This paper sets out to reflect the basic parameters considered when structuring a specialised translation course, whilst providing enough flexibility for the parameters to be adapted to introductory and advanced courses and to allow for different levels or different translation briefs. These parameters are not rigid, and are open to modification and improvements. The basic parameters discussed in the paper are 1) the professional market; 2) student profiles and expectations; 3) course objectives; 4) choice of fields and 5) text typology.