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Universität Hamburg
Master German Social Sciences

Gebärdensprachdolmetschen [Sign Language Interpreting]Sign Language Interpreting

Master of Arts (M.A.)

Universität Hamburg Hamburg · Hamburg

About the Program

The Master's program in Sign Language Interpreting aims to qualify sign language interpreters for court interpreting and conference interpreting. The program addresses the high and growing expectations placed on the profession. Both the necessary working techniques and the theoretical foundations are acquired during the studies. Based on an examination of the specific language use in court, the procedures in investigative proceedings, and the linguistic peculiarities of specialized lectures in both working languages, practical interpreting competence is acquired for use in court and at conferences. The profile area opens up the possibility of gaining research experience in this still young discipline. The program is designed as a part-time course with a standard period of study of six semesters, i.e., only courses worth 20 credit points must be attended per semester (instead of 30 credit points as in four-semester Master's programs).
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The Master's program in Sign Language Interpreting aims to qualify sign language interpreters for court interpreting and conference interpreting. The program addresses the high and growing expectations placed on the profession. Both the necessary working techniques and the theoretical foundations are acquired during the studies. Based on an examination of the specific language use in court, the procedures in investigative proceedings, and the linguistic peculiarities of specialized lectures in both working languages, practical interpreting competence is acquired for use in court and at conferences. The profile area opens up the possibility of gaining research experience in this still young discipline. The program is designed as a part-time course with a standard period of study of six semesters, i.e., only courses worth 20 credit points must be attended per semester (instead of 30 credit points as in four-semester Master's programs).

Which Professions Does This Program Open Up?

Related profession searches from Bundesagentur für Arbeit (BERUFENET) data:

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Subjects / Topic Areas

Sign Language Interpreting

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How do I apply to Gebärdensprachdolmetschen [Sign Language Interpreting] at Universität Hamburg?

Most international applicants apply via uni-assist (document verification + APS for some countries). Prepare your secondary/Bachelor diploma, transcripts, language certificate (DSH/TestDaF or IELTS/TOEFL), motivation letter and CV. Non-EU students also need a Sperrkonto (~11,904 EUR/year) for the visa.

  1. Check requirements — Verify your degree is recognised + meet language/grade thresholds.
  2. Get language certificate — TestDaF / DSH for German programmes, IELTS / TOEFL for English.
  3. Submit via uni-assist (non-EU) — Document review + APS if your country requires it (China, India, Pakistan, Vietnam, etc.).
  4. Apply directly or via uni portal — Some universities accept direct applications — check the official programme page.
  5. Open Sperrkonto + apply for visa — After admission, deposit 11,904 EUR, get health insurance, book embassy appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Gebärdensprachdolmetschen [Sign Language Interpreting] at Universität Hamburg

Is Gebärdensprachdolmetschen [Sign Language Interpreting] at Universität Hamburg taught in German or English? ▼

This Master programme is taught in German. Make sure to check the language requirements (e.g. TestDaF, DSH, IELTS or TOEFL) before applying.

How much does the Gebärdensprachdolmetschen [Sign Language Interpreting] programme cost? ▼

No tuition fee (only semester contribution). International students should also budget around 800–1000 EUR/month for living costs in Germany.

What are the admission requirements for Gebärdensprachdolmetschen [Sign Language Interpreting] at Universität Hamburg? ▼

Typical requirements include: a recognised secondary/undergraduate degree, proof of language proficiency (German), and (for non-EU applicants) a uni-assist application plus financial proof (Sperrkonto ~11.904 EUR/year).

When is the application deadline? ▼

Application deadlines vary: winter semester usually closes on 15 July, summer semester on 15 January. Always confirm the exact deadline on the official university website.

Can I work in Germany while studying Gebärdensprachdolmetschen [Sign Language Interpreting]? ▼

Yes. International students may work up to 140 full days / 280 half days per year without additional permission. After graduation you can apply for an 18-month job-seeker permit.

How do I apply to Universität Hamburg — directly or via uni-assist? ▼

Most German universities accept international applications through uni-assist for document verification. Some unis accept direct applications — check the programme page on the official site.

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