English as a Second Language (ESL)
We teach English to students from many countries and who speak many different languages. Classes are small, so you can communicate with your professors and other students. There are courses for students with basic to advanced skills, and some are tuition-free, non-credit courses.
Certificates in English as a Second Language
Put Your Mind to It
The program serves students who speak a large variety of languages and offers five levels of courses from novice to advanced college.
The ESL program prepares students to meet their language, educational, and career goals. In addition, students learn about American culture and experience college through events and workshops that help students feel connected to the college community.Erica Mercado, Support Specialist
ESL Program Overview
Which classes should I take?
This depends on your goals and how much time you have to study. Your class level will depend on how much experience you have reading, writing, and speaking in English. Talk to a counselor to decide which classes to take.
How do I earn an ESL certificate?
- Students can earn ESL certificates at intermediate-high and advanced levels.
- Students may not need to take all the classes. This will depend on the class level at which you begin.
- Please meet with a counselor to discuss your certificate options.
What is the difference between noncredit and credit classwork?
Learn the differences between Noncredit and Credit Classes (available in English, Farsi, Chinese, Spanish and Russian translations). The following course numbers are non-credit and tuition-free: 800, 810, 812, 820, 822, 830, 832. View Class Level Chart.
How to Apply
For more information or to get help, email enrollmentservices@sierracollege.edu or call (916) 660-7340.
Review our How-to instructional articles:
Understanding the ESL Classes and Levels
View ESL Program Overview (available in English, Farsi, Chinese, Spanish and Russian translations).
Course Levels
We offer five levels of courses from novice to advanced.
The letter at the end of the course number refers to the type of skills you will be learning. For example, ESL 20C is a composition class.
C = Composition (Reading & Writing)
S = Skills for Success
O = Oral Skills (Listening & Speaking)
G = Grammar
P = Pronunciation
T = Technology
F = Film
| ESL Course Level | Courses |
|---|---|
| Advanced | 20C, 24P, 25C, 25G, 25L, 30C |
| Intermediate-High | 530C, 530S, 530O, 532G 830C, 830S, 830O, 832G |
| Intermediate | 520C, 520S, 520O, 522G, 522F, 522P, 522T 820C, 820S, 820O, 822G, 822F, 822P, 822T |
| Novice-High | 510C, 510S, 510O, 512G, 512P, 512T 810C, 810S, 810O, 812G, 812P, 812T |
| Novice | 800 |
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