While training and certification programs for translation have been thoroughly developed and made standard throughout the nation, there is currently no universal certification for interpreting in the U.S. There are many programs that specialize in interpreting training and, upon completion, offer a degree or certificate, however there is no standard test or official course that an interpreter must pass in order to enter the field (with the exception of the Federal Court Interpreter Testing; see the National Center for Interpretation for more information).

Although there are no specific qualifications, most interpreting positions demand that an applicant have native fluency in at least two languages, and also knowledge of the cultures, institutions, and practices of the countries where the languages are spoken. Furthermore, it is advisable to have a degree in interpreting, or in languages with postgraduate training in interpreting.

Recommended graduate certificate and Masters programs in interpreting include:

Graduate Certificates:

 California State University,  
    Los Angeles 
    -- focus on legal
 New York University 
    -- focus on legal
 San Francisco State University 
    -- focus on legal
 University of California at 
    San Diego
 Wake Forest University

Masters Programs:

 College of Charleston 
    -- focus on legal
 Monterey Institute of
    International Studies 
 Rutgers - The State University of 
    New Jersey 
 University of Arkansas 
    -- no community interpreting