Community Interpreting Course

This course is designed for novice interpreters, bilingual individuals, andindividuals who may currently provide interpretation but have no formal training in interpreting protocol and standards of practice. You will receive a certificate for completing this 40-hour course. This is a first step towards National Certification.

This program is designed to be interactive. Students are expected to engage with the curriculum inside and outside of the virtual classroom. Please allocate at least five hours outside of the 40-hour course time for studying and homework. Detailed class expectations will be shared by the instructor at the beginning of the course. Students will be given opportunities to participate in multiple ways, whether orally or in written format, and both at the individual and group level.

This course is not a lecture and active student participation in workshop activities is required. Basic computer skills are needed. The instructor will require you to use online platform features (emojis, icons, yes and no buttons, white boards, break out rooms, etc.). Ability to use word processing software (either Microsoft Word or Google Docs) and e-mail for homework submission is a must. If you require any accommodation, please discuss this with Piedmont Academy staff.

Our online, English course features “LIVE” instruction allowing students to interact, ask questions and communicate with a real person. The integration of live instructors in this course transforms it into a powerful and superior learning platform. By combining flexibility, accessibility, and personalized attention, online courses with our instructors offers an enriched educational experience that aligns with the demands of the contemporary learning environment.

To register for the course, you will first need to complete the form by clicking the Register button above or under the Course Fee section. Then you will need to submit the list of required information below for review before being approved to formally register and participate. This information will only be used to confirm your interest and will not be used for any other purpose.

Prerequisites for the course:

• Be at least 18 years of age
• Possess a high school diploma or the equivalent
• Provide proof of language proficiency in both base and target languages, or
• Provide proof of a 4-year college degree from an accredited institution
• Present a current resume
• Have a reliable internet connection
• Join each session from a laptop or computer (not phone or tablet)
• Use headphones with a microphone

The fee includes 40 hours of online instruction with a “live” instructor and all course materials, which will be delivered electronically. At the end of the course, you will receive a certificate of completion. This course meets the 40-hour training requirement for the two U.S. national certification programs for medical interpreters: the Certification Commission for Healthcare Interpreters (CCHI) and the National Board of Certified Medical Interpreters (NBCMI). This certificate will put you one step closer to certification!