Chart Your Course to a Career in Interpreting
Are you 18 years or older, hold a high school diploma or equivalent, and have strong language proficiency in both English and your target language(s) or language(s) other than English (LOTE)?
Interpreting requires not only the ability to speak and understand languages equally, but also the ability to comprehend the nuances of spoken language, and apply cultural context, ethics and standards of practice, and equivalence in idiomatic expressions.
CHIA encourages novice interpreters to pursue the highest levels of education attainable and recommends completing at least a 40-hour training course as a minimum starting point.
Steps Toward Becoming a Professional Interpreter:
- Obtain education and training. Many colleges and private institutes offer 40-hour to 60-hour online interpreter training courses and in-person onsite trainings. Visit our Interpreter Training Programs page for more information.
- Obtain interpreter certification. Certification demonstrates interpreter competency, knowledge of ethics and professional standards as well as a commitment to professional development. Medicine is a complex field and an interpreter has a direct impact on patient safety and medical outcomes. It is important to remember that the professionalization of the interpreting industry also leads to improved workplace conditions.
- Plan for professional development. The interpreting field is constantly evolving. Further, ongoing learning and development are crucial to maintaining patient safety and professional standards. Attending CHIA Conferences, workshops, and other professional development opportunities to enhance your skills is strongly encouraged.