Non-credit Certificate in Academic English as a Second Language Program (ESL)

Academic ESL Program Information

Our Academic ESL Program has been assisting English learners worldwide since 1991, with over 1,000 students served. Our diverse student body includes refugees, student-visa holders, business professionals, and visiting scholars.

Participants have the opportunity to obtain an ESL proficiency certificate, designed to enhance academic English and study skills for international students and non-native residents.

As an accredited program known for excellence and innovation, our dedicated ESL faculty and staff are committed to equipping students with the skills to excel alongside American peers in academic and vocational settings, as well as in the job market.

Program Objectives

• Read, write, listen, speak to succeed in academic and vocational classes.
• Develop study skills to succeed in academic and vocational classes.

Graduation and Transition Ceremony

In May, we honor students who have completed the advanced level. On the same day as the college graduation, the ESL Graduation Ceremony is held in the morning for friends and family to celebrate your accomplishments. The college administration, including the president and members of the board, as well as college faculty and staff join together to honor the students completing the Adult Education ESL Program and Academic ESL Program.

ESL International Voices Magazine

One of our college values is the appreciation of diversity. This means that you and your cultural experiences are at the heart of the educational mission of Black Hawk College.

While you are in the advanced writing class of the ESL program, you will write and publish an article for our ESL Newsletter. You will decide what to write. You will set up the interviews, and you will work through the writing process. Students have written about customs, political and educational issues, and some very funny stories involving cultural adjustment.

Your voice is heard! Our administration, board members and faculty get a copy of the ESL newsletter each semester. You give the whole college community an understanding of who you are and what you dream about.