COURSE CURRICULUM

The M.Phil. in Literary Translation at Trinity College Dublin is a one-year full-time postgraduate program worth 90 ECTS that allows students to specialise in translation theory, practice, and professional development. The course is structured in flexible stages, with different pathways depending on the qualification pursued. All students begin with core modules covering Theory and History of Translation, Linguistic and Textual Analysis, Aspects of the Profession, and Interlingual Technologies, which provide a foundation in both conceptual and practical aspects of translation. Those completing a diploma level additionally produce a Literary Translation Portfolio, while full M.Phil. students go further by completing a dissertation alongside the portfolio. Students also choose two optional modules from a changing annual selection, allowing them to tailor their studies to specific interests. A distinctive feature of the program is the Literary Translation Portfolio, in which students translate 8–10 literary texts of their own choice and provide critical commentary explaining their translation strategies and decisions. The final dissertation, typically 15,000–20,000 words, may take the form of a theoretical study of translation or a practice-based project combining experimental translation with reflective analysis. Overall, the program integrates academic research, creative practice, and professional skills to prepare students for advanced work in translation and related fields.