and Interpreting at RMIT University?

It typically takes 2 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$80,640 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Professional translator or interpreter in government agenciesLanguage services roles in migration, health, legal, or social sectorsCommunity liaison roles for multicultural organisationsConsultant or project manager in translation/interpreting firmsPolicy, research, or communicat...

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