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Healing through Language
Tap into the power of words. Put your Spanish-speaking skills to work as a Medical Interpreter.
You may not realize speaking Spanish at home or in your community can be a valuable professional asset in healthcare.
The Spanish Medical Interpreter Training Program prepares Spanish speakers to support communication between patients and healthcare providers. Trained interpreters contribute to more positive healthcare outcomes by bridging communication gaps that result in a better understanding of treatment plans, increased preventive care, and improved care quality.
Employer sponsorship, workforce board funding, and professional development funds may be available.
Attend an Information Session
Join Dr. William Benner for a one-hour live online information session to learn about:
- Career opportunities in medical interpreting
- How the program works
- Certification pathways
- Eligibility requirements and how to enroll
12 PM CST
6 PM CST
6 PM CST
A Healthcare Career You Can Start Quickly
Healthcare systems across the United States need trained bilingual professionals who can help doctors and patients communicate clearly.
Millions of patients rely on Spanish to communicate about their health. When language barriers exist, important medical information can be misunderstood. Medical interpreters help ensure patients clearly understand their care and can communicate effectively with healthcare providers. Healthcare organizations increasingly rely on trained interpreters to improve patient safety and healthcare outcomes.
This program allows bilingual professionals to begin preparing for these roles in just five weeks.
Spanish Medical Interpreter Training Program
This five-week program prepares bilingual Spanish-English speakers for professional roles supporting communication in healthcare settings.
Participants learn interpreting techniques, medical terminology, and professional standards used in hospitals and clinics.
Many people searching how to become a medical interpreter begin with professional training like this program, which prepares participants for national certification exams.
Training prepares participants for certification through:
- Certification Commission for Healthcare Interpreters (CCHI)
- National Board of Certification for Medical Interpreters (NBCMI)
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Career Opportunities
Demand for trained medical interpreters continues to grow as healthcare systems expand language access services.
Medical interpreter positions in the Dallas–Fort Worth region may begin around $60,000 annually depending on employer and experience and may include benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, paid leave, education benefits for continued career advancement.
Many healthcare employers also offer additional compensation for bilingual professionals.
5 weeks
40 hours
July 6 – August 6, 2026
$2,495
Cost includes certification exam fees. Funding may be available through employer professional development funds, employer tuition benefits, workforce board training programs, or military spouse career programs such as MyCAA.
Learner Testimonial
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“This career allows me to give back to the community while doing something I love.”
Spanish has always been a passion of mine, and working as a medical interpreter allows me to use that passion to help people every day.
Today I work as a Spanish interpreter with MasterWord, supporting healthcare providers including Baylor Scott & White hospitals. I also interpret for community organizations, CPS, and local school districts.
Being able to help patients and families communicate and understand each other brings me a lot of joy. At the same time, I’m continuing my education as a nursing student at Texas Woman’s University.
Enam Valerie Pleth-Suka
Certified Spanish Medical Interpreter
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You’ll gain practical skills used in healthcare interpreting:
- medical terminology in Spanish and English
- interpreting techniques for clinical settings
- ethics, confidentiality, and cultural communication in healthcare
- real medical interpreting scenarios
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- individuals who grew up speaking Spanish at home
- healthcare staff communicating with Spanish-speaking patients
- students exploring healthcare careers
- community professionals working with Spanish-speaking families
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I test into the course?
We accept several language proficiency assessments including AVANT testing, ACTFL-approved exams, CLEP, and AP Spanish exams. If your test is not listed, please contact us to review additional options.
How do I know if my Spanish is close to Advanced-Mid proficiency?
Advanced-Mid proficiency means you can comfortably speak and understand Spanish in extended conversations, including discussing complex topics such as healthcare situations. If you think you may be close to this level, a language proficiency test is the best way to see where you stand. Few people develop advanced proficiency in two languages, so do not be discouraged if you are still developing your skills.
What do I need to start working as a medical interpreter?
You can begin with a high school diploma and professional interpreter training. Industry standards include 40 hours of medical interpreter training and preparation for national certification.
What is the difference between a medical interpreter and a bilingual medical professional?
A medical interpreter is trained to interpret between patients and healthcare providers. A bilingual medical professional is a healthcare provider who also holds medical interpreter training and certification, such as a nurse, therapist, technician, or physician.
What are the certifications for a Spanish Medical Interpreter?
The program prepares participants for certification through:
- Certification Commission for Healthcare Interpreters (CCHI)
- National Board of Certification for Medical Interpreters (NBCMI)
Can my training lead to a Bachelor’s degree?
Yes. Those who choose to continue their education may pursue the Texas Woman’s University Bachelor’s degree in Spanish Medical Translation and Interpretation. Participants may be eligible to apply prior learning from this training toward the degree, helping reduce the time and cost required to complete the program. This pathway allows professionals to enter the workforce now and continue advancing their education later.
Can I take this training if I live outside Texas?
Yes. You can participate in the live online training from most U.S. states and territories. Texas Woman’s University participates in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (NC-SARA), which allows the university to offer online education to students in participating states. If you have questions about eligibility in your state, please contact us or review the university’s State Authorization information.
Get Started Today
Ventures programs are non-credit professional and workforce training programs offered through Texas Woman’s University (TWU), either independently or in collaboration with external organizations.
Program structure and partner roles vary by offering. Depending on the program, TWU may provide program administration and institutional oversight, while an approved third-party partner may deliver instruction, student support services, or payment processing. Participation in certain programs may require students to agree to separate terms or agreements directly with the partner organization. TWU is not a party to any such agreement.
TWU does not guarantee the performance of any partner and is not responsible for the acts or omissions of third-party partners or for obligations arising under any separate agreement between a student and a partner.
Program-specific information and applicable terms are provided during enrollment. This webpage is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract or offer.