Are you fluent in English, French, and/or Spanish? Do you have an affinity for languages and written expression? The Translation and Written Communication unit offers certificate and diploma programs that can provide you with the skills and experience necessary to succeed as a translator. With a focus on translation principles, language analysis, and hands-on translation of texts from a variety of fields, our programs prepare you for the challenges and rewards of a career in translation.

To accommodate the needs of working professionals and individuals keen to enter a new career, the Certificate in Translation and Graduate Diploma in Translation courses are offered in the evening. In classes limited to 25, students build core translation knowledge and skills, translating to or from English, French, or Spanish. At the graduate level, students produce a portfolio of their translation projects for evaluation that can also be used to assist their entry into the language industry as qualified translators.

For people seeking to improve their Spanish skills, we offer a four-level Spanish language program leading to a Certificate of Proficiency in Spanish. Intermediate-level speakers who do business in Latin America can advance their careers by earning the Graduate Certificate in Professional Communication, Spanish—a brand-new program.

Individuals who would like to refine their academic writing skills or learn to write for a professional audience can do so at The McGill Writing Centre (MWC), which offers credit and non-credit courses for both degree program and continuing education students. The MWC also offers workshops, seminars, and tutorials. For more information, refer to Programs, Courses and University Regulations > Faculties & Schools > School of Continuing Studies > Areas of Study > The McGill Writing Centre.