Translation Studies
PhD
We have specialist researchers and active practitioners in translation across all our subject areas and supervise projects across a wide range of language combinations, not limited to those we teach at undergraduate level in the department.
Specialist researchers and active practitioners in translation
Our particular strengths lie in the cultural, historical, transnational, and political dimensions of translation, as well as in practice-based approaches, especially in literary and academic settings.
72%
of our publications were rated 4* and 3* ('world leading' and 'internationally excellent)' REF (2014).
19/62
in the Guardian League Table for Modern Languages and Linguistics for 2018.
90%
of environment was also rated 4* and 3* REF (2014).
Research at Liverpool
Research theses can be supervised in any area of Translation Studies, but we particularly welcome projects that complement our interest in the multiple intersections between language, media, and identity. We have established clusters of PhD students working on volunteer and non-professional translation (e.g. fansubbing) and on sociological approaches to translation in a number of settings (e.g. journalism). Other areas of particular interest include audio-visual translation, as well as gender, queer, and postcolonial translation theories and practice.
Research themes
Projects currently or previously supervised by members of staff in Translation Studies include:
- Habitus and Hexis in News Translation of Saudi Arabia in the British Broadsheet Press
- Motivations and Structures in Chinese Fansub Communities
- The Treatment of Swearing in English to Chinese Audio-Visual Translation
- 'A Sociocognitive Approach to Audiovisual Translated Texts: Dubbing /Subtitling in TV Series (English/Italian).
Facilities
The University of Liverpool has excellent research facilities within the Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences. For postgraduate researchers, these include designated shared office space and access to a vast repository of sociolinguistic journals (including e-journal), through the Sydney Jones Library.
As a postgraduate researcher at the University of Liverpool, you will become part of the Liverpool Doctoral College. The LDC supports all postgraduate researchers across the University to thrive in their doctoral programme with our dedicated team of esteemed supervisors, professional services staff, and student peers, ensuring that our students succeed in their studies.
Research groups
Research Groups and Centres:
- Image, Sound and Performance and Conflict
- Memory and Heritage
- Place, Space and Belonging
- Media Histories: From Manuscript to Digital.
Staff in Modern Languages and Cultures also have close links with the Centre for the Study of International Slavery (CSIS), Centre for Medieval and Renaissance Studies (CMRS), Eighteenth-Century Worlds Research Centre (ECW) and the Centre for New and International Writing.
Study options and fees
MPhil
The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) can be thought of as a shorter version of the PhD. It requires the same research skills, training, planning, and project management. It can be a way to assess whether you wish to undertake doctoral research - or it can be taken for its own sake.
| Duration | Fees: Home and EU Students | Fees: International Students | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full time | 2-4 years | £4,260 | £19,850 (Lab based programmes) £16,150 (Non Lab based programmes) |
| Part time | 4-6 years | £2,130 | £9,925 (Lab based programmes) £8,075 (Non Lab based programmes) |
PhD
A doctoral degree is awarded to students that have demonstrated the ability to conceptualise, design, and implement a substantial research project that results in new knowledge, applications, or understanding in their field of study. During your research, you can expect to draw on direct clinical and observational experience to produce an original thesis of 80,000-100,000 words. You'll be part of a research group which matches your research interests. Research groups offer opportunities for cross-disciplinary research collaboration, as well as support and expertise for your research.
| Duration | Fees: Home and EU Students | Fees: International Students | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full time | 2-4 years | £4,260 | £19,850 (Lab based programmes) £16,150 (Non Lab based programmes) |
| Part time | 4-6 years | £2,130 | £9,925 (Lab based programmes) £8,075 (Non Lab based programmes) |
MD
The Doctor of Medicine (MD) is a doctoral degree open to medical practitioners (technically, anyone holding a medical qualification registrable with the General Medical Council). It is equivalent in requirements and format to the PhD.
| Duration | Fees: Home and EU Students | Fees: International Students | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full time | 2-4 years | £4,260 | £19,850 (Lab based programmes) £16,150 (Non Lab based programmes) |
| Part time | 2-6 years | £2,130 | £9,925 (Lab based programmes) £8,075 (Non Lab based programmes) |
Entry requirements
Eligibility and entry qualifications
Applications are welcomed from both full-time and part-time students. For research degrees, we would normally expect applicants to have a BA or BSc degree of 2:1 standard (and also an MA) in a subject relevant to the proposed field of research.
English language requirements
To apply for this research degree, you must have reached a minimum standard of English. You need to be able to provide evidence of this. See our English language requirements for international students for guidance on the different English language qualifications and evidence that you can provide.
International qualifications
We welcome applications from within the EU and from around the world. You should ensure that your qualifications are equivalent to those which are required to study for this research degree. See our guidance on international qualifications.
Additional requirements
How to apply
Research degree applications can be made online. Before you apply, we recommend that you identify a supervisor and develop a research proposal. You'll also need to ensure that you have funding to cover all fees.
Applications are open all year round.
Find a supervisor
Your supervisor is your main source of academic support and mentoring. You'll need to find a supervisor before you start your research degree. It's helpful to identify a supervisor and discuss your research proposal before you apply.
View supervisors in this area
Need help finding a supervisor? Contact us
- Postgraduate Support team
- Email: HLC-PGR@liverpool.ac.uk
Related studentships
Your training and development
Join us and you'll also join the Liverpool Doctoral College, our home for doctoral support, training and development. You'll join a vibrant and collaborative community of researchers, get tailored support for your development and have the opportunity to undertake a work placement.
Arrange a personalised visit
Visit our campus and facilities in person with a visit that's tailored for you. Visit us by yourself or in a small group.