Translation and Translation Studies

Profession

Language is a unique treasure – a free gift given to a human being by nature. Ability to speak and to communicate differs us from other creatures on the planet Earth. While thinking, people use their native language. Language serves the means of each and every sphere of life.
Any language goes through an ordinary circle from birth to death. It exists in two main forms: oral and written. It is rather simple for a native speaker and very complicated for a foreigner.
It all started with the Word. The word can kill and the word can bring a person back to life. The knowledge of two or more languages means to obtain two or more world outlooks. Being good in communication helps to get more friends, helps to get better professional positions.
A linguist studies language structures and their meanings. A professional translator implements interpersonal and intercultural communication, which helps nations and peoples to understand each other better, and to prevent misfortunes.
Don’t hesitate! Become a linguist! And you will rule the world!

Educational Process

During the first year students of the Institute of Foreign Languages start their educational process with the English language. Within the period of two semesters they obtain language skills relevant to intermediate or upper intermediate level (B1-B2 in accordance with Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: Learning, Teaching, Assessment). At the same time they go deep into Humanities: Philosophy, History, Culture Studies, Sociology and others.
Having become an independent user of English a student starts learning one more foreign language of his/her choice in the second year. Most often Spanish, German, Italian, French, Chinese or Japanese is chosen.
During the second year English Language History, Indo-European Languages, Comparative Historical and Typological Linguistics as well as Theoretical Phonetics, Theoretical Grammar, Lexicology and Stylistics are taught alongside with other special philological disciplines. Much time and energy students devote to the study of translation and interpretation in theory and practice. IT and Software Fundamentals are the essence of the whole process of education and practical work.
Students write essays, course and graduation papers, exploring their individual research abilities and creativities under the supervision of experienced teachers and professors.
Student’s life is full of joy and unexpected happy moments. Last but not least they take up sports.

Practice

Practical skills, undoubtedly, are extremely important for a specialist in interpreting and translation. Oral and written practice in foreign languages, including practice in translation and interpreting, is the essence of everyday students’ study. They work on translations in different functional styles of language: belle-lettres, publicistic and newspaper styles, scientific prose and style of official documents. In the fourth year students acquire professional skills working as translators and interpreters in different companies and agencies both at home and abroad.

Career

Obtained skills give graduates an excellent basis for a wide range of careers not only as translators and interpreters but also in other language-related employments in various spheres and areas of life. Many of them become top managers in Russian and foreign companies, work at municipal and governmental structures. Being fluent users of two or more foreign languages, they easily balance business and their personal life.