High School
A high school diploma (or equivalent) is usually required for candidates to sit for qualifying examinations to serve as court interpreters and translators. Recommended classes include English, foreign language, communications, and to the extent available, classes in the law.
Postsecondary Education
Postsecondary education is not mandatory, though qualifications in many states, such as California, require interpreters to “display wide general knowledge characteristic of what a minimum of what two years of general education at a college or university would provide,” according to the National Center for State Courts.
Some court interpreters and translators have bachelor's degrees in specific languages, linguistics, or criminal justice. Degree programs in translation are becoming more commonplace.
In recent years, the number of colleges that offer bachelor's degree in court interpreting has increased. Some colleges are even offering graduate degrees and certificates. For example, the University of Charleston, South Carolina, offers a masters of arts in bilingual interpreting for English-Spanish and a graduate certificate in bilingual legal interpreting.
Certification
Some colleges and universities—such as San Diego State University, Florida International University, and the University of Louisville—offer certificates in interpreting or translation (including specialization in legal services). Contact schools in your area to learn what types of certificate programs are available.
Other Education or Training
The federal government, as well as individual states and the National Center for State Courts, provide training, workshops, and continuing education to those seeking or maintaining employment as court interpreters. Some states are currently considering mandating continuing education for those employed as interpreters.
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