latino woman studying in the library

English For Non-Native Speakers

Enhance your English skills for academic and professional success. Whether you're looking to improve your career prospects or engage with the community, COD offers the following programs for individuals who want to learn the English language:

  • Adult English Language Acquisition (ELA) - Free English classes focused on helping you connect with others, achieve naturalization or enhance employment opportunities.
  • English Language Studies (ELS) - A credit and fee-based English program aimed at earning a degree, advancing your career and learning how to discuss more complex topics in the English language.

Differences between ELA and ELS

Both ELS classes and the ELA program have different requirements and advantages.

Immigration Requirement

  • Open to anyone with the exception of B, F, J and M visas

Previous Education Requirement

  • Enter with any level of education from your native country

Levels of English

  • English
  • Academic and employment preparation skills at all levels of proficiency

Class Advantages

  • Free to eligible participants 
  • Scholarships available upon exiting program
  • Offered at 25+ locations days, evenings and weekends
  • Prepares you to enter college or career training
  • Prepares you for direct employment

Immigration Requirement

Previous Education Requirement

COD recommends that you have completed high school in your native country or in the United States.

Levels of English

If you plan to study a degree or certificate at COD or need English for professional purposes, enroll directly into ELS.

Program Advantages

  • Provides smaller class sizes
  • Targets specific skills (reading, writing, listening, speaking)
  • Prepares you to communicate with high levels of fluency
  • Prepares you for academic level classes

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