Romance Languages

Rome cafe.
Bonjour! Ciao! ¡Hola! Hello!

The Department of Romance Languages at Hunter College offers language, culture and literature courses in French, Italian, Spanish (the target languages and major fields), as well as literature and culture courses in English. Our degrees include the undergraduate major and Masters degrees in French, Italian and Spanish.

We also offer a Romance Languages major that combines knowledge and understanding of two Romance literatures and cultures. Besides these offerings, the Department also offers a major concentration in Spanish-English/English-Spanish Translation and Interpretation, an expansion of its vision of providing professional training within the context of traditional liberal arts.

Romance languages are the group of related languages all derived from later Latin, or Vulgar Latin, within historical times from the 3rd century CE onward and forming a subgroup of the Italic branch of the Indo-European language family.

Why Romance Languages?

Are you ready to embark on a journey of linguistic discovery, cultural immersion, and academic excellence? Look no further than our programs. A major in any one of the Romance Languages offered at Hunter College– French, Italian, Spanish, or Romance Languages– is designed as an in-depth study of the spoken language, its written form, and the literature and civilizations of the people who speak it. Major programs in Romance Languages prepare students for a variety of career opportunities. Many pursue teaching and bilingual education while others pursue interpreting/translating, international affairs, business, communications and the sciences.

Our esteemed faculty members are not only experts in their fields but also dedicated mentors committed to your success. With their guidance, you’ll delve into the intricacies of language structure, literature, history, and contemporary issues, fostering critical thinking and cultural awareness along the way.

But it's not just about textbooks and lectures— our programs emphasize experiential learning opportunities that bring language and culture to life. From immersive study abroad programs to engaging community outreach initiatives, you'll have the chance to apply your knowledge in real-world settings and broaden your global perspective. At Hunter College, diversity is celebrated, and inclusivity is paramount. Our vibrant student body reflects the mosaic of cultures and backgrounds that define the Romance-speaking world, creating a supportive and collaborative learning environment where everyone's voice is valued.

Whether your goal is to become fluent in a new language, pursue a career in international relations, or simply broaden your horizons, the Department of Romance Languages at Hunter College is your gateway to a world of endless possibilities.

Eiffel Tower, Paris, France
Paris, France
Florence Cathedral, Florence, Italy
Florence, Italy
Church in Valladolid, Mexico with colorful paper decorations
Valladolid, Mexico
Multicolored houses in Cartagena, Colombia
Cartagena, Colombia
Ornately decorated ceiling at the Louvre Museum
Paris, France
Sunset at the Catalan National Museum of Art of Catalonia in Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona, Spain
Canals of Venice, Italy with domed buildings in the background
Venice, Italy
Palm trees and mist over green hills in the Valle de Cocora, Salento, Colombia
Salento, Colombia
Paris rooftops
Paris, France
french and spanish grammar books stacked with a white mug on top

Academics

At Hunter College, we pride ourselves on offering a comprehensive and dynamic curriculum in Spanish, French, Italian, Portuguese, and beyond. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, our courses cater to all proficiency levels, ensuring a tailored educational experience for every student.

Meet Our Team

Our faculty members are dedicated to providing students with a deep understanding of language, culture, literature, and more, fostering both academic and cultural growth. With a focus on both linguistic proficiency and cultural fluency, the department prepares students for success in a globalized world.

Image of Maria Hernandez Ojeda
Photo of the Florence Cathedral

Study Abroad

Studying abroad offers a transformative experience that goes beyond academics. Our department hosts several faculty-led programs including the Bridging Words and Worlds Program in Barcelona, Spain and Arles, France; the Italian Renaissance Program in Florence, Italy; and the Literature and Audiovisual Translation Program in the Canary Islands, Spain.