Advanced Diploma of Interpreting (LOTE-English)

Advanced Diploma of Interpreting (LOTE-English) - PSP60916

VOCATIONAL

Master language interpreting skills from industry experts.

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Student type:
Learning mode:
On campus and blended
Entry score:

Not applicable

Duration:
Full-time 1 year
Fees:

Fee finder

Next intake:
February, July
Location:
Melbourne City
Learning mode:
On campus and blended
Entry score:

IELTS 6.5

Duration:
Full-time 1 year
Fees:

AU$14,250 (2023 total)

Next intake:
February, July
Location:
Melbourne City

This Qualification has been superseded by the Department of Education, Skills and Employment and will change in Semester 1, 2024.

This may result in changes to the program structure, content and fees.

Overview

Are you interested in working as an interpreter?

Globalisation and migration have resulted in increased contact between people from different language backgrounds, so interpreters are more in-demand than ever.

RMIT is the leader in delivering interpreting qualifications that prepare work-ready graduates, with over 40 years of experience delivering interpreting and translating certificates, diplomas and degrees.

Utilising your advanced bilingual skills, this diploma creates a range of opportunities for you to facilitate communication between speakers of different languages. You'll learn to use communication media, and practice ethical principles in a range of professional contexts. In addition to weekly lectures and tutorials, you'll also have access to one-on-one practice sessions, allowing you to receive personalised feedback on your progress. 

We're endorsed by the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI) to offer up to 40 languages. In Semester 1 2023, the following language may be offered subject to demand:

  • Arabic
  • Mandarin
  • Vietnamese.

Languages run each semester, subject to interest and minimum numbers. If a language you wish to study is not running this semester, please submit an expression of interest.

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Scholarships available

The Victorian Government is offering scholarships to Mandarin and Vietnamese language interpreting students in the Advanced Diploma of Interpreting in 2023. Check your eligibility and find out how to apply. 

Learn more

This training is delivered with Victorian and Commonwealth Government funding.

Details

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The Advanced Diploma of Interpreting (LOTE-English) creates a range of opportunities for you to apply your knowledge and skills. 

This diploma is designed for people who have advanced bilingual skills to facilitate communication between speakers of different languages. You’ll gain advanced oral transfer skills for interpreting in specialised settings, use communication media in interpreting, and study and apply ethical principles in professional contexts.

You will attend weekly lectures and tutorials, as well as one-on-one practice sessions with your teacher. You will participate in learning activities including scenarios, case studies, role play (in dialogue, monologue and sight translation), online practice tools, group discussions and projects, practical demonstrations, reflective journals and simulations of real-life assignments.

RMIT is endorsed by NAATI to offer up to 40 languages, including: 

  • Amharic
  • Arabic
  • Assyrian
  • Auslan
  • Bangla
  • Bosnian
  • Burmese
  • Cantonese
  • Chin (Haka, Tedim)
  • Dari
  • Dinka
  • Hakka
  • Hazaragi
  • Italian 
  • Japanese
  • Karen
  • Khmer
  • Korean
  • Kurdish (Kurmanji, Sorani) and Kurdish Southern (Feyli)
  • Malay
  • Mandarin
  • Nepali
  • Nuer
  • Ormoro
  • Punjabi
  • Pashto
  • Rohingya
  • Samoan
  • Somali
  • Swahili
  • Tamil
  • Tigrinya
  • Turkish
  • Vietnamese.

Languages run each semester subject to interest and minimum numbers. If a language you wish to study is not running this semester, please submit an expression of interest.

Assessment may include written work, quizzes, presentations, interpreting demonstrations, and  class observation and peer review.

Subjects are delivered in English. Some subjects may have bilingual activities and assessment tasks.

Blended learning options

Courses offered as part of blended learning programs include a meaningful blend of online, on-campus, and workplace based learning tailored to the type of study you undertake. This learning is active, prioritising tasks that involve exploration and development of skills and knowledge through interaction and engagement.

Online aspects provide positive benefits such as flexibility and adaptability using digital activities and materials, while also strengthening the interaction and connection with timetabled and on-campus experiences such as tutorials, practicals, or workshops.

RMIT University is committed to providing you with an education that strongly links formal learning with professional or vocational practice.

Teaching staff are all NAATI-certified professional interpreters who bring a wealth of experience, current knowledge and skills into the classes, ensuring teaching and learning are in line with current industry standards.

You will participate in simulated interpreting activities with students from other discipline areas such as community services, criminal justice, occupational therapy and social work, giving you the opportunity to put your skills into practice.

In addition to the established industry connections within this qualifications, you will also have the opportunity to attend industry events and connect with the Australian Institute of Interpreters and Translators (AUSIT). You may also be interested in participating in RMIT Mentoring, where you will be matched with an industry professional for networking, professional development, and career advice.

The knowledge and skills you will acquire throughout this advanced diploma and how they can be applied in your career are described in the learning outcomes.

This diploma typically requires 3 days per week on-campus study, and an additional 3 hours of independent study time per subject per week.

You will complete 8 core subjects and 7 elective subjects.

You will prepare to interpret in complex settings by learning:

  • theoretical approaches
  • discourse management strategies
  • transfer skills
  • interpreting via communication media
  • interpreting as part of a team
  • professional practice issues

Through classes, workshops and guided group and individual learning activities, you will practise your interpreting skills and gain an appreciation of professional ethics and industry knowledge.

After completing this diploma you will be eligable to sit the external NAATI Certified Interpreter test. 

Course structure

Choose a plan below to find out more about the subjects you will study and the course structure.

Advanced Diploma of Interpreting (LOTE-English)
Program code: C6154
National curriculum code: PSP60916
Title
Location
Duration
Plan code
CRICOS
Advanced Diploma of Interpreting (LOTE-English)
City Campus
1 year full-time
C6154
094337G
Location
City Campus
Duration
1 year full-time
Plan code
C6154
CRICOS
094337G
View plan
Advanced Diploma of Interpreting (LOTE-English)
City Campus
1 year full-time
C6154
094337G
Location
City Campus
Duration
1 year full-time
Plan code
C6154
CRICOS
094337G
View plan

Note: International student visa holders can only study full-time.

Career

Demand for qualified interpreters is increasing due to high levels of interaction between people and cultures as a result of globalised economies, immigration and humanitarian reasons.

A large number of people also face language barriers due to physical disabilities (such as deafness or impaired hearing) and require language assistance.

Graduates find employment as freelancers and contractors to language services agencies. They also work in public and private sector organisations such as hospitals, courts, businesses, government departments and agencies.

The qualification awarded for this diploma is preferred by many international/multinational organisations and agencies such as NGOs, embassies, private companies and manufacturers.

Job Outlook projects that work opportunities for social professionals (translators and interpreters) are set to increase by 18.1% to 2024. Job Outlook also estimates that the most common annual salary for an interpreter in Australia is between $75,000 and $90,000, and between $75,000 and $90,000 for an interpreter.

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The program is endorsed by NAATI. Graduates will be eligible to sit the external NAATI Certified Interpreter test after completing this program.

Admissions

You need to satisfy all of the following academic (entry) requirements to be considered for entry into this course.

You must have:

  • successfully completed the Interpreting Skills for NAATI Certification, Translating Skills for NAATI Certification or Translating and Interpreting Skills for NAATI Certification, OR
  • successfully completed a Diploma of Interpreting, Diploma of Translating or equivalent in a related field, OR
  • NAATI certification at Certified Provisional Interpreter, Recognised Practicing Interpreter or Certified Translator level or higher, OR
  • at least 2 years of documented work experience as an interpreter or a translator.

If you are applying based on work experience you must include a CV that shows your relevant experience (i.e. you have been contracted, employed or engaged in translation or interpreting duties). You must also include referee details in your CV for employment verification. Voluntary or pro bono work will be considered.

Languages offered

In Semester 1, 2023, the following languages may be offered subject to demand:

  • Arabic
  • Mandarin
  • Vietnamese.

Additional languages may be offered subject to demand. If the language you wish to study is not listed above, you can register your interest.

Language selection

You must indicate your choice of language in a word document and upload it within your RMIT application. The document should be in the format: Your Name_Language Selection (e.g John Smith_Language selection.docx).

There are no prerequisite subjects required for entry into this qualification.

A selection task is not required for entry into this qualification.

You need to satisfy all of the following requirements to be considered for entry into this degree.

You must have

  • successfully completed the Interpreting Skills for NAATI Certification, Translating Skills for NAATI Certification or Translating and Interpreting Skills for NAATI Certification, OR
  • successfully completed a Diploma of Interpreting, Diploma of Translating or equivalent in a related field, OR
  • NAATI certification at Certified Provisional Interpreter, Recognised Practicing Interpreter or Certified Translator level or higher, OR
  • at least 2 years of documented work experience as an interpreter or a translator.

If you are applying based on work experience you must include a CV that shows your relevant experience (i.e. you have been contracted, employed or engaged in translation or interpreting duties). You must also include referee details in your CV for employment verification. Voluntary or pro bono work will be considered.

Languages offered Semester 2 2021:*

  • Mandarin*

* This language will be offered subject to demand.  Successful applicants will receive an email from early December advising if the language will be delivered.

Language selection:

You must indicate your choice of language in a word document and upload it within your RMIT application. The document should be in the format: Your Name_Language Selection (e.g John Smith_Language selection.docx).

Entry score calculator
Minimum Score Required

Don’t meet the requirements?

There are no prerequisite subjects required for entry into this qualification.

A selection task is not required for entry into this qualification.

To study this course you will need to complete one of the following English proficiency tests:

  • IELTS (Academic): minimum overall band of 6.5 (with no individual band below 6.0)
  • TOEFL (Internet Based Test - IBT): minimum overall score of 79 (with minimum of 13 in Reading, 12 in Listening, 18 in Speaking and 21 in Writing)
  • Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE (A)): minimum score of 58 (with no communication band less than 50)
  • Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE): minimum of 176 with no less than 169 in any component.

For detailed information on English language requirements and other proficiency tests recognised by RMIT, visit English language requirements and equivalency information.

Don't meet the English language test scores? Complete an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Advanced Plus Certificate at RMIT English Worldwide.

Additional information

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Non-academic abilities you’ll need to complete this program

The following information outlines the tasks you will be required to undertake during professional experience placement and on-campus learning activities.

The non-academic abilities listed are provided for your information only and are not entry requirements.

If there are any activities outlined which may be difficult for you to undertake, there are a range of adjustments to your study conditions available to enable and support you to demonstrate these abilities. Please contact the Equitable Learning Service to discuss any adjustments you may require.

By understanding the types of activities you’ll participate in, you can:

  • understand more about the program
  • determine if you may need support during your studies
  • make an informed decision about whether the program is suitable for you

If you are living with disability, long-term illness and/or a mental health condition, we can support you by making adjustments to activities in your program so that you can participate fully in your studies.

To receive learning adjustments, you need to register with Equitable Learning Service

The University considers the wellbeing and safety of all students, staff and the community to be a priority in academic and professional experience placement settings.

Pathways

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Understanding pathways

Undertaking a certificate, diploma, advanced diploma or associate degree can help you meet the entry requirements for your preferred degree. These qualifications often provide credit, reducing the duration of your bachelor degree.

Explore the pathway finder
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This course offers pathway options. If you don’t meet the entry requirements, a formal pathway might be your way in.

Credit, recognition of prior learning, professional experience and accreditation from a professional body can reduce the duration of your study by acknowledging your earlier, relevant experience.

Credit and exemptions will be assessed consistent with the principles of the RMIT Credit Policy.

Graduates of this course will be guaranteed entry into the courses below.

For more information, explore our Pathway finder, or contact Study@RMIT.

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When you successfully complete the Diploma of Interpreting (LOTE-English) you may be eligible for entry into the Advanced Diploma of Interpreting (LOTE-English).

Credit may reduce the duration of your study by acknowledging your earlier, relevant study experience.

When you are submitting an application, please indicate that you want to be considered for credit and provide detailed course syllabus (also known as course outline), outlining volume of learning, course content and weekly topics, learning objectives/outcomes, assessment types and their weightings, and reference to the learning resources such as prescribed textbooks and recommended readings.

When you successfully complete this program, you are guaranteed entry into the Bachelor of International Studies (Languages) with two semesters of advanced standing (equivalent to 96 credit points).

Alternatively, you may be eligible for entry into other RMIT undergraduate programs.

Fees

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2023 fees

The tuition fees you will pay for this program will depend on whether you are offered a Victorian Government subsidised place or a full-fee place. To find out if you are eligible for a government subsidised place, follow the steps at How to check if you are eligible.

  • 2023 government subsidised place: AU$6,250* per annum
  • 2023 full-fee place: AU$8,250* per annum

*Fees shown are indicative only and subject to change given individual circumstances at the time of enrolment.

Fee finder

Use our fee finder to get an estimate of your fees for this program.

Additional expenses

  • Student services and amenities fee (SSAF): AU$326 maximum fee for 2023.
  • Other items related to your program, including field trips, textbooks and equipment.

Annual fee adjustment

The student tuition fees as displayed by the fee finder are indicative only and subject to change given individual circumstances at enrolment. Fees are adjusted on an annual basis and these fees should only be used as a guide.

Eligibility Exemption criteria

**The Victorian Government is currently waiving three (3) eligibility criteria around prior qualifications. This means that more people who want to study a vocational education program at RMIT, and who have studied previously, will be able to access a government subsidised place in a program. Find out how to check your eligibility

Defer your payment

The Australian Government provides financial assistance via the VET Student Loans scheme, which allows eligible students in eligible programs to defer payment of their tuition fees, up to the maximum loan amount for their program.

Payments and refunds

For information on how to pay your fees or how to apply for a refund, please see Paying your fees and applying for refunds.

In addition to tuition fees, you will be charged an annual student services and amenities fee (SSAF), which is used to maintain and enhance services and amenities that improve your experience as an RMIT student.

The SSAF is calculated based on your enrolment load and the maximum fee for 2023 is $326. 

For more information about calculating your actual SSAF see Paying SSAF.

You may also be required to purchase other items related to your program, including field trips, textbooks and equipment. These additional fees and expenses vary from program to program.

VET Student Loans

The Australian Government provides financial assistance via the VET Student Loans scheme, which allows eligible students in eligible programs to defer payment of their tuition fees, up to the maximum loan amount for their program.

How does a VET Student Loan work?

If your VET Student Loan application is successful, the Australian Government will pay RMIT your tuition fees on your behalf, up to the maximum loan amount for your program.

Your VET Student Loan becomes part of your VETSL debt. You will start repaying your accumulated VETSL debt to the Australian Government once you earn above the minimum income threshold for repayment, which is adjusted each year (this also applies if you are still studying).

The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) will calculate your compulsory repayment for the year and include this on your income tax notice.

The Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology advises that:

  • VET student loans will not be approved for students who do not meet eligibility requirements; and
  • a VET student loan gives rise to a HELP debt that continues to be a debt due to the Commonwealth until it is repaid.

For more information see VET Student Loans or Study Assist.

VET Student Loan cap

If your program is eligible for the VET Student Loan scheme and has a loan cap that doesn’t cover the total amount of the tuition fees for your program, then you’ll need to pay RMIT the difference by the due date once you exceed the cap.

It’s easy for you to keep track of your VET Student Loan debt, and you can choose to make upfront payments at any time before the census date. 

RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.

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The total indicative tuition fee for 2023 commencement is AU$14,250.

In addition to tuition fees you also need to pay for:

You also need to account for your living expenses. Estimate the cost of living in Melbourne.

Find out more details about how fees are calculated and the expected annual increase.

Applying for refunds

Find information on how to apply for a refund as a continuing international student.

Scholarships are available for eligible students applying to study interpreting and translating in Mandarin and Vietnamese in 2023. Visit the Victorian Government website to check your eligibility and find out how to apply.

RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Looking for answers or more general information?

Use our Frequently Asked Questions to learn about the application process and its equity access schemes, find out how to accept or defer your offer or request a leave of absence, discover information about your fees, refunds and scholarships, and explore the various student support and advocacy services, as well as how to find out more about your preferred program, and more.

Sorry, this program is not available for international students intending to study on a student visa.

If you hold a different visa type, you may be eligible. Please contact Study@RMIT for more information.

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Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Luwaytini' by Mark Cleaver, Palawa.

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aboriginal flag
torres strait flag

Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.

More information