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Department of Romance Languages & Literatures
The Department of Romance Languages and Literatures at Harvard offers undergraduate and graduate courses in the French and Francophone, Italian, Portuguese and Luso-Brazilian, Spanish and Latin American literary traditions.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Students
Concentrators in Romance Languages and Literatures go on to a wide variety of careers in fields where world experience, flexibility in dealing with the unfamiliar, strong analytical and communicative skills, and creativity are valued.
Graduate Students
Combining a broad knowledge of each literature through diverse course offerings and specialized research working one-on-one with faculty, our graduate programs nurture students' individual interests.
Language Programs
The Department of Romance Languages and Literatures offers language courses in French, Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish at the beginning, intermediate, and advanced levels.
I didn't arrive at Harvard intending to concentrate in RLL. But after taking my first French class freshman year, I immediately felt welcomed into the department with open arms. As a double concentrator in RLL and Economics, I've been able to complement my interests in both fields through an internship at the World Bank, where I got to use my French skills in a professional setting. My French literature courses have also pushed me to grow personally and intellectually as a stronger reader, writer, observer, and thinker--skills I know will serve me in any future field. That being said, what truly makes this department special is the people. The support that RLL faculty offer to students is one of a kind. I have felt a constant, individualized support system helping me navigate each step of the way, from making a 4-year course plan to preparing to write a senior thesis. No matter how busy college gets, the RLL department is always there to remind you: you've got this!