The Department of Modern Languages and Literatures offers courses in Filipino, French, Italian and Spanish, leading to the B.A. degree in French Studies, and the B.A. degree in Spanish. It also offers Minors in French, Italian and Spanish, as well as courses leading to the Minor in International Studies. Other languages, such as Chinese, Classical Languages (Greek and Latin), Hebrew, Irish, Japanese and Russian, are available for study in cooperation with Lehman College at Lehman College’s campus. Students enrolled in those courses will follow Lehman College’s catalogue and schedule.

Language and literature courses are oriented towards the achievement of oral and written proficiency while also providing exposure to culture—literature, art and history.

Goals
The goals of the Department of Modern Languages and Literatures are:
1.   to develop students' ability to understand, speak, read, and write in a second  language effectively;
2.   to provide a better understanding of other cultures and other modes of expression and thought, and hence broaden international understanding in general; and
3. to prepare students for graduate studies and careers in education, international business, communication, government, social services, and related fields.