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Translation Programs

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Note: This is the 2019–2020 eCalendar. Update the year in your browser's URL bar for the most recent version of this page, or .

Translation Programs

We offer three unique translation programs:

  1. Certificate in Translation (English to French, French to English; Spanish to French, Spanish to English, English to Spanish, French/English to Spanish): a 30-credit, undergraduate-level program. Courses are offered evenings (39 hours).
  2. Graduate Certificate in Legal Translation; a 15-credit, graduate-level program. Courses are offered evenings (39 hours).
  3. Graduate Diploma in Translation* (English to French, French to English, Spanish to French, Spanish to English): a 30-credit, graduate-level program. Courses are offered evenings (39 hours). * Note: The Graduate Diploma in Translation is currently closed for admission.
Programs, Courses and University Regulations—2019-2020 (last updated Jun. 5, 2019) (disclaimer)

Certificate in Translation

Certificate in Translation (30 credits) (English to French, French to English) (Spanish to French, Spanish to English) (French/English to Spanish)

This certificate program is designed to provide students with the fundamentals of translation.

Programs, Courses and University Regulations—2019-2020 (last updated Jun. 5, 2019) (disclaimer)

Translation Programs: General Academic Requirements

Translation Programs: General Academic Requirements

Admission Requirements

Admission Requirements

To be admitted to the Certificate Program in Translation:

  1. Students must possess native or near-native command of the languages of study (emphasis will be placed on written skills);
  2. Students must pass an Entrance Examination;
  3. Students must hold a CEGEP diploma (DEC or equivalent);
  4. Students 21 years of age and over who do not have the normal academic background for admission may be admitted as Mature students.

Admission Procedures

Admission Procedures

Residency Requirements and Advanced Standing

Residency Requirements and Advanced Standing

Students are required to complete at least 70% of the total program requirements at Ï㽶ÊÓƵ. Advanced Standing of up to 9 credits may be awarded for successfully completed equivalent study done at the university level, within the last five years. Students are permitted to be away from the program for no more than one year without reapplying.

Time Limits

Time Limits

The program must normally be completed within four years of admission. Students exceeding the time limit may request an extension, in writing, which may be granted under special circumstances, with the approval of the Translation Studies unit.

Academic Standing Requirements

Academic Standing Requirements

  1. Students are required to obtain a minimum grade of B- in each course in the program;
  2. Students who have more than one unsatisfactory grade in the program will be required to withdraw from the program;
  3. In order to be eligible for the certificate, students must obtain a minimum cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 3.0 over 4.0 in the program (to be calculated over all courses including unsatisfactory grades and failures);
  4. Students must attend at least 2/3 of all lectures.

Second Certificate

Second Certificate

Students having completed the Certificate in Translation, and wishing to complete a second certificate in another language of specialization, will be granted a maximum of 9 credits (three courses) Advanced Standing for duplicate courses already completed.

Special Students

Special Students

  1. Special Students may take courses in the program provided they have passed the Entrance Examination. Please consult School of Continuing Studies > Getting Started > Admission Requirements > Special Student Status for further information pertaining to Special Students.
  2. Special Students, although not formally admitted to the program, are expected to demonstrate seriousness of academic purpose. Special Students are permitted to repeat the same course only once.
  3. Special Students taking courses in the Certificate in Translation program will be governed by the Academic Standing Requirements mentioned in Translation Programs: General Academic Requirements.
Programs, Courses and University Regulations—2019-2020 (last updated Jun. 5, 2019) (disclaimer)

Certificate (Cert.) Translation: English to French Option (30 credits)

The Certificate in Translation (English to French) aims to meet the industry needs for professionally trained translators in Canada. A review of the normative uses of language and the problems of translation will be followed by the translation of texts in a variety of fields currently in high demand, as well as an in-depth examination of ethical standards, and...

For more information, see Certificate (Cert.) Translation: English to French Option (30 credits).

Certificate (Cert.) Translation: French to English Option (30 credits)

The Certificate in Translation (French to English) aims to meet the industry needs for professionally trained translators in Canada. A review of the normative uses of language and the problems of translation will be followed by the translation of texts in a variety of fields currently in high demand, as well as an in-depth examination of ethical standards, and...

For more information, see Certificate (Cert.) Translation: French to English Option (30 credits).

Certificate (Cert.) Translation: Spanish to French Option (30 credits)

** This program is currently not offered. ** ...

For more information, see Certificate (Cert.) Translation: Spanish to French Option (30 credits).

Certificate (Cert.) Translation: Spanish to English Option (30 credits)

** This program is currently closed for admission ** ...

For more information, see Certificate (Cert.) Translation: Spanish to English Option (30 credits).

Certificate (Cert.) Translation: English to Spanish (30 credits)

The Certificate in Translation (English to Spanish) aims to meet the industry need for professionally trained translators in the North American context as a result of globalization and immigration trends. A review of the normative uses of language and the problems of translation will be followed by the translation of texts in a variety of fields currently in high...

For more information, see Certificate (Cert.) Translation: English to Spanish (30 credits).

Certificate (Cert.) Translation: French/English into Spanish Option (30 credits)

** This program is currently closed for admission ** ...

For more information, see Certificate (Cert.) Translation: French/English into Spanish Option (30 credits).

Graduate Certificate in Legal Translation

Graduate Certificate in Legal Translation

Set yourself apart in the legal and business communities with specialized skills in legal translation.

The Graduate Certificate in Legal Translation is designed to equip learners and working professionals to draft, write, and translate documents in multilingual environments. With access to digital tools, modern techniques, and experienced instructors, you'll emerge with the knowledge and practical skills to make an immediate contribution to your organization of choice.

Programs, Courses and University Regulations—2019-2020 (last updated Jun. 5, 2019) (disclaimer)

Graduate Certificate in Legal Translation: General Academic Requirements

Graduate Certificate in Legal Translation: General Academic Requirements

The Graduate Certificate in Legal Translation is a 15-credit, graduate-level program designed to equip students and working professionals in the legal and business communities with specialised training to enrich their current portfolio or to prepare for work in both the public and private sectors in the areas of legal translation and revision, (co)writing of legal texts, and/or, consultancy in legal aspects of language in multiple professional settings. Courses focus on principles and practices encountered in jurilinguistics using the most up-to-date techniques and tools. The program may be completed within three academic semesters (Fall/Winter/Summer), or in a maximum of two years. Fall, Winter and Summer entry options are offered.

Admission Requirements

Admission Requirements

To be admitted to the Graduate Certificate in Legal Translation:

  1. Applicants must pass the Entrance Examination for the Graduate Certificate in Legal Translation.
  2. Applicants must have an undergraduate degree from an approved university with a minimum cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 3.0 out of 4.0*

    * If your CGPA is lower than the above requirement, please submit the following for consideration with your application and official transcript.

    a) Letter of Intent: A letter, one to two pages in length, single-spaced, written in English or French, which addresses the following:

    • basis for interest in the program;
    • your knowledge that would be pertinent to the program;
    • your interest in the field of study and the reasons for applying to our program;
    • plans for integrating the training into your current or future career;
    • a description of your professional experience and its relevance, if applicable, to the program;
    • awards received or other contributions;
    • any additional information relevant to your application.

    b) Curriculum Vitae

    c) Two Letters of Reference: At least one should be from a current or former employer.

    Supporting documents should be delivered to:

    • Client Services Office – Ï㽶ÊÓƵ & Convocation
    • School of Continuing Studies
    • 688 Sherbrooke Street West, Room 1125
    • Montreal QC H3A 3R1 Canada
  3. If you have studied outside of Canada, you are strongly advised to request an evaluation of your degree called Évaluation comparative des études effectuées hors du Québec, from the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Diversité et de l'Inclusion. For further details, you may contact their office at 514-864-9191 or visit them on the web at .

    If you have completed an undergraduate degree from a recognized university outside of Canada and are applying to this program for which a minimum CGPA is required, please visit www.mcgill.ca/gradapplicants/international/apply/equivalency for information about international degree equivalencies.

Admission Procedures

Admission Procedures

Residency Requirements and Advanced Standing

Residency Requirements and Advanced Standing

Students are required to complete at least four (4) courses in the program at Ï㽶ÊÓƵ. Advanced Standing of one (1) course may be awarded for successfully completing equivalent study at another university within the last five years.

Students who have been granted Advanced Standing and/or exemptions are not permitted to register for the courses for which they have been granted said Advanced Standing and/or exemptions. An official description of the courses taken elsewhere and the marks obtained must be submitted along with a written application for Advanced Standing before completing the first year of the program.

Time Limits

Time Limits

The program must normally be completed within three (3) years of the date of admission. Students exceeding the time limit may request an extension, in writing, which may be granted under special circumstances, with the approval of the Director.

Academic Standing Requirements

Academic Standing Requirements

  1. Students are required to obtain a minimum grade of B- in each course in the program. This is in accordance with the grading system common to graduate-level programs in the University. For further details, see University Regulations and Resources;
  2. Students may repeat the same course once;
  3. Students who have more than one unsatisfactory grade in the program will be required to withdraw from the program;
  4. Students must attend 2/3 of all lectures.

Special Students

Special Students

Members of the Ordre des traducteurs, terminologues et interprètes agréés du Québec or suitably qualified students wishing to take only certain courses and not wishing to be admitted to the Graduate Certificate in Legal Translation may register as a Special Student with the Translation Studies unit's approval. Please consult School of Continuing Studies > Getting Started > Admission Requirements > Special Student Status > Graduate Courses for further information pertaining to Special Students.

Special Students may register by department approval only and must meet the minimum requirements to register for courses. A Special Student takes regular credit courses, but is not recognized as working toward the Graduate Certificate. Special Student status is limited to two (2) Graduate Certificate courses in a program. Students are encouraged to apply to the program before completing two (2) courses.

Programs, Courses and University Regulations—2019-2020 (last updated Jun. 7, 2019) (disclaimer)

Graduate Certificate (Gr. Cert.) Legal Translation (15 credits)

** This program is closed for admissions. ** ...

For more information, see Graduate Certificate (Gr. Cert.) Legal Translation (15 credits).

Graduate Diploma in Translation

Graduate Diploma in Translation

Note: This program is currently closed for admission.

This Graduate Diploma in Translation provides academic training in translation at the professional level.

Programs, Courses and University Regulations—2019-2020 (last updated Jun. 5, 2019) (disclaimer)

Graduate Diploma in Translation: General Academic Requirements

Graduate Diploma in Translation: General Academic Requirements

**This program is currently closed for admission. We are no longer accepting new students.**

General Academic Requirements

The Diploma Program is divided into three (3) major constituent parts. The first part consists of the required courses; the second of the complementary courses; and the third of the comprehensive evaluation through the presentation of a student portfolio.

Students must successfully complete six (6) required courses. In addition to the required courses, Diploma candidates must choose four (4) complementary courses in the option of their specialization. Students in the Spanish option must take CCTR 523 Text Revision in Spanish from the required courses as well as a minimum of three (3) complementary courses from the Spanish language section. Students with proficient knowledge of a third language may take one (1) course (3 credits) from the list of third language courses in translation offered in the certificate program. However, students in the Spanish option of the diploma program do not qualify to take the Spanish courses in the Certificate in Translation program for credit.

Upon completion of the academic program, students will present a comprehensive portfolio of their accomplishments for evaluation. Under the guidance of an adviser, students will prepare for this purpose a "best work" portfolio of the courses taken throughout their program. Based on the information gathered over the duration of the program, students will explain their progress and place the relevance of each of their courses into perspective. The "best work" portfolio provides students with the opportunity to show work done in their third language.

Admission Requirements

Admission Requirements

To be admitted to the Graduate Diploma in Translation:

  1. Applicants must be proficient in the two languages of their concentration: English/French, Spanish/French, or Spanish/English, as applicable. Reading knowledge of the third language is necessary for students in the Spanish option;
  2. Applicants must have an undergraduate degree from an approved university with a minimum cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 3.0 out of 4.0 OR a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.2 out of 4.0, in the last two years of full-time academic studies.* In addition, applicants must have completed a concentration in Translation Studies consisting of no less than 30 credits, or equivalent, at the undergraduate level.

    If the degree is in another field, applicants will be required to follow the Qualifying Program in translation, be it in part or in its entirety. The Qualifying Program consists of those courses included in the Certificate in Translation.

    * If your CGPA is lower than the above requirement, please submit the following for consideration with your application and official transcript.

    a) Letter of Intent: A letter, one to two pages in length, single-spaced, written in English or French, which addresses the following:

    • basis for interest in the program;
    • your knowledge that would be pertinent to the program;
    • your interest in the field of study and the reasons for applying to our program;
    • plans for integrating the training into your current or future career;
    • a description of your professional experience and its relevance, if applicable, to the program;
    • awards received or other contributions;
    • any additional information relevant to your application.

    b) Curriculum Vitae

    c) Two Letters of Reference: At least one should be from a current or former employer.

    Supporting documents should be delivered to:

    • Client Services Office
    • Ï㽶ÊÓƵ & Convocation
    • School of Continuing Studies
    • 688 Sherbrooke Street West, Room 1125
    • Montreal QC H3A 3R1 Canada
  3. If you have studied outside of Canada, you are strongly advised to request an evaluation of your degree called Évaluation comparative des études effectuées hors du Québec, from the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Diversité et de l'Inclusion. For further details, you may contact their office at 514-864-9191 or visit them on the web at .

    If you have completed an undergraduate degree from a recognized university outside of Canada and are applying to this program for which a minimum CGPA is required, please visit www.mcgill.ca/gradapplicants/international/apply/equivalency for information about international degree equivalencies.

  4. Applicants must pass the Diploma Entrance Examination (see www.mcgill.ca/continuingstudies/area-of-study/translation-studies).

Admission Procedures

Admission Procedures

Residency Requirements and Advanced Standing

Residency Requirements and Advanced Standing

Students are required to complete at least 70% of the total program requirements at Ï㽶ÊÓƵ. Advanced Standing of up to 9 credits may be awarded for successfully completed equivalent courses done within the last five years.

Students who have been granted Advanced Standing and/or exemptions are not permitted to register for the courses for which they have been granted said Advanced Standing and/or exemptions.

An official description of the courses taken elsewhere and the marks obtained must be submitted along with a written application for Advanced Standing.

Time Limits

Time Limits

The program must normally be completed within four years of the date of admission. Students exceeding the time limit may request an extension, in writing, which may be granted under special circumstances, with the approval of the Director.

Academic Standing Requirements

Academic Standing Requirements

  1. Students are required to obtain a minimum grade of B- in each course in the program. This is in accordance with the grading system common to graduate-level programs in the University. For further details, see University Regulations and Resources;
  2. Students may repeat the same course only once;
  3. Students who have more than one unsatisfactory grade in the program will be required to withdraw from the program;
  4. Students must attend at least 2/3 of all lectures;
  5. After successful completion of all courses, students must complete a Comprehensive Evaluation.

Special Students

Special Students

Members of the Ordre des traducteurs, terminologues et interprètes agréés du Québec or suitably qualified students wishing to take only certain courses and not wishing to be admitted to the Graduate Diploma in Translation may register as a Special Student with the Translation Studies unit's approval. Please consult School of Continuing Studies > Getting Started > Admission Requirements > Special Student Status > Graduate Courses for further information pertaining to Special Students.

Programs, Courses and University Regulations—2019-2020 (last updated Jun. 5, 2019) (disclaimer)

Graduate Diploma (Gr. Dip.) Translation: English to French Option (30 credits)

** This program is currently not offered ** The Graduate Diploma in Translation, when combined with the Certificate in Translation or equivalent, will give access to the professional designation delivered by the Ordre des traducteurs, terminologues, et interprètes agréés du Québec.

For more information, see Graduate Diploma (Gr. Dip.) Translation: English to French Option (30 credits).

Graduate Diploma (Gr. Dip.) Translation: French to English Option (30 credits)

** This program is currently not offered. ** The Graduate Diploma in Translation, when combined with the Certificate in Translation or equivalent, will give access to the professional designation delivered by the Ordre des traducteurs, terminologues, et interprètes agréés du Québec.

For more information, see Graduate Diploma (Gr. Dip.) Translation: French to English Option (30 credits).

Graduate Diploma (Gr. Dip.) Translation: Spanish to French Option (30 credits)

** This program is currently not offered. ** The Graduate Diploma in Translation, when combined with the Certificate in Translation or equivalent, will give access to the professional designation delivered by the Ordre des traducteurs, terminologues, et interprètes agréés du Québec.

For more information, see Graduate Diploma (Gr. Dip.) Translation: Spanish to French Option (30 credits).

Graduate Diploma (Gr. Dip.) Translation: Spanish to English Option (30 credits)

** This program is currently not offered. ** The Graduate Diploma in Translation, when combined with the Certificate in Translation or equivalent, will give access to the professional designation delivered by the Ordre des traducteurs, terminologues, et interprètes agréés du Québec.

For more information, see Graduate Diploma (Gr. Dip.) Translation: Spanish to English Option (30 credits).

Ordre des traducteurs, terminologues et interprètes agréés du Québec

Ordre des traducteurs, terminologues et interprètes agréés du Québec

The Ordre des traducteurs, terminologues et interprètes agréés du Québec is an order with a reserved title representing more than 2100 members, all of whom are certified language professionals.

As part of its mandate to protect the public, the Order has adopted the following mission: to ensure and promote the competence and professionalism of its members in the fields of translation, terminology, and interpretation.

Those wishing to apply for admission as students should contact the admission secretary at 514-845-4411, ext. 1221.

For enquiries about the certification process, please contact the certification coordinator at 514-845-4411 , ext. 1231.

  • OTTIAQ
  • 2021 Union Avenue, Suite 1108
  • Montreal QC H3A 2S9
  • Telephone: 514-845-4411
  • Fax: 514-845-9903
  • Email: info [at] ottiaq.org
  • Website:
Programs, Courses and University Regulations—2019-2020 (last updated Jun. 7, 2019) (disclaimer)
School of Continuing Studies—2019-2020 (last updated Jun. 5, 2019) (disclaimer)
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