Courtney Bailey,
College of Arts and Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, The United States of America
This presentation explores the unique structure, strengths, and challenges of English Translation Studies undergraduate programs in Iran, drawing comparisons with similar programs in other Anglophone-minority and non-Anglophone countries. Through an analysis of curriculum design, faculty insights, and graduate feedback, the study identifies key areas where these programs excel, such as fostering cultural competence and linguistic precision, as well as critical gaps, including limited exposure to real-world translation technologies and evolving market demands. With the rapid development of artificial intelligence and machine translation tools, the future of English Translation Studies programs worldwide is at a crossroads. This presentation examines the impact of AI on the field and offers actionable recommendations for integrating technological advancements into academic training. Additionally, it provides practical advice for students pursuing translation studies, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and lifelong learning. By presenting a synthesis of graduate and faculty feedback, this study aims to inspire meaningful improvements to existing programs and empower individuals overseeing program planning, curriculum design, and student progression to prepare students and faculty for the evolving demands of global translation work. The session concludes with a forward-looking discussion on how translation studies can remain relevant and impactful in the digital era.
Keywords: English Translation Studies, Higher Education, Translation Curriculum, Technological Innovation, Iran
The above abstract is a part of the article which was accepted at The 10th International Conference on Languages, Linguistics, Translation and Literature (WWW.TLLL.IR), 1-2 February 2025, Ahwaz.