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Career & Academic Pathways >> Language & Communication
Contact Information
Sonia Lizano (Department Chair)
(831) 646-4102
slizano@mpc.edu

For Additional Info
• Download our Info Sheet
 • Visit MPC Spanish
• Connect with a Counselor 

Program Overview

Modern mobility and globalization bring the world’s different cultures and languages together like never before. Translators and interpreters bridge these differences to provide effective, clear communication, ensuring equitable access to public life and community services. MPC’s program includes theories and practices of translating and interpreting, focusing on comprehension of source language texts and accurate expression of content and style in translations.

Job Outlook

Translators and interpreters are in high demand and California offers more jobs than any other state. These professionals work in a variety of settings, including medical offices, schools, government agencies, and businesses. In addition to dual language proficiency, they must use industry terminology, cultural and social communication, and technology to provide in-person and remote services. Localization, which enables access to technology across cultures and languages, is another growing opportunity in the Bay Area’s high-tech industry.

Potential Careers

*Interpreter/Translator
(may require additional training)

$40,600 - $109,270

*Medical Interpreter
(may require additional training)

$59,430 - $97,510

*Localization Project Manager 
(may require additional training)

$60,203 - $112,253

*Mapping/Localization Sr. Engineer 
(may require additional training)

 $64,037 - $121,180

MPC Degrees and Certificates

  • Spanish - Associate in Arts for Transfer (AA-T)
  • Spanish - Associate in Arts (AA)
  • Spanish - Certificate of Achievement (COA)
  • Spanish for Spanish Speakers - Certificate of Achievement (COA)
  • Latinx Studies - Certificate of Achievement (COA)
  • Translation and Interpretation (Spanish/English) - Associate in Arts (AA)

Suggested Course Sequence (AA-T)

Year 1

FALL
 UNITS
 SPRING UNITS
ENGL 1A
 3 SPAN 15
 4
  or ENGL 1AE

SPAN 36

 3
LIBR 50
 1

Area B & Lab

 4

Area A2

 4
 Area D
 3
  MATH 10 or 16 rec
     Hist 20 rec.
SPAN 31
 4
 Elective
 1
SPAN 5, or 10, 18, 22
  
 
  or SPAN 50A, B, C, or D
 3-4
    
       
Total Fall Units
 15-16
 Total Spring Units
 15

Year 2

FALL
 UNITS
 SPRING UNITS
SPAN 32
 4

SPAN 34

 4
SPAN 11, or 12, 33, 40, 45
 4-5

SPAN 11, or 12, 33, 40, 45

 4-5
Area F
 3
 Electives*
 7
 ETNC 18 rec.
*Confirm remaining degree

Electives

 4
 requirements with counseling
       
Total Fall Units
 15-16 Total Spring Units 15-16

This is a suggested sequence of coursework and is one pathway for students to earn their degree/certificate. This is not an official educational plan. A counselor is able to assist you with creating a personalized education plan based on your academic, career, and personal goals. For more information about counseling and up-to-date program requirements, please visit www.mpc.edu/counseling. 

Testimonials 

Ashlin Habes

Ashlin Habes

I am proud to see MPC and the Spanish faculty create courses and an interpretation program that will prepare individuals to enter a career that will impact our community for the better.