Language interpretation is the art of communicating in the target language, what has been said in the source language. This is the job of an interpreter who is a linguist well versed with at least two languages. An interpreter may be efficient enough to undertake interpretation in more than one language. In order to gain proficiency in interpretation, an interpreter has to professionally qualify by undergoing various certification courses, which are conducted by Vocational institutes, Colleges and Universities:-

(1) Bachelors or Masters Degree, with a second language is a must. The chosen target language is usually one’s mother tongue. The Interpreter can obtain a degree from any of the recognized universities in the country. Second language undertaken by the interpreter at degree level can be treated as his source language in which he has obtained proficiency.

(2) Source language will be a new foreign language for the interpreter. He has to make a choice between various foreign languages like Chinese, Japanese, Korean, French or any other foreign language.Subsequently, he has to undertake language certification courses conducted by any of the recognized colleges or institutes.The duration of these courses may vary from 6 months to 2 years. Internet is the best window for making oneself acquainted with various languages.

(3) There are many colleges which provide short term certificate courses to students. Most students take the basic "Introduction to Translation and Interpreting" course before applying for the certification courses. Students can usually complete the program in 1 – 2 years. Certificates are language-specific and are offered in various languages according to student demand. To apply for acceptance into the certificate programs, one must submit written and oral (taped) work in both English and the other language. Upon earning the Interpretation Certificate, students may consider taking professional certification or accreditation tests such as the state court interpreter certification exam. BCC offers non-credit workshops in preparation for these exams.

(4) An interpreter can also undertake American Sign Language certification courses enabling him to undertake interpretation in sign language for deaf and blind.

The language certification courses are conducted by different countries as per their individual norms. Interpreters usually prefer to do the courses conducted by various colleges and institutes of their own countries. However, there are certain standard skills which are imparted to students during the course of this program. Some examples are:-

• Memory retention and note taking skills

• Ability to perform consecutive interpreting

• Imparting problem solving and communication techniques to deal with the typical challenges of providing interpretation services

• Teach simultaneous interpretation and whispered interpretation

• Document translation

These courses typically integrate theory, principles and concepts with practical application and skills development. Their objective is to assist individuals in developing the introductory level competencies, skills, knowledge and attitudes- which are the pre-requisites of being a successful language interpreter. The courses are designed to benefit students who wish to begin a career in interpretation, as well as those already working as interpreters who wish to upgrade their skills and obtain a college degree.