Closed Captions vs Subtitles: What’s the difference?

In a world increasingly reliant on multimedia content, the role of accurate and accessible video translation has never been more crucial. For those interested in pursuing a Master in Audiovisual Translation, one of the first concepts to grasp is the difference between closed captions vs subtitles. Though often used interchangeably, these two tools serve different purposes and audiences.

In this post, we’ll break down the difference between closed captions and subtitles, explore their real-world applications, and explain how studying at Universidad Europea can launch or accelerate your career in this exciting field.

What are closed captions?

Closed captions are textual representations of all audio elements in a video. This includes not only dialogue, but also non-speech elements such as background noises, sound effects, and speaker identifiers. Captions are designed for viewers who are deaf or hard of hearing, making the entire auditory experience accessible in text format.

For example, if a video features a phone ringing in the background, closed captions might display: [phone ringing]. If a character speaks off-screen, captions may note this by identifying the speaker. These details help viewers understand context, tone, and nuance without relying on sound.

Closed captions are “closed” because they can be turned on or off by the viewer, unlike “open captions”, which are permanently visible.

What are subtitles?

Subtitles, on the other hand, are primarily intended for viewers who can hear but do not understand the language spoken in the video. Subtitles usually translate or transcribe only the spoken dialogue. They do not include background sounds, speaker IDs, or audio cues.

For instance, a French film with English subtitles would simply translate the dialogue into English, without indicating that dramatic music is playing or that a character sighs heavily. Subtitles aim to bridge linguistic gaps rather than hearing impairments.

In some cases, you might come across SDH (Subtitles for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing), which blur the lines by combining elements of both captions and traditional subtitles.

Closed Captions vs Subtitles: Why the Distinction Matters

Understanding the closed captions vs subtitles distinction is vital for anyone aiming to work in audiovisual translation or media localisation. Each serves a different function, audience, and set of accessibility standards. Misusing or misunderstanding the two can lead to poor user experience, exclusion of certain audiences, or even compliance issues, especially in countries with strict accessibility regulations.

Professionals in the field need to be well-versed in the technical, linguistic, and cultural elements involved in producing both captions and subtitles. This includes synchronisation, reading speed, text segmentation, and respect for regional idioms and expressions.

Moreover, as content creators distribute videos across global platforms like Netflix, YouTube, and Disney+, the demand for accurate subtitling and captioning continues to grow. With this growth comes the need for trained experts who understand these nuanced roles.

Why study a master in Audiovisual Translation?

If you're passionate about languages, media, and accessibility, a Master in Audiovisual Translation from Universidad Europea can provide the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in this dynamic industry. But why choose this particular programme?

• Practical, Industry-Relevant Curriculum
  The programme offers hands-on training in subtitling, dubbing, closed captioning, video game localisation, and more. You'll use the same tools and software professionals use, preparing you for immediate entry into the job market.
• Expert Faculty and Industry Connections
  Learn from experienced translators, localisation specialists, and scholars who are deeply embedded in the audiovisual industry. Universidad Europea maintains partnerships with leading media and tech companies, offering students valuable internship opportunities and real-world exposure.
• Global Career Outlook
  Whether you’re aiming to work with international streaming platforms, local broadcasters, or multimedia startups, this master's degree equips you with a globally recognised qualification. Many graduates go on to successful careers as freelance subtitlers, in-house localisation managers, or accessibility consultants.
• Emphasis on Accessibility and Inclusion
  The university places a strong focus on social impact, ensuring students understand the broader role of translation in making media inclusive. You'll graduate not just as a technical expert, but also as a culturally aware and socially responsible professional.

In a marketplace increasingly focused on accessibility and global reach, mastering the intricacies of closed captions vs subtitles is more than just a technical skill—it’s a career advantage. With the right training and guidance, you can help shape the future of inclusive and multilingual media.

As video content continues to dominate digital communication, the need for professionals, such as video editors, who understand the difference between closed captions vs subtitles has never been more urgent. For anyone considering a Master in Audiovisual Translation, this knowledge forms the foundation of your future career. By studying at Universidad Europea, you’ll gain the tools, experience, and confidence to turn your passion into a profession.