The Level 6 Diploma in Public Service Interpreting (DPSI) – Law is one of the most highly regarded and well recognised qualifications in the language services sector and is open to anyone. It is designed to provide a nationally consistent standard of professionalism for those that want to work as an interpreter in the legal sector for the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) and other public sector organisations.
This degree-level equivalent qualification rigorously tests candidates to prove they have the vocabulary, skills, techniques and ethics to handle the most demanding interpreting assignments in high pressure settings like courts. It specifically assesses the complex practises of simultaneous whispered interpreting, sight translation to and from English, and translation to and from English which are required for this type of work.
Graduates can use the title ‘DPSI’ after their name, making them some of the most sought-after interpreters in the UK.
The qualification is exam-based and can be taken in a wide range of languages (see list in form below – subject to availability). It is available in the following pathways:
There are five units for each pathway which each test the basic linguistic and interpersonal skills, contextual knowledge needed to do the following in a public service legal setting:
These units can be taken individually or at the same time, but the full qualification is only awarded to those who have successfully passed all five units. Certificates are issued within two months of the release of the results.
While there are no entry requirements for the DPSI – Law, it is the responsibility of each candidate to ascertain that they are fully prepared for the exam. Please read the CIOL DPSI Qualification Specification, DPSI qualification overview and Candidate Information before applying.
Completing an approved preparatory course is strongly advised.
To find out about the application process and the languages, exam locations and grants we have available, please fill in the form below:
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