Diploma in Public Service Interpreting - Law (DPSI) (Distance Learning)
This course is aimed at those who want to work as public service interpreters in the legal sector (including the police and the courts). The course prepares students for the Diploma in Public Service Interpreting (DPSI) examinations organised by the Institute of Linguists. The DPSI is the main qualification for interpreters who work in public services, including legal, health and local government sectors.
Course level
Undergraduate
Modes of study
Distance learning
Attendance
One year distance learning with 8-10 compulsory workshop sessions at The University of Northampton (on Saturdays 10am-4pm).
Entry requirements
Applications for 2013-2014 should be sent by Wednesday 28 August 2013.
Applicants must meet a number of essential entry requirements to join the course:
- Applicants must be fluent in English and their other language. They should be able to speak and write in both languages at a level equal to degree standard. We appreciate that some applicants have acquired their knowledge of English or their other language informally through practice and do not hold formal qualifications. This is taken into consideration when assessing applications and we welcome applicants from non-academic backgrounds.
- Applicants must have the ability to correctly understand and accurately explain complicated concepts in both their chosen language and English.
- Applicants must be a resident of the United Kingdom.
- Applicants must demonstrate an understanding of the purpose and responsibilities of public services.
- Applicants must be self-motivated and have a positive attitude to self-development.
- Applicants entering for the Institute of Linguists examinations must be 19+ when sitting the end of year examinations - usually mid June
Non-essential entry requirements
- Previous experience of public service interpreting.
- Completion of an 'Introduction to Interpreting' course, the 'Bilingual Skills Certificate' or another interpreting qualification.
Length of study
One year distance learning
School
Course content
On completion of the course, students will have the skills, knowledge and understanding required to become a qualified public service interpreter working in the legal sector (including work for the police and the courts).
Students will be able to:
- Accurately interpret interviews across the whole range of their chosen public service specialism (Law), but not exclusively as National Register Interpreters can also be asked to interpret health or local government options
- Produce accurate written translations, both into and out of English, on subjects related to the legal sector
- Recall the structure, procedures and associated vocabulary of all areas of the legal services
Special course features
The course prepares students for the Diploma in Public Service Interpreting (Law Option) examinations. These examinations are organised by the Institute of Linguists, the professional body for public service interpreters. On successful completion of the examinations, students are awarded the DPSI qualification by the Institute of Linguists. The DPSI is accredited at NVQ level 6 by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority.
Assessment
Assessment is by way of examinations, organised by the Institute of Linguists and held mid/end of June.
Career opportunities
Successful students can apply for membership of the National Register of Public Service Interpreters (NRPSI). This is the register of qualified interpreters used by the British criminal justices system and other public services to recruit interpreters. Once registered, you will be available for selection to work in the British judicial system, hospitals and other areas. The DPSI is accredited at NVQ level 6 by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority.
Individuals who choose to study towards the Diploma in Public Service Interpreting are not only making the most of the language skills they already have, they are preparing themselves to play an important role within their community whilst also taking the first step on a new career path as a professional interpreter.
Case study
Anthony Adamberry enrolled on the Diploma in Public Service Interpreting (DPSI) course at The University of Northampton in 2009-2010 and was awarded two prestigious awards by the Institute of Linguists. The first award is the Susan Tolman Award for the best results in the DPSI in English Law. The second award is the Susan Tolman Continuing Professional Development Prize as the best overall candidate in the DPSI Interpreting examination.The prize was presented by HRH Prince Michael of Kent GCVO in London on 9th November 2010.
For undergraduate application information please see our how to apply page.
Fees quoted are for home and EU students commencing their course in the academic year 2013/14. Tuition fees are payable for each year of the course. The fees are subject to annual increases in subsequent academic years.
Distance learning fees
Year 1: £850 (plus professional membership and exam fees to be paid direct to the Institute of Linguists)
THIS COURSE IS NOT ELIGIBLE FOR STUDENT SUPPORT FROM STUDENT FINANCE ENGLAND.
Students will be liable for paying their own fees - see details in Notes below.
Scholarships and bursaries
The following scholarships may be applicable:
Notes
Paying your fees - you can choose to pay in full or in three instalments
Pay in full £850 by 1 September 2013 (before you enrol)
Instalments £280 by 1 September 201 (before you enrol)
£285 by 1 December 2013, £285 by 1 February 2014
Pay on-line at E-Payments by debit card or credit card
Please quote your student ID number on the payment transaction
Download our course factsheet [PDF]