Education

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• working towards this role
• a trainee scheme

University

You'll need a degree or level 6 award in both British Sign Language and interpreting.

You would also need an approved qualification in interpreting like:postgraduate or master's degree in interpreting or translation; Level 6 Diploma in Sign Language Interpreting

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
• a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

For more information

• equivalent entry requirements
• student finance for fees and living costs
• finance for postgraduate courses
• university courses and entry requirements

Work

You could work for an organisation that supports deaf people, or in a school or college, for example, as an educational support assistant. You could then do your British Sign Language qualifications on the job to qualify as an interpreter.

Volunteering and work experience

Getting involved in clubs or centres for deaf people is a good way of getting experience and may give you the opportunity to get relevant training.

Other routes

You could qualify by registering as a trainee sign language interpreter (TSLI). To register, you'll need:

• a degree or level 6 award in your first language - either English or British Sign Language (BSL)
• a minimum of level 4, above A level standard, in your second language - either English or BSL

Requirements and restrictions

You'll need to:

• pass enhanced background checks

More information

Career tips

Many interpreters work freelance or through agencies and often get work through recommendations of people who have already used their services.

It is useful if you have an understanding of deaf people's needs and the challenges that they face.

Further information

You can find out more about becoming a British Sign Language interpreter from:Signature; Royal Association for Deaf People; British Deaf Association; Royal National Institute for the Deaf (RNID)

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You could teach and assess others, sign at theatre productions or television performances, or move into research.

You could also become self-employed and work freelance.