Skip to Navigation
Skip to Content

Cross-Cultural Interpreting Services

A Program of Heartland Alliance

Subscribe to Heartland Alliance Updates

Get news and event invitations.

Interpreter Training


I Train for Human RightsProfessionally Trained

Our Chicago-based training team focuses on the role and ethics of the professional interpreter by utilizing intensive role-playing exercises to prepare students for handling such issues as client confidentiality, cultural barriers, and ethical dilemmas.

Each course emphasizes the facilitation of communication between two people who speak different languages.

Course Prerequisites

  1. Eighteen years or older
  2. Bilingual in English and a second language
  3. Have a least a high school diploma or equivalent
  4. Pass a language assessment exam
  5. Be interesed in facilitating linguistic and cultural communications between provider and client

Next Medical Interpreter Training Schedule  (each session is Saturday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.)

  • Tuesday, May 4
  • Thursday, May 6
  • Tuesday, May 11
  • Thursday, May 13
  • Tuesday, May 18
  • Thursday, May 20
  • Tuesday, May 25
  • Thursday, May 27
  • Tuesday, June 1
  • Thursday, June 3

A 40+ hour intensive course focuses on the following:

  • Role of the Interpreter
  • Modes of Interpreting
  • Code of Ethics
  • Cultural Competency
  • Terminology (appropriate to the given field)
  • Ethical and Cultural Issues
  • Effective Communication
  • Advocacy and Professionalism
  • Role-play

Customized Training

Consultation and training fees are customized for the group size and location.