Program Requirements
The M.A. in Global Communication & Applied Translation (GCAT) is an intensive three-semester professional program that prepares students for work at the intersection of language, culture and technology. Students develop practical skills in translation, localization and intercultural communication while gaining experience with cutting-edge tools and industry practices. The program requires three full-time semesters of coursework (39 units per semester), including a summer internship and is designed for completion in one and a half years.
Learn more about program requirements for the 4+1 program.
Language Proficiency
Thanks to LCAL's partnership with , a local social enterprise specializing in translation and interpretation services across more than 45 languages, students have the opportunity to pair English with a variety of language options during their course of study. By the end of the program, students must demonstrate advanced proficiency in both English and their target language(s). Students will translate:
- From English into their target language
- From their target language into English
Please inquire about the availability of your preferred language pair.
Curriculum
The GCAT curriculum consists of:
- Core courses in translation theory, localization and computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools, including generative AI
- Electives from Dietrich College departments (with advisor approval)
- A required, professional summer internship
- Optional online medical interpreting course
- Individual and group projects with real-world applications
Total Units Required: 117
Internship & Career Development
Students complete a summer internship and have access to professional development resources, including:
- Resume and portfolio building
- Industry networking
- Opportunities with partners like Global Wordsmiths
Sample Course Distribution
Fall (Semester I)
- 82-703 Translation Technologies I
- 82-704 Translation Workshop I
- 82-708 Translation as a Profession I
- Two elective courses
Spring (Semester II)
- 82-705 Translation Workshop II
- 82-712 Translation Technologies II
- 82-710 Translation as a Profession II
- Two elective courses
Summer
- Professional translation internship (min. 320 hours)
Fall (Semester III)
- 82-706 Translation Workshop III
- 82-709 Translation as a Profession III
- Three elective courses
Program Structure for GCAT 4+1 Students
The GCAT 4+1 calendar for completing the curriculum will be individualized according to each student's circumstances. Students must work closely with a GCAT advisor to work out their semester plans towards completion.
Students can double count the GCAT core courses towards their undergraduate degree; however, we cannot double count electives. See the GCAT 4+1 structure below (this can also be adjusted if you would like to start taking courses your junior year):
Sample Course Distribution
Fall (Senior Year)
- 82-703 Translation Technologies I
- 82-704 Translation Workshop I
- 82-708 Translation as a Profession I
- Two elective courses
Spring (Senior Year)
- 82-705 Translation Workshop II
- 82-712 Translation Technologies II
- 82-710 Translation as a Profession II
- Two elective courses
Summer
- Professional translation internship (min. 320 hours)
Fall (Semester +1)
- 82-706 Translation Workshop III
- 82-709 Translation as a Profession III
- Three elective courses
Spring (Semester +1)
- Up to five elective courses