Not applicable
IELTS 6.5
AU$14,250 (2023 total)
This Qualification has been superseded by the Department of Education, Skills and Employment and will change in Semester 1, 2024.This may result in changes to the program structure, duration, content and fees.
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:
Languages run each semester, subject to interest and minimum numbers.
Access one-on-one practice sessions and receive feedback from NAATI-certified professional interpreter teaching staff.
Put your skills into practice through role-plays and simulations and prepare for a range of professional contexts.
Graduates will be eligible and well-prepared to sit the external NAATI Certified Interpreter test.
This training is delivered with Victorian and Commonwealth Government funding.
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:
Languages run each semester subject to interest and minimum numbers.
Subjects are delivered in English. Some subjects may have bilingual activities and assessment tasks.
Assessment may include written work, quizzes, presentations, interpreting demonstrations, and class observation and peer review.
The types of classes you have will depend on the course you’re studying. Classes are offered in various formats designed to provide meaningful engagement with staff, industry and peers and provide for access and use of spaces where learning can be applied and active, including an array of specialised equipment.
Most RMIT courses do not include passive large-scale classes such as lectures, instead the content traditionally provided in lectures is made available online. This may be in the form of readings, videos or other on-demand learning materials. This content will also support the basis of interactive learning that takes place in on-campus classes.
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:
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.
Choose a plan below to find out more about the subjects you will study and the course structure.
Note: International student visa holders can only study full-time.
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.
The program is endorsed by NAATI. Graduates will be eligible to sit the external NAATI Certified Interpreter test after completing this program.
You need to satisfy all of the following academic (entry) requirements to be considered for entry into this course.
You must have:
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.
In Semester 1, 2023, the following languages may be offered subject to demand:
Additional languages may be offered subject to demand.
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
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.
* This language will be offered subject to demand. Successful applicants will receive an email from early December advising if the language will be delivered.
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.
To study this course you will need to complete one of the following English proficiency tests:
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
*Fees shown are indicative only and subject to change given individual circumstances at the time of enrolment.
Use our fee finder to get an estimate of your fees for this program.
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.
**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
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.
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 2024 is $351.
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.
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.
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:
For more information see VET Student Loans or Study Assist.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.