Introduction

In the globalized world, competent translators are needed in almost every sector including media, education, business, logistics, tourism, publishing, law, et cetera. Particularly, in the Turkish import-export companies, the demand for competent interpreters with a high command of Arabic has mounted in the recent years.

Being aware of global market demands and developing sectors in Turkey that meet international demands, Istanbul Aydın University started the Translation and Interpreting undergraduate program in Arabic in 2012 with the intent of giving a four-year license education. Our professional curriculum prepares students to be experts in the areas of translation and interpretation. As we consider the specific needs of the developing markets, we understand the importance of expertise in our age and train our students as interpreters who are experts in their subjects. We encourage students to become familiar with computer-assisted translation tools, so that they are able to take advantage of technological advances in the translation field.

In our department, the courses are intended to raise the Arabic level of our students, deepen their awareness of the nuances of language as well as social, cultural, historical, linguistic specificities. Our students have access to internships and professional opportunities at companies and organizations. They are also given projects that can ease their preparation for an interpreting assignment, while the spontaneity necessary for interpretation can increase their speed of completing translation assignments. Our program is, therefore, proud of teaching students the skills that will help them get ahead in today’s competitive job market.

If they want to complete the Translation and Interpreting Department, they can be employed in various fields such as publishing houses, banks, translation offices, and various public and private sector organizations with international connections.