The field of Translation and Interpreting Studies focuses on research and practice in translating spoken and written language. While each require a specific skill set, there is a good deal of overlap in the linguistic and cultural knowledge required for both. In practical terms, interpreters are often called upon to sight read or translate written materials, and some translators also take on interpreting work. Interpreters and translators work in public service community-based contexts, in private sector companies and industries, and in government across the international community.

The Translation and Interpreting Studies Program at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst continues to expand its objective to introduce students to the inter-related linguistic, social, cultural and ethical issues that are involved in the task of interpreting and translation. Both the undergraduate and graduate programs aim to enlarge students' awareness, at the theoretical and practical level, of the different dimensions of interpreting and translating texts related to, for example, literary, legal, medical, or diplomatic contexts. Students who wish to enroll in the program should have advanced knowledge of at least two languages, one being English, and possess advanced or emerging knowledge of the variety of social and cultural groups associated with them.