Bachelor’s Degree in Interpreting – a Path to Higher Qualification

Interpreting in the public sector is a profession that carries significant responsibility. For interpreters who want more assignments, professional confidence and better working conditions, formal interpreter education can be a decisive step forward – especially for those aiming to become an authorised interpreter and strengthen their position in the market.

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OsloMet Open Day 2026 – a Natural Place to Start

Many people wondering how to become an interpreter or how to become an interpreter in Norway begin by exploring the available qualification pathways. OsloMet Open Day on Thursday, 5 March 2026 offers a valuable opportunity to do just that. As OsloMet describes the event:

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Open Day gives you a unique opportunity to experience OsloMet and get answers to any questions you may have about student life.

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Mona has worked as an interpreter for many years and has recently started the bachelor’s programme in interpreting in the public sector. She explains that her decision to enrol was about more than formal requirements:

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I have worked as an interpreter for many years and wanted to continue developing professionally. For me, it was not just about obtaining a formal qualification, but about improving the quality of my work.

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She describes the transition from professional practice to academic study as demanding, but positive:

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I am still at an early stage of the programme, but I already find it both educational and challenging in a positive way. The studies require effort, structure and concentration, and I can see that my previous experience as an interpreter helps me understand the academic content better.

I look forward to continuing to develop, both professionally and personally.

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Advice from Mona to Interpreters Considering Education

Mona has clear advice for other interpreters who are considering formal interpreter education:

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My advice to interpreters – and to anyone who wants to work in interpreting – is not to hesitate to continue developing professionally. At one point, I thought that level D was ‘good enough’, but with encouragement from people close to me, I chose to continue building my competence.

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She describes the decision as a long-term investment:

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It has proven to be a safe investment in myself, and I am learning an incredible amount along the way.

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Higher Qualification – More Assignments and Better Conditions

Completing a bachelor’s degree in interpreting in the public sector qualifies graduates for Category B in the National Register of Interpreters. This provides greater trust from clients, more assignments, and often better working conditions.

For many, this is also an important step on the path to becoming an authorised interpreter. From 2027, public sector bodies in Norway will be required to use qualified interpreters, making formal education increasingly important for those who wish to work in the public sector.

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The difference between working as an interpreter without education and being a qualified interpreter is therefore not merely formal – it affects assignment volume, predictability and income.

The bachelor’s programme in Interpreting in the Public Sector at OsloMet is a key qualification programme for interpreters seeking formal competence. The programme provides a thorough introduction to the interpreter’s role, ethical standards and practical requirements, preparing students for professional work in line with current legislation.

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For many, the journey towards further education begins with a single visit. Labbiba, Coordinator at the OsloMet Information Centre, encourages interested interpreters to actively use Open Day:

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Open Day gives you the opportunity to meet students and staff, ask questions and gain a realistic picture of both the programme and student life. It is a good way to find out whether interpreter education is the right choice for you.