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.
We can help you find the program that fits your passion and interestsErica Mercado, Success Center Specialist
English as a Second Language
Put Your Mind to It
The program serves students who speak a large variety of languages and offers seven levels of courses from novice to advanced college.
Our Language and Literature students seek a deeper understanding on communication with the public through learning another language, translating, interpreting, or writing/publishing. Our programs incorporate skills you can use throughout a variety of different fields; sharpen your skills by utilizing Office Hours, Tutoring, and The Writing Center to grow in your studies and build community as a wolverine.Erica Mercado, Support Specialist
ESL Program Overview
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
What is the difference between noncredit and credit classwork?
The lessons, assignments, tests, homework, and attendance requirements are the same. View Noncredit versus Credit Classes (available in English, Farsi, Chinese, Spanish and Russian translations).
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 |
Noncredit
| Non-Credit Course Numbers | Description |
|---|---|
| 800, 810, 812, 820, 822, 830, 832 |
|
How to Apply
For more information or to get help, email enrollmentservices@sierracollege.edu or call (916) 660-7340.
How to complete the Sierra College online application
How to prepare for class registration
ESL Certificate Program
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 level at which you begin.
Please meet with a counselor to discuss your certificate options.
Looking for something else?
With more than 50 programs in total, something is bound to align with your goals. Find out which one is the right fit for you.
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Other Programs
See more programs in the Language and Literature interest area.
Or, explore all of our interest areas
All Interest Areas