Certificate in Language Interpreting
Interpreters serve as a linguistic and cultural bridge between non-English-speaking immigrants and the agencies that provide them with services. In Pierce County, these agencies rely on interpreters to make communication and understanding possible to their clients. The Department of Social and Health Services tests and certifies or registers (depending on the language) interpreters for social service and medical needs. The Administrative Office of the Courts tests and certifies or registers interpreters for the state court system. The federal court system also has an interpreter program. Certified interpreters that have successfully learned the skills can earn $22/hour and up.
Career Opportunities
- Freelance interpreter
- In-house interpreter
- Social service, medical and/or court interpreter
- Conference interpreter
- International business
- Manager or owner of an agency
The Pierce College Certificate in Language Interpreting program prepares you to work as interpreters in the social service, medical, and legal fields. By the time you successfully complete the second quarter of the four quarter program, you will hold at least a Washington State Level I social service interpreter certificate. In the fourth quarter you will participate in a practicum and other professional development activities that will lead you toward additional certification in your area(s) of interest.
The Pierce College Language Interpreter Program is both an I-BEST program and an Opportunity Grant pathway, providing both greater access and academic support to students.
Students that successfully complete this certificate program will be able to:
- Maintain a high level of fluency in all languages in which they work.
- Utilize appropriate tools, resources, and strategies in order to prepare for a particular interpreting assignment.
- Interpret accurately all the oral and written components of an assignment.
- Provide accurate interpreting consistently and maintain focus during each session.
- Conduct an appropriate pre-session meeting with all parties.
- Schedule sessions and practice good time management skills.
- License, market and manage their business.
- Read and apply all contract language.
- Adhere to the appropriate codes of ethics, conduct and confidentiality.
- Assist their clients in navigating social, medical and legal systems.
- Advise the service or care provider of cultural influences which affect the exchange.
For further information on the program, please contact:
Thérèse Marie Mirande, Ph.D.
Certificate in Language Interpreting
Pierce College Fort Steilacoom
9401 Farwest Drive Southwest
Lakewood, WA 98498-1999
253.964.6476
