Postgraduate taught 

Translation Studies MSc/PgDip/PgCert

Subtitling Film and TV MODLANG5034

  • Academic Session: 2024-25
  • School: School of Modern Languages and Cultures
  • Credits: 20
  • Level: Level 5 (SCQF level 11)
  • Typically Offered: Semester 2
  • Available to Visiting Students: No
  • Collaborative Online International Learning: No

Short Description

Contributing chiefly to the SMLC Translation Studies programme, this course explores the role of subtitling in the translation industry and the professional environment in which subtitlers work, exploring the role of translation in film and TV, and providing students with both theoretical and practical knowledge. Students will also be trained to use subtitling software, such as WinCaps, preparing them to work in the field of Audiovisual Translation (AVT) by helping them to develop advanced technical and linguistic skills.

Timetable

11 x 1 hour seminars.

11 x 1 hour practical workshops

Excluded Courses

None

Co-requisites

None

Assessment

Either:

The subtitling of one 10-minute film or TV extract using industry-standard subtitling software and following established subtitling conventions, accompanied by a 2,500 word essay that engages with the course materials studied throughout the eleven weeks and applies this to the chosen exercise.

Or:

A 5,000-word essay that engages with the course materials studied throughout the eleven weeks and applies the knowledge gained to a new case study, researched in depth by the student.

Course Aims

This course aims to:

■ provide students with a strong awareness of the linguistic, theoretical and professional issues involved in the audiovisual translation industry

■ examine a range of different case studies from television and film across the world

■ consider the implications of globalisation and developing technology upon the subtitling profession

■ provide students with practical subtitling skills using relevant subtitling software

■ explore and illustrate the use of Audiovisual Translation Studies reference and support materials

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

By the end of this course students will be able to:

■ evaluate the role of subtitling in the translation industry and the discipline of Translation Studies

■ compare and contrast a selection of global case studies in light of Audiovisual Translation Studies theories

■ appraise the application of translation strategies to the process of audiovisual translation, in light of subtitling restrictions

■ employ and manage relevant software effectively for the subtitling of film and TV programmes

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.