From Basics to Career Success: Tailored ESL Programs for You!
From Basics to Career Success: Tailored ESL Programs for You!
Want to learn English but don’t know where to start? Well, you’ve come to the right place! Our English Language Programs will help you build up your language skills so you can move one step closer to mastering the language.
Create your base with our English as a Second (ESL) Program. Alternatively, focus more on job success with our Vocational ESL (VESL) program. Ultimately, our curriculum will support you every step of the way towards the moment you GRAB Your FUTURE!
Programs Highlights
Programs Highlights
Columbia College’s language programs include ESL, which is only offered in person, and the highlight, VESL. Though VESL is separated into both hybrid and online programs, each program has its own benefits. Essentially, you can view the highlights of each program below:
ESL
Immerse yourself in English and American culture with our ESL program! Enjoy in-person classes with experienced instructors, interactive sessions, and cultural outings in the Washington, DC area. Designed for F-1 students, our program provides a supportive academic environment to help you build confidence in your English skills and navigate new cultural experiences.
ESL
Experience the benefits of in-person learning with our ESL program! Engage directly with instructors and peers while enjoying campus life and cultural immersion through field trips in the Washington, DC Metropolitan Area. Designed for international (F-1) students, our program provides a rich academic environment to enhance your English skills and cultural experience.
Online VESL
Learn English on your schedule with our Online VESL program! Offering the same curriculum as traditional VESL, it provides flexibility with fully online classes. Each student receives a tablet to enhance learning and participates in homeroom sessions for more interaction. Plus, our dedicated hotline ensures you’re supported every step of the way.
VESL
Take your English to the next level with our Vocational ESL programs! Choose between In-Person VESL, offering advanced courses tailored to higher education and career preparation with personalized support, or Online VESL, which provides the same comprehensive curriculum, flexible schedules, and digital learning tools. Both options include exclusive events and career-focused resources to help you succeed.
VESL
Take your English skills to the next level with our VESL program! Featuring an advanced curriculum tailored for higher education, it also includes career-focused courses to prepare you for professional success. Gain access to exclusive events and personalized guidance from Columbia College’s Student Services Department to support your academic and career goals.
English Programs
here’s what our students are saying:
Tysons Corner, Hyatt, culinary career, future Chef, career path
“I came here as a refugee and wanted to learn English. I studied English fully online at Columbia College because I needed to take care of my 4 kids. The grant I received from FAFSA and the scholarship from Columbia College allowed me to study at almost no cost. After graduating and getting a certificate, I landed my first job in the United States. I strongly recommend Columbia College’s English programs!”
Gita Akhgar, Online VESL Graduate
“This online program improved my English a lot! I studied at home even as a busy mom since I could study whenever I had time. I’m a shy person who was afraid of speaking in public but after taking this course, I’m able to communicate with others in English. I applied for financial aid and with the federal grant and school scholarship, I could study English for 60 weeks without paying any tuition out of my pocket. ”
Naw Wah, Online VESL Graduate
About the programs:
About the program:
English Programs
This course offers an exceptional opportunity to acquire the necessary technical and communication skills to enhance career development in the field. Thus, with our associate degree, you’ll benefit from extensive coverage of knowledge that will equip you with the tools needed to thrive in the business world.
*The Cambridge Michigan Language Assessments (CaMLA) is a nationally recognized English language exam that measure skills in listening, reading, writing, and speaking. The result of this test will tell in which level our students will be placed when they start their English lessons.
English Programs
The programs are segmented into 3 tiers across 5 facets of the English language. Specifically, these tiers include reading, writing, listening, speaking, and grammar. To clarify, the program focuses on 1 level each session. Each session lasts 10 weeks with each tier separated into 2 halves, resulting in 6 levels. Thus, Students will be able to build their skills towards fluency over 60 weeks (about 1 year and 2 months).
While the beginner levels introduce students to the English language, the intermediate levels strive to move towards more technical applications of the English language. This includes academic reading and document creation. Finally, the advanced levels serve to refine and polish the foundation that students have built over the previous sessions. This effectively prepares them for entry into any college in the United States for further learning. There, they can develop the skills needed to enter the workforce.
Additionally, VESL students have the option of taking courses in the high advanced level. This is where they can focus more on workplace communications.
Throughout the program, students will also learn more about American culture so they can adjust more seamlessly to life in the U.S.
English Programs
- Specific courses can be found within the course catalog
Business Administration Associate Degree
The programs are segmented into 3 tiers across 5 facets of the English language. Specifically, these tiers include reading, writing, listening, speaking, and grammar. To clarify, the program focuses on 1 level each session. Each session lasts 10 weeks with each tier separated into 2 halves, resulting in 6 levels. Thus, Students will be able to build their skills towards fluency over 60 weeks (about 1 year and 2 months).
While the beginner levels introduce students to the English language, the intermediate levels strive to move towards more technical applications of the English language. This includes academic reading and document creation. Finally, the advanced levels serve to refine and polish the foundation that students have built over the previous sessions. This effectively prepares them for entry into any college in the United States for further learning. There, they can develop the skills needed to enter the workforce.
Additionally, VESL students have the option of taking courses in the high advanced level. This is where they can focus more on workplace communications.
Throughout the program, students will also learn more about American culture so they can adjust more seamlessly to life in the U.S.
Business Administration Associate Degree
- Specific courses can be found within the course catalog
Accreditation & Placement
Columbia College’s ESL Program has been accredited by the Commission on English Language Program Accreditation (CEA) and agrees to uphold the CEA standards for English Language programs and institutions. The CEA is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as a nationally recognized accrediting agency for English language programs and institutions in the U.S. For more information about the details of standards, please refer to this link and CEA’s Complaint policy can be found here.
Before starting the program, students are also administered the nationally recognized Cambridge Michigan Language Assessments (CaMLA) for course placement. This helps Columbia College determine the appropriate level for them to enter for the most optimal learning experience.
Columbia College’s Students Services Department offers individual guidance towards student’s careers and an extensive database of job opportunities with our renowned partners, resulting in a high employment rate of our graduates.
Tuition & Financial Aid
We believe in making education accessible to all, and that starts with transparent pricing. Our program’s total cost is just the beginning, with numerous opportunities for scholarships, financial aid, and veterans’ benefits available to support you throughout your academic journey.
ESL | VESL | Online VESL
- *Additional costs may apply
Financial Aid
Financial Aid & Veterans’ Benefits may be available to those who qualify. CLICK HERE to check if you qualify for it.
Presidential Scholarships are also offered. CLICK HERE to check the available scholarships
Additional costs
Application fee: $100 | Intensive TOEFL Prep (Optional) – $1,235 | Textbooks – Vary
