Diploma in Bible Translation (DBT)
Introduction
(Above photo is First Year Students of 1999 in Ethiopis, with Lecturers)
The Word For The World affords those who feel themselves called to Bible translation the opportunity of obtaining practice-oriented training. The program provides training for all the different participants involved in the translation process, viz. prospective Bible translators (including mother-tongue translators), testeers, stylists and church leaders.
The training program is designed in such a way that it not only provides for early involvement in the translation process, but its modular character affords the opportunity for sharpening translation skills as actual translation experience is increased.
The method of training is a combination of formal lectures, self-study under the guidance of a lecturer, and on-the-job training.
The Word For The World awards the Diploma in Bible Translation when the requirements it has set are met. This is seen as more than an academic qualification. It serves as a recommendation for the particular candidate for the task of Bible translation.
The Word For The World maintains high academic standards in its training through a process of moderation and by equipping formally appointed assessors.
Accreditation
The Word For The World has entered into a formal agreement with the South African Theological Seminary, (SATS), an accredited distance learning university in Johannesburg according to which the Diploma in Bible Translation is fully recognized as the equivalent of its own diploma in Biblical Studies. Practically this means the Diploma in Bible Translation will be a 240 credit program on level 5 (1 credit = 10 hours), which is equivalent to two years of university training. This enables WW students that have successfully completed the DBT to continue their studies towards a Bachelor in Theology (BTh 3 year) degree.
After completing a BTh degree, students may enter a Master's degree program. Prior studies and relevant experience may be taken into account in qualifying for the BTh program.
Entrance requirements
- Recommended by a local church as being active and in good standing.
- Grade 12 or an equivalent standard of senior schooling.
- Three years of study at a theological institution approved by The Word For The World. These requirements may be waived on the grounds of practical involvement in a Bible translation project or experience in the church.
- A calling and a passion for Bible translation.
- Fluency in receptor language and ability to use it creatively if it is the mother tongue. Otherwise the willingness to develop a working knowledge of the receptor language.
- Love for receptor language and those who speak it.
- For students that do not meet the full entrance requirements or cannot fulfill all the requirements for the Diploma in Bible Translation, The World For The World may present a certificate course in Bible Translation.
Curriculum
The Diploma in Bible Translation is a practical course that is presented over a number of years. It typically consists of intensive contact modules completed in four weeks per year for four years as well as practical work and assignments done in the time in between.
Description of Subjects
1. Bible Translation (50 credits)
1.1 Principles of Bible Translation (40 credits)
1.2 Bible Translation and Mission (History of Bible Translation)
(10 credits)
2. Practical Bible Translation (40 credits)
2.1 The Process of Bible Translation (10 credits)
2.2 Language Survey (5 credits)
2.3 Translation Practicum (25 credits)
3 Reading and Understanding the Bible (40 credits)
3.1 Biblical Exegesis (20 credits)
3.2 Textual Criticism (5 credits)
3.3 Literary Studies (5 credits)
3.4 Greek and Hebrew (10 credits)
4. Applied Linguistics (60 credits)
4.1 Phonetics and Phonology (12 credits)
4.2 Morphology and Syntax (13 credits)
4.3 Orthography (5 credits)
4.4 Literacy (15 credits)
4.5 Semantics (5 credits)
4.6 Componential Analysis (5 credits)
4.7 Lexicography (5 credits)
5. Language and Community (35 credits)
5.1 Intercultural Communication (20 credits)
5.2 Language Acquisition (5 credits)
5.3 English (4 credits)
5.4 Sociolinguistics (6 credits)
6. Christian Leadership (10 credits)
7. Applied Computer Skills (5 credits)
7.1 Basic Computer Skills and Maintenance
Training of Testers and Stylists
Church leaders are persons with stature in their communities. In an effort to involve them in a translation in one of the languages spoken in their congregations, we also offer a certain amount of training for church leaders.
The curriculum for church leaders comprises introductory courses in Biblical Studies, Linguistics, Intercultural Communication and Bible Translation.
Fees
Tuition fees are payable according to annual budgeting.
Certification
The Diploma in Bible Translation is awarded to Bible translators who have successful completed the following:
- Grade twelve, or an equivalent standard of senior schooling
- A minimum of 2 years study at a theological institution approved by The Word For The World
- The entire training program
Certificates are awarded for the partial completion of the course.
For further inquiry about our training program, email us at info@twftw.org
Last updated: November 13, 2006.