English as a Second Language (ESL) for Multilingual English Learners (MEL)

Prepare for college degree programs by improving your academic English.

I am taking, or planning to take credit classes at HCC. How do I know what English language courses I need to take?

Students can explore the admissions and advising pages. For information on International and Immigrant Services/PDSO, contact  Lori Hartley at lhartley@howardcc.edu, Students take a placement test to measure their academic skills in reading and writing, and are placed in the appropriate ENGL ESL course.

The Oral Language Assessment (OLA) is used to exempt students with very advanced oral communication skills from some classes. There are several services that assist English students, including the Language and Pronunciation Lab which provides international students with coaching in oral skills or the Composition and Literature Center which assists with all stages of the writing process.

Is there an accelerated program for ESL students to advance more quickly?

Students with placement scores in designated upper ranges may qualify for HCC’s Accelerated Learning Programs for ESL/MEL students. Talk with an advisor about eligibility and enrollment.

What other options are there at HCC for students who want to improve their language skills but may not need academic, college preparatory classes?   

HCC also offers ESL /MEL courses in the Workforce, Career, and Community Education Division’s English Language Center (WCCE). The ELC offers a variety of full and part-time noncredit English language courses. Students looking to improve their English skills for business, professional, or personal reasons should consider this option.