World Languages
Learning another language opens the door to a world of opportunities — not only marketability in a growing number of careers, but cultural awareness and communication in an increasingly interconnected society. HCC provides pathways to reach your personal and professional goals for learning a new language.
What languages does HCC offer for credit?
A variety of language classes are offered each semester, including American Sign Language, Arabic, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin Chinese, Persian, Russian, and Turkish. Check the current credit class schedule for offerings. HCC students can pursue a degree in the World Languages and Cultures Program with a concentration in one or more of our languages.
Why should I take a language course or major in a language?
Learning a new language enhances many study areas and career fields. It improves communication ability and cultural understanding. Taking a language sequence may help to fulfill Arts and Humanities requirements or Core Electives and make it easier to transfer to another institution. Ask an academic advisor how taking a world language can fit your program and goals.
Which level of a language should I take if I have learned some of the language previously?
If you are pursuing Arabic or Chinese, please find additional information on our website. For Spanish, read the guide to HCC credit Spanish courses to get a sense of each course. Please contact the English and World Languages Division Office to be connected with the correct language coordinator for further guidance about your course level for these or other languages that we offer.
How is learning a language unique at HCC?
Foreign language classes at HCC connect textbook/classroom learning to local and global themes such as the community, the environment, health, and other aspects of our world. These classes are not about workbooks and memorization but about communication, cultures, communities, comparisons, and connections (the 5 C’s of National Foreign Standards) as they relate to daily living.
What resources support language learning at HCC?
- Supplemental instruction for individual or small group practice might include extra lab time or online support within the course.
- Tutoring in the Academic Center for Excellence helps with skills practice.
- Service Learning and Study Abroad Programs provide opportunities for connections, both locally and globally, to use language and experience diverse cultures.
What is STARTALK?
HCC’s STARTALK Program is a federal grant program funded by the National Security Agency (NSA), aimed at increasing the number of American citizens learning crucial-need foreign languages with the goal of increasing the number of advanced-level speakers of foreign languages and increasing the numbers of foreign language teachers and the resources for them. This innovative program not only equips students with valuable language skills but also opens doors to potential career opportunities within the NSA's foreign language jobs sector. For more information, please check our program's main page here.
Does HCC offer noncredit language classes?
Yes, languages for personal enrichment include basic and intensive language courses. Learn a new language or improve existing skills to reach a personal or professional goal. Studying a language boosts memory skills, enhances your ability to multitask, and leads to better career opportunities. Visit HCC's noncredit languages and culture page to learn more. If you have any questions, please email cewdlanguages@howardcc.edu or call 443-518-4679.