Befitting its setting in the nation’s most diverse county, Queens College is linguistically and culturally rich. Our students, who come from over 130 countries, can immerse themselves in a new language (we offer 15) or deepen their knowledge of the one they speak at home. They can also enhance their command of English; our English Language Institute (full-time study) helps people develop the speaking, reading, and writing skills that are essential for college.
Regardless of their backgrounds, all QC undergraduates must complete at least one course—at the sophomore level or higher—in a language other than English, or demonstrate equivalent competence. Comparable proficiency in American Sign Language meets this requirement.
For those interested in advanced study, we offer majors in seven modern languages, as well as Latin and ancient Greek. Less extensive programs are available in half a dozen tongues, including Arabic, Chinese, Irish, and Korean. If the class you want is not offered in a particular semester, you may be able to take it at another CUNY institution in the borough through the Queens Languages Other than English Consortium, which includes QC, LaGuardia Community College, Queensborough Community College, and York College.
Most of QC’s language departments also present classes covering related topics such as history, film, and literature in translation. Clubs and study abroad options give students additional opportunities to improve their comprehension and develop conversational skill. At the graduate level, QC has a literary translation track in its MFA writing program.
