ONLINE GOVERNMENT & NATIONAL SECURITY INTERPRETER TRAINING: QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
This Q&A section is designed for prospective students interested in the Online Government & National Security Interpreter Training Program.
Government and National Security Interpreter Training: Program Overview and Structure
Q: What is the Government & National Security Interpreter Training Program?
A: It is a 6-week, 30-hour online certificate training program designed to provide participants with the essential skills and specialized vocabulary needed to become competent interpreters working for federal government and national security agencies in the U.S.
Q: What is the format of the Government & National Security Interpreter Training Program course?
A: The Government & National Security Interpreter Training Program course uses a Hybrid Training Program structure, integrating two main components:
1. Live Online Classes: Interactive, real-time sessions with experienced language coaches for 2 hours each week. These focus on interpreting practice and terminology study tailored to your specific language group.
2. Self-Paced Online Study: Flexible, independent study where you access course materials, complete assignments, and reinforce your knowledge at your own pace.
Q: How long does the Government & National Security Interpreter Training program last?
A: The program is designed to be completed in 6 weeks.
Q: When are the live classes held?
A: Live classes with instructors are held once a week on Mondays from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM Eastern Standard Time (EST). The self-paced study component can be completed at any time.
Government and National Security Interpreter Training:
Language Requirements and Eligibility
Q: What are the prerequisites to enroll in this program?
A: To be considered for the program, you must meet the following requirements:
• Fluency and proficiency in written and oral English.
• Fluency and proficiency in at least one other language besides English (the target language).
• A High School diploma or equivalent.
• Successful completion of the required Language Assessment Pre-test.
• Ability to communicate effectively.
Q: What languages is the training offered in?
A: The program is currently offered in 7 languages:
• Arabic
• Chinese (Mandarin)
• Haitian Creole
• Portuguese
• Russian
• Spanish
• Farsi
Q: Is there a language test required for admission?
A: Yes. Applicants must pass an Oral Language Assessment Pre-Test to demonstrate fluency and literacy skills in both English and their target language. This is a 15-minute phone test usually scheduled about two weeks before the course begins.
Registration and Costs
Q: What is the total cost of the program?
A: The total cost of the program is $390, broken down as follows:
• $50 Non-refundable Registration Fee (to reserve your seat).
• $340 Course Fee (due only after passing the language assessment).
Q: What is the registration process?
A: The steps for registration are:
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STEP 1: Register online and pay the $50 non-refundable registration fee to reserve your seat.
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STEP 2: A language coach will contact you to schedule the 15-minute phone Language Assessment Pre-test.
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STEP 3: If you pass the pre-test, you will be required to pay the $340 course fee and sign the Student Participation Agreement prior to the first class.
Q: Is the $50 registration fee refundable?
A: No, the $50 registration fee is non-refundable. It secures your seat and covers the cost of the language assessment.
Completion and Career
Q: What kind of certification do I receive upon completion?
A: Upon successfully completing the program, you receive a Certificate of Training.
Q: How is the program assessed?
A: Students take Final Oral and Written Tests online during Week 6, immediately following the completion of the course material.
Q: What kind of work can I do after taking this course?
A: This training prepares you to interpret and translate for federal government and national security agencies in the U.S. This involves understanding the specific vocabulary and cultural context of fields such as:
• Diplomatic communications
• Military communications
• Intelligence reports
• Technical, legal, and immigration documents
• Public and healthcare information
Technical Information
Q: What supplies are required for the online course?
A: You must have:
• A computer with a reliable internet connection.
• A computer microphone and speakers (a headset is strongly recommended).
• The free version of the Zoom application.
• Required textbooks (which must be purchased online separately).
Q: Is the course entirely online?
A: Yes, the course is entirely online, combining virtual live sessions and self-paced study.