The BHCC Language Institute offers different language courses for different needs
From Intensive English to Spanish for Beginners, the Language Institute provides the right instruction for your language needs.
Intensive English Program
Our full-time Intensive English Program is designed to help international students who need to acquire enough English to go on to full-time college study preparing for a certificate or degree program.
Students will study in blocks of 7-week sessions and can engage in this preparation right before enrolling into either academic ELL or a degree/certificate program. To participate in this program you must first take an English placement test.
BELL or Basic English Language Learning
BELL or Basic English Language Learning instruction is an affordable program offered at convenient times: day, night and weekends, enabling working students to learn English and prepare for college. To participate in this program you must first take an English placement test.
NEW! Italian
Whether you're expanding your academic credentials or enhancing your global communication skills, learning Italian opens doors. Spoken by over 85 million people worldwide, Italian is not only the language of art, music, fashion, and cuisine—it's also a key asset in international business, travel, and cultural exchange.
Our Beginner I Italian course is designed specifically for students and professionals new to the language. As the first in a two-part series, it provides a strong foundation in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. You'll master the Italian alphabet, learn to form simple sentences, respond to everyday greetings and commands, and gain meaningful insights into Italian culture.
With real-world application at its core, this course features clear, goal-oriented lessons and interactive practice activities to ensure you can apply what you learn with confidence—whether you're networking with colleagues, preparing for travel, or pursuing further studies.
Beginning Spanish
Beginning Spanish is designed for people with little or no background in the language, to practice language skills for your job, in your community or for travel. Courses are offered in a convenient weekend schedule.
Beginning French
Beginning French is designed for people with little or no background in the language, to practice language skills for your job, in your community or for travel. Courses are offered in a convenient weekend schedule.
Somerville ESOL Project
Bunker Hill Community College and The Welcome Project offer no-cost English as a Second Language Classes through generous support from the City of Somerville. All levels of English learners are welcome!
Other English Language Programs at BHCC
BHCC offers a range of English Language Learning (ELL) programs to meet the needs of English language learners. Some of these programs offer college credits.