The Department of World Languages and Cultures believes studying languages, literature, and cultural expression is not just part of a liberal arts education; it is essential to understand language communities and our place within them.
We invite you to explore the richness of global cultures and discover the power of multilingual communication. In our classrooms, we encourage curiosity and intellectual growth while broadening our worldviews.
We are committed to innovative instruction and meaningful engagement with diverse cultures. Together, we develop effective communication skills, think critically, and participate responsibly in our interconnected global community. Whether you are learning a language for personal enrichment, academic advancement, or professional goals, we are here to support your academic journey.
We proudly serve one of the most culturally vibrant communities in the country. Through our courses, we equip students with tools to celebrate and understand the cultural diversity of our city and the world. Our faculty bring their lived experiences, expertise, and passion into their classrooms. We do not teach language in isolation; we bring to life the richness of cultures, histories and perspectives carried through language expression.
We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where students explore languages and cultures, build practical communication skills, and develop the cultural literacy and global perspectives needed to thrive personally, academically, and professionally.
Our Mission
We were established in February 1959. Our mission is:
- To instill humanistic values and enhance career options.
- To introduce, develop, and reinforce language skills through classroom work, the language laboratory, and the tutoring resources of the department.
- To focus students’ learning on the cultural aspects of the courses offered in the department, and thus foster not only self-awareness but also appreciation, both of one’s own culture and of other cultures.
- To encourage students from all majors to be active in the college community, the larger community, and as global citizens, through participation in clubs, volunteer activities, and study abroad.
- To prepare students to transfer to a four-year college or university.
Department of World Languages and Cultures
Alexander Lamazares, Chairperson
Alexander.Lamazares@bcc.cuny.edu
Main Office: Colston Hall, Room 201
Miguel Rivera, Administrative Assistant
Phone: 718-289-5633
Email: miguel.rivera@bcc.cuny.edu
Hours
Mon-Fri 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
