ESL Class Schedule
The English as a Second Language (ESL) Program offers basic classes, intensive classes, professional English classes, and online classes.
How to Register
Fall 2026 ESL CLASSES
No Classes:
* Sep 5–7 Labor Day
* Nov 25–29 (Thanksgiving Recess)
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Pre-Beginning ESL Classes
In-Person - Class meets in person once or twice a week.
Scheduled Zoom - Class meets on Zoom
Flexible Online - Class is entirely on Canvas. Do course work whenever you have time. No Zoom meetings.Community English Pre-Beginning A/B
This class teaches life skills and focuses on listening and speaking skills. Some reading, writing, and grammar skills will also be taught. This is a practical class for people who speak no English. Free tuition; $60 material fee.
Mon, Wed 9:35 a.m.–12 p.m. Aug 31–Dec 2 (A) (In–Person)
Mon, Wed 7:15–9:15 p.m. Aug 31–Dec 2 (A) (Scheduled Zoom)
Tue, Thu 7–9:15 p.m. Sep 1–Dec 3 (A/B) (In–Person)Life Skills English Pre-Beginning A/B
This is a class for students who speak no English. Learn basic words and grammar to help adapt to life in the U.S. Free tuition; $60 material fee.
Sat 9 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Aug 29–Dec 5 (A/B) (In–Person)Intensive English Pre-Beginning A
This intensive course is for students who know little or no English. Work on reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills in one class. $320.
Mon, Wed 9:35–11:50 a.m. Aug 31–Dec 2 (In–Person)Vocabulary and Reading Comprehension Pre-Beginning A
Read stories to improve reading, speaking, and writing skills. Also learn many new vocabulary words. Activities include spelling, oral reading practice, and discussion. $320.
Mon, Wed 12:30–2:45 p.m. Aug 31–Dec 2 (In–Person)Reading and Writing Pre-Beginning A
This is a class for students who speak no English and need to learn to read and write. Students will study vowels, consonants, and basic vocabulary. Free tuition; $60 material fee.
Mon, Wed 7–9:30 p.m. Aug 31–Dec 2 (In–Person)
Interactive Speaking Pre-Beginning A
Get started talking and using correct spoken English in everyday conversations! Increase vocabulary and improve pronunciation through active practice and lots of feedback. $320.
Tue, Thu 12:30–2:40 p.m. Sep 1–Dec 3 (In–Person) -
Level 1 – Beginning I ESL Classes
In-Person - Class meets in person once or twice a week.
Scheduled Zoom - Class meets on Zoom
Flexible Online - Class is entirely on Canvas. Do course work whenever you have time. No Zoom meetings.Community English 1A
Learn every day, practical English and develop skills in listening, speaking, reading, writing, and grammar. Free tuition; $60 material fee.
Mon, Wed 9:35 a.m.–12 p.m. Aug 31–Dec 2 (In–Person)
Mon, Wed 7:15–9:15 p.m. Aug 31–Dec 2 (Scheduled Zoom)
Tue, Thu 7–9:15 p.m. Sep 1–Dec 3 (In–Person)Life Skills English 1A
Improve the English skills needed for everyday life and work in this course for beginning students. Free tuition; $60 material fee.
Sat 9 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Aug 29–Dec 5 (In–Person)Intensive English 1A
Work on all English skills: listening, speaking, reading, writing, and grammar in one class. The curriculum is academic and challenging yet practical. $320.
Mon, Wed 9:35–11:50 a.m. Aug 31–Dec 2 (In–Person)Interactive Speaking 1A
Get started talking and using correct spoken English in everyday conversations! Increase vocabulary and improve pronunciation through active practice and lots of feedback. $320.
Tue, Thu 12:30–2:40 p.m. Sep 1–Dec 3 (In–Person)
Speaking for Success 1A
Improve your speaking in a fun, active environment. Build confidence and fluency by practicing speaking with clear pronunciation, different grammar structures, and vocabulary words. This is an interactive class with group work and feedback from your teacher. $320.
Mon, Wed 7–9 p.m. Sep 9–Dec 2 (In–Person)
Pronunciation Improvement 1
Practice English pronunciation in this fun class! Use poems, dialogues, videos, and games to learn pronunciation rules. You will record yourself during class and for homework; your teacher will give you feedback and suggestions to help improve your pronunciation. $320.
Tue, Thu 9:35–11:45 a.m. Sep 1–Dec 3 (In–Person)
Vocabulary and Reading Comprehension 1A
Read interesting short stories and books to improve reading, speaking, and writing skills. Also learn many new vocabulary words. Activities include spelling, oral reading practice, and discussion. $320.
Mon, Wed 12:30–2:45 p.m. Aug 31–Dec 2 (In–Person)
Reading and Writing Literacy A
This class is for students who speak some English but do not read or write. Students with limited education in their first language or who come from a language system with a different alphabet would benefit from this class. Free tuition; $60 material fee.
Mon, Wed 12:30–2:50 p.m. Aug 31–Dec 2 (In–Person)
Sat 9 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Aug 29–Dec 5 (In–Person)Reading and Writing 1A
This is for students who already know the alphabet and sounds in English but need practice with spelling, reading, grammar, and basic writing of short phrases and sentences. For help with beginning literacy, students should start with a Reading and Writing Literacy class. Free tuition; $60 material fee.
Mon, Wed 12:30–2:50 p.m. Aug 31–Dec 2 (In–Person)
Mon, Wed 7–9:30 p.m. Aug 31–Dec 2 (In–Person)
Sat 9 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Aug 29–Dec 5 (In–Person)Interactive Grammar 1A
Learn grammar rules and get lots of practice using them while talking and writing in this class. $320.
Tue, Thu 9:35–11:45 a.m. Sep 1–Dec 3 (In–Person)
Writing and Grammar 1A
Learn sentence writing, short paragraph writing, new vocabulary, grammar, and spelling in one class. Perfect for beginning students who want to start developing college writing skills. $320.
Mon, Wed 9:35–11:50 a.m. Aug 31–Dec 2 (In–Person)There are more Level 1 classes in the English for Work section.
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Level 2 – Beginning II ESL Classes
In-Person - Class meets in person once or twice a week.
Scheduled Zoom - Class meets on Zoom
Flexible Online - Class is entirely on Canvas. Do course work whenever you have time. No Zoom meetings.Community English 2A
This practical class teaches community and workplace English. Listening, speaking, reading, writing, and grammar skills will be taught. Free tuition; $60 material fee.
Mon, Wed 9:35 a.m.–12 p.m. Aug 31–Dec 2 (In–Person)
Mon, Wed 7:15–9:15 p.m. Aug 31–Dec 2 (Scheduled Zoom)
Tue, Thu 7–9:15 p.m. Sep 1–Dec 3 (In–Person)Life Skills English 2A
Improve the English skills needed for everyday life and work in this class for upper-level beginning students. Free tuition; $60 material fee.
Sat 9 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Aug 29–Dec 5 (In–Person)Intensive English 2A
Improve all English skills: listening, speaking, reading, writing, and grammar in one class. The curriculum is academic and challenging yet very practical. $320.
Mon, Wed 9:35–11:50 a.m. Aug 31–Dec 2 (In–Person)
Interactive Speaking 2A
Get started talking and using correct spoken English in everyday conversations! Increase vocabulary and improve pronunciation through active practice and lots of feedback. $320.
Tue, Thu 12:30–2:40 p.m. Sep 1–Dec 3 (In–Person)
Speaking for Success 2A
Improve your speaking in a fun, active environment. Build confidence and fluency by practicing speaking with clear pronunciation, grammar structures, and vocabulary words. This is an interactive class with group work and feedback from your teacher. $320.
Mon, Wed 7–9 p.m. Sep 9–Dec 2 (In–Person)Pronunciation Improvement 2
Practice English pronunciation in this fun class! Use poems, dialogues, videos, and games to learn pronunciation rules. You will record yourself during class and for homework; your teacher will give you feedback and suggestions to help improve your pronunciation. $320.
Tue, Thu 9:35–11:45 a.m. Sep 1–Dec 3 (In–Person)
Vocabulary and Reading Comprehension 2A
Read interesting short stories and short books to improve reading, speaking, and writing skills while learning new vocabulary! Activities will include lots of oral reading practice and discussion. $320.
Mon, Wed 12:30–2:45 p.m. Aug 31–Dec 2 (In–Person)
Reading and Writing 2A
Improve reading and writing skills for everyday life. Learn how to read unfamiliar words and improve reading comprehension. Practice writing good sentences and short paragraphs for notes, letters, and emails. Free tuition; $60 material fee.
Mon, Wed 12:30–2:50 p.m. Aug 31–Dec 2 (In–Person)
Mon, Wed 7–9:30 p.m. Aug 31–Dec 2 (In–Person)
Sat 9 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Aug 29–Dec 5 (In–Person)Interactive Grammar 2A
Learn grammar rules and get lots of practice using them while talking and writing in this class. $320.
Tue, Thu 9:35–11:45 a.m. Sep 1–Dec 3 (In–Person)Writing and Grammar 2A
Learn sentence writing, short paragraph writing, new vocabulary, grammar, and spelling in one class. Perfect for beginning students who want to start developing college writing skills. $320.
Mon, Wed 9:35–11:50 a.m. Aug 31–Dec 2 (In–Person)There are more Level 2 classes in the English for Work and Flexible Online sections.
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Level 3 – Intermediate I ESL Classes
In-Person - Class meets in person once or twice a week.
Scheduled Zoom - Class meets on Zoom
Flexible Online - Class is entirely on Canvas. Do course work whenever you have time. No Zoom meetings.Community English 3A
This practical class helps you prepare for career success while learning listening, speaking, reading, writing, and grammar skills. Free tuition; $60 material fee.
Mon, Wed 9:35 a.m.–12 p.m. Aug 31–Dec 2 (In–Person)
Mon, Wed 7:15–9:15 p.m. Aug 31–Dec 2 (Scheduled Zoom)
Tue, Thu 7–9:15 p.m. Sep 1–Dec 3 (In–Person)English 3A
Improve all your English skills in one intensive class: listening, speaking, reading, writing, pronunciation, and grammar. This class is academic and challenging yet very practical. This class is perfect if you are preparing for college or need better English skills for your job. $255.
Sat 9 a.m.–12 p.m. Sep 12–Dec 5 (In–Person)Intensive English 3A
Improve listening, speaking, reading, writing, and grammar in one class. The curriculum is academic, challenging, and practical; it’s perfect for students who want to study at the college level. $320.
Mon, Wed 9:35–11:50 a.m. Aug 31–Dec 2 (In–Person)Idioms and Vocabulary for Conversation 3
In this interactive class, you will learn commonly used vocabulary and American idioms while you improve your communication skills. You will practice new vocabulary in conversation, pronunciation, reading, and writing activities. $320.
Tue, Thu 3:30–5:40 p.m. Sep 1–Dec 3 (In–Person)Writing in Action 3
Improve writing for your personal use, GED, college studies, or the demands of your job. Learn writing structure, new vocabulary, and grammar. Basic computer typing skills are required. $320.
Tue, Thu 7–9 p.m. Sep 8–Dec 3 (In–Person)Interactive Speaking 3A
This fast-moving class will get you talking with lots of conversation, pronunciation practice, and new vocabulary. Learn through repetition, dialogues, and discussion. Individualized feedback from audio- and video-recording included. $320.
Mon, Wed 12:30–2:45 p.m. Aug 31–Dec 2 (In–Person)
Tue, Thu 12:30–2:40 p.m. Sep 1–Dec 3 (In–Person)Speaking for Success 3A
Improve your speaking in a fun, interactive environment. Build confidence and fluency by practicing speaking with clear pronunciation, grammar structures, and vocabulary words. $320.
Mon, Wed 7–9 p.m. Sep 9–Dec 2 (In–Person)
Tue, Thu 7–9 p.m. Sep 8–Dec 3 (In–Person)
Pronunciation Improvement 3
Improve English pronunciation skills in this popular course. Focus on stress, intonation, and vowel/consonant sounds. Record yourself and get helpful feedback from your teacher. $320.
Tue, Thu 9:35–11:45 a.m. Sep 1–Dec 3 (In–Person)
Vocabulary and Reading Comprehension 3A
Read interesting short stories and books to improve reading, speaking, and writing skills while learning new vocabulary! Activities will include lots of discussion and interaction. $320.
Mon, Wed 12:30–2:45 p.m. Aug 31–Dec 2 (In–Person)
Tue, Thu 12:30–2:40 p.m. Sep 1–Dec 3 (In–Person)Interactive Grammar 3A
Learn grammar rules and practice them in speaking and writing in this course. This is not just a class for memorizing rules! Excellent practice to improve the grammar you use every day. $320.
Tue, Thu 9:35–11:45 a.m. Sep 1–Dec 3 (In–Person)Writing and Grammar 3A
Develop sentence and paragraph writing skills in this intensive class. Also learn about specific ESL problems with vocabulary, spelling, and grammar, and discover how to avoid and correct these errors. $320.
Mon, Wed 9:35–11:50 a.m. Aug 31–Dec 2 (In–Person)
Reading and Writing 3A
Improve reading and writing skills for everyday life. Learn how to read practical, informational, and literary texts. Develop your vocabulary and grammar while learning and using the writing process. Free tuition; $60 material fee.
Mon, Wed 7–9:30 p.m. Aug 31–Dec 2 (In–Person)
Sat 9 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Aug 29–Dec 5 (In–Person)English for Citizenship (Level 3+)
This course is a quick, easy introduction to U.S. government and history for intermediate students. Learn English and about the U.S. government while preparing for the U.S. Citizenship Exam. $75.
Sat 9–11 a.m. Sep 19–Dec 5 (Scheduled Zoom)There are more Level 3 classes in the English for Work and Flexible Online sections.
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Level 4 – Intermediate II ESL Classes
In-Person - Class meets in person once or twice a week.
Scheduled Zoom - Class meets on Zoom
Flexible Online - Class is entirely on Canvas. Do course work whenever you have time. No Zoom meetings.English 4A
Improve your English skills in one intensive class: listening, speaking, reading, writing, pronunciation, and grammar. The curriculum in all the classes is academic and challenging yet very practical. This class is perfect if you are preparing for college study or need better English skills for your job or personal use. $255.
Sat 9 a.m.–12 p.m. Sep 12–Dec 5 (In–Person)Intensive English 4A
Improve listening, speaking, reading, writing, and grammar in one class. The curriculum is academic, challenging, and practical. This class is perfect for students who want to study at college level. $320.
Mon, Wed 9:35–11:50 a.m. Aug 31–Dec 2 (In–Person)Idioms and Vocabulary for Conversation 4
In this interactive class, you will learn commonly used vocabulary and American idioms while you improve your communication skills. You will practice new vocabulary in conversation, pronunciation, reading, and writing activities. $320.
Tue, Thu 3:30–5:40 p.m. Sep 1–Dec 3 (In–Person)Writing in Action 4
Improve writing for your personal use, GED, college studies, or the demands of your job. Learn writing structure, new vocabulary, and grammar. Basic computer typing skills are required. $320.
Tue, Thu 7–9 p.m. Sep 8–Dec 3 (In–Person)
Interactive Speaking 4A
Speak more like a native speaker! Develop confidence while speaking in an active, fun environment. Expand vocabulary and improve pronunciation skills. Practice what you learn in dialogues, role-plays, and discussions! Individualized feedback from audio- and video-recording included. $320.
Mon, Wed 12:30–2:45 p.m. Aug 31–Dec 2 (In–Person)
Tue, Thu 12:30–2:40 p.m. Sep 1–Dec 3 (In–Person)Speaking for Success 4A
Improve your speaking in a fun, active environment. Build confidence and fluency by practicing speaking with clear pronunciation, grammar structures, and vocabulary words. This is an interactive class with group work and feedback from your teacher. $320.
Mon, Wed 7–9 p.m. Sep 9–Dec 2 (In–Person)
Tue, Thu 7–9 p.m. Sep 8–Dec 3 (In–Person)Pronunciation Improvement 4
Practice stress, intonation, and the sounds of American English in this popular course. Also learn how to pronounce and spell new words. Record yourself and get helpful feedback from your teacher. Have fun while you improve your pronunciation! $320.
Tue, Thu 9:35–11:45 a.m. Sep 1–Dec 3 (In–Person)Vocabulary and Reading Comprehension 4A
Read interesting short stories and books to improve reading, speaking, and writing skills while learning new vocabulary! Activities will include lots of discussion and interaction. Increase your reading speed and improve comprehension. $320.
Mon, Wed 12:30–2:45 p.m. Aug 31–Dec 2 (In–Person)
Tue, Thu 12:30–2:40 p.m. Sep 1–Dec 3 (In–Person)Interactive Grammar 4A
Learn the grammar rules appropriate for this level and practice them in writing and speaking! $320.
Tue, Thu 9:35–11:45 a.m. Sep 1–Dec 3 (In–Person)Writing and Grammar 4A
Improve academic writing skills! This upper-intermediate level class focuses on paragraph-level writing tasks. Through writing, address ESL problems with vocabulary, spelling, and grammar. Prepare for college classes or the TOEFL. Basic computer typing skills are required. $320.
Mon, Wed 9:35–11:50 a.m. Aug 31–Dec 2 (In–Person)There are more Level 4 classes in the English for Work, Skilled Immigrant, Professional English, and Flexible Online sections.
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Level 5 & 6 – Advanced ESL Classes
In-Person - Class meets in person once or twice a week.
Scheduled Zoom - Class meets on Zoom
Flexible Online - Class is entirely on Canvas. Do course work whenever you have time. No Zoom meetings.Intensive English 5A
Improve listening, speaking, reading, writing, and grammar in one class. The curriculum is academic, challenging, and practical. This class is perfect for students who want to study at college level. $320.
Mon, Wed 9:35–11:50 a.m. Aug 31–Dec 2 (In–Person)Idioms and Vocabulary for Conversation 5
In this interactive class, you will learn commonly used vocabulary and American idioms while you improve your communication skills. You will practice new vocabulary in conversation, pronunciation, reading, and writing activities. $320.
Tue, Thu 3:30–5:40 p.m. Sep 1–Dec 3 (In–Person)Writing in Action 5
Improve writing for your personal use, GED, college studies, or the demands of your job. Learn writing structure, new vocabulary, and grammar. Basic computer typing skills are required. $320.
Tue, Thu 7–9 p.m. Sep 8–Dec 3 (In–Person)
Interactive Speaking 5A
Speak more like a native speaker! Develop confidence while practicing speaking in an active, fun environment. Expand vocabulary and improve pronunciation skills. Practice what you learn in dialogues, role-plays, and discussions! Individualized feedback from audio- and video-recording included. $320.
Tue, Thu 12:30–2:40 p.m. Sep 1–Dec 3 (In–Person)Speaking for Success 5A
Improve your speaking in a fun, active environment. Build confidence and fluency by practicing speaking with clear pronunciation, grammar structures, and vocabulary words. This is an interactive class with group work and feedback from your teacher. $320.
Mon, Wed 7–9 p.m. Sep 9–Dec 2 (In–Person)Pronunciation Improvement 5
Increase your confidence by learning rules for better pronunciation and sound more like a native speaker! Practice in class with dialogues, short plays, and brief presentations. Record yourself and get helpful feedback from your teacher. $320.
Tue, Thu 9:35–11:45 a.m. Sep 1–Dec 3 (In–Person)
Vocabulary and Reading Comprehension 5A
Read articles and books to improve reading, speaking, writing and vocabulary skills! Activities include discussion and interaction. This academic class will increase reading speed and comprehension. This class is perfect for students who want to study at college level. $320.
Mon, Wed 12:30–2:45 p.m. Aug 31–Dec 2 (In–Person)Interactive Grammar 5A
Learn the grammar rules appropriate for this level and practice them in writing and speaking! $320.
Tue, Thu 9:35–11:45 a.m. Sep 1–Dec 3 (In–Person)Writing and Grammar 5A
This class will help you develop your academic writing skills. Focus on organizing, editing, and developing well-written essays. You will also improve your grammar, vocabulary, and spelling skills. This class is perfect for students planning to attend a college, university, or take the TOEFL. $320.
Mon, Wed 9:35–11:50 a.m. Aug 31–Dec 2 (In–Person)There are more Level 5 & 6 classes in the Skilled Immigrant, Professional English, and Flexible Online sections.
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English for Work Classes
In-Person - Class meets in person once or twice a week.
Scheduled Zoom - Class meets on Zoom
Flexible Online - Class is entirely on Canvas. Do course work whenever you have time. No Zoom meetings.Develop your English, learn vocabulary and workplace skills and receive training for a specific career. For more information, visit HowardCC.edu/EnglishForWork or email EnglishForCareers@HowardCC.edu. Some courses require an application: https://bit.ly/EnglishForWorkApplications.
Learn to Use the Computer (Level 1–3)
Improve your computer abilities while learning English. You will learn the basics of using a computer, from the parts of the computer to going online and creating accounts. If you don’t feel comfortable using a keyboard and mouse, this may be the course for you. Free tuition; $60 material fee.
Tue, Thu 5:45–6:45 p.m. Sep 22–Dec 3 (In–Person)English for CDL (Level 2+)
Students will improve their English while preparing to get their Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) permit. In this class, students will learn the vocabulary needed to understand the Motor Vehicle Administration’s (MVA) CDL test, along with other English skills that are essential for commercial drivers. Eligible students will be encouraged to register for Workforce Career & Community Education’s CDL Class A or Class B course in the spring semester. Free tuition; $60 material fee.
Tue, Thu 7–9:15 p.m. Sep 1–Dec 3 (In-Person)English for Dental Assisting (Level 3+) *Application Required*
Improve your English while preparing to become a dental assistant. In this class, you will learn the vocabulary and English skills needed to be successful in dental assisting classes. This course is designed to support students taking Introduction to Dental Assisting and Radiology, which has additional costs associated with it. Free tuition; $60 material fee.
Sat 9 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Aug 29–Nov 7 (In–Person)English for CNA (Level 3+) *Application Required*
Improve your English while preparing to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). In this class, you will learn the vocabulary and English skills needed to be successful as a CNA. This course is designed to support students taking CNA training courses at HCC, which have additional costs. Free tuition; $60 material fee.
Mon, Wed 6–8:50 p.m. Aug 24–Oct 14 (In–Person) -
Skilled Immigrant Classes
In-Person - Class meets in person once or twice a week.
Scheduled Zoom - Class meets on Zoom
Flexible Online - Class is entirely on Canvas. Do course work whenever you have time. No Zoom meetings.Use your international education and professional experience to restart your career here in the United States. For more information, visit HowardCC.edu/SkilledImmigrant.
Advanced American Job Search (Level 4+)
Set career goals, learn about career resources, and hear from interesting guest speakers from banking, education, healthcare, and technology industries. Resume preparation and practice interviews will be covered. Upon completion, you may be eligible to enroll in Career Connections for International Professionals (CCIP). Free tuition; $40 material fee.
Tue, Thu 7–8:45 p.m. Sep 15–Oct 8 (Scheduled Zoom)Career Connections for International Professionals (Level 4+) **Application Required**
This course will provide career-focused instruction and skill development for skilled immigrants seeking professional employment. Topics include targeted resume writing, researching employers and applying for jobs, interviewing successfully, building a professional network, and designing an action plan for your career. Students must complete a written application and an oral interview. Prerequisite: Advanced American Job Search. Free tuition; $60 material fee.
Tue, Thu 7–8:30 p.m. Oct 13–Nov 19 (Scheduled Zoom) -
Professional English Classes
In-Person - Class meets in person once or twice a week.
Scheduled Zoom - Class meets on Zoom
Flexible Online - Class is entirely on Canvas. Do course work whenever you have time. No Zoom meetings.Earn a noncredit Professional English certificate by completing at least three professional English classes within 18 months. Build your written and oral communication competencies while gaining valuable knowledge and skills to succeed in the workplace. For more information, visit HowardCC.edu/ProfessionalEnglish.
Six Steps to Clearer Pronunciation (Level 4+) *Professional English Certificate*
Learn the most important parts of English pronunciation. Complete activities and submit videos to get feedback from your teacher about your specific English pronunciation. This is a 6-week online course. Register by Oct 16 and complete course by Dec 5. $300.
Aug 31–Dec 5 (Flexible Online)Business Idioms (Level 5+) *Professional English Certificate*
“Roll up your sleeves” and learn how to use the most common idioms used in business and respond confidently when you hear or see them. Practice the idioms by listening, speaking, reading, and writing with feedback from your teacher. This is a 7-week online course. Register by Oct 16 and complete course by Dec 5. $300.
Aug 31–Dec 5 (Flexible Online)English for Business Communication (Level 5+) *Professional English Certificate*
This course is designed to improve the English skills of the business professional or someone interested in business pursuits. Written and oral communication practice will focus around these topics: cultural diversity, socializing, using the telephone, negotiating, making presentations, interviewing, recruiting, and participating in meetings. $330.
Tue, Thu 7–9 p.m. Sep 8–Dec 3 (In–Person)Professional Writing (Level 5+) *Professional English Certificate*
This advanced-level ESL writing course will prepare professionals for business and professional writing. Work on various types of professional writing such as e-mail correspondence, summaries, cover letters, resumes, and more. Professional vocabulary and grammar will be covered as well. Basic computer typing skills are required. $330.
Mon, Wed 7–9 p.m. Sep 9–Dec 2 (In–Person) -
Flexible Online ESL Classes
These courses are entirely online and do not have Zoom meetings. You can study on your own time and at your own pace. New students will receive an email with instructions to create an HCC Canvas account after registering. After you log into Canvas, your instructor will contact you with instructions on how to begin. Register by Oct 16 and complete course by Dec 5. To register, visit HowardCC.edu/ELC/Registration.
Grammar Skills Classes
Learn important grammar topics and practice using them in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Do activities, submit recordings and writings, and get feedback from your teacher. Content and complexity increase with each level. This is a 6-week online course. $250.
Aug 31–Dec 5 (Flexible Online)
• Intro to Fundamental Grammar Skills (Level 2)
• Fundamental Grammar Skills (Level 3)
• Intermediate Grammar Skills (Level 4)
• Intro to Advanced Grammar Skills (Level 5)
• Advanced Grammar Skills (Level 6)Fundamental Vocabulary and Spelling Skills (Level 3)
Expand your vocabulary and improve your spelling! Learn some of the 3000 most important words in English and many useful spelling rules. This is a 6-week online course. $250.
Aug 31–Dec 5 (Flexible Online)Intro to Advanced Vocabulary and Spelling Skills (Level 5)
Can you easily and accurately use words from the Academic Word List (AWL)in your writing and speaking? In this class, students will briefly review the spelling rules associated with difficult phonemes in AWL words, before moving on to learning about how syllables affect how we spell and say academic vocabulary, spelling suffixes correctly to expand personal word banks and improving listening comprehension and pronunciation. This is a 6-week online course. $250.
Aug 31–Dec 5 (Flexible Online)Six Steps to Clearer Pronunciation (Level 4+) *Professional English Certificate*
Learn the most important parts of English pronunciation. Complete activities and submit videos to get feedback from your teacher about your specific English pronunciation. This is a 6-week online course. $300.
Aug 31–Dec 5 (Flexible Online)
Business Idioms (Level 5+) *Professional English Certificate*
“Roll up your sleeves” and learn how to use the most common idioms used in business and respond confidently when you hear or see them. Practice the idioms by listening, speaking, reading, and writing with feedback from your teacher. This is a 7-week online course. $300.
Aug 31–Dec 5 (Flexible Online)ESL Tutor Certification (Level 6)
Learn about the challenges faced by adult English Language Learners (ELLs) and master strategies for making one-to-one instruction positive and effective. This training is ideal for tutors who want to work with adult ELLs in the US or abroad. Tutors will complete 6 hours of interactive online instruction followed by a 3-hour practicum with feedback. $310.
Aug 31–Dec 5 (Flexible Online) -
Health Care Interpreter Training
The Health Care Interpreting Program is comprised of three courses that need to be taken sequentially to earn a certificate of training. You must have a high level of proficiency in English and at least one other language to be able to participate in this class. Summer registration opens in April 2026.
In the first course, Orientation to Health Care Interpreting Training, students receive an overview of the program’s components and requirements. The course also introduces the standards of practice, roles, and responsibilities of health care interpreters. To advance to the second course in the series, students must demonstrate proficiency in both languages by successfully passing language assessments.
In the second course, Interpreting in Health Care, students develop the awareness, knowledge, and skills needed for effective interpretation in health care settings. The course covers common medical conditions, treatments, and procedures, while also emphasizing the importance of bridging linguistic and cultural gaps between patients and providers. Students participate in structured classroom practice with language partners who share the same target language.
In the third course, Field Experience in Health Care Interpreting, students arrange their own volunteer opportunities within the community to practice their interpreting skills in real-world settings. Through these experiences, they reflect on, analyze, and evaluate their performance to strengthen their professional development. Digital badge eligible (DB).
Orientation to Health Care Interpreting
Aug 10–13, 2026
$140 (Flexible Online)Interpreting in Health Care
Sat, 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., Sep 12–Dec 12, 2026
$995 (In-Person Hybrid)Field Experience in Health Care Interpreting
Thu 7–8 p.m. Winter 2027: Jan 28, Feb 25, Mar 18, Apr 29, May 27.
$155 (Online Hybrid)
(Dates and times for additional sessions will vary)For more information, visit HowardCC.edu/HCIT or email HCIT@HowardCC.edu.
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Summer II ESL Classes (July 6–August 20)
In-Person - Class meets in person twice or four times a week. All day and afternoon classes will be in the Duncan Hall Building. All evening classes will be in the Hickory Ridge Building.
Flexible Online - Class is entirely on Canvas. Do course work whenever you have time. No Zoom meetings.
Scheduled Zoom - Class meets on ZoomCOMPREHENSIVE CLASSES
Pre-Beginning Comprehensive B
Learn everyday, practical English and develop skills in listening, speaking, reading, writing, and grammar. Free tuition; $60 materials fee.
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu 9 a.m.–12:15 p.m. Jul 6–Aug 6 (In–Person)Life Skills English Pre-Beginning A/B
This is a class for students who speak no English. Learn basic words and grammar to help adapt to life in the U.S. Free tuition; $60 materials fee.
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu 7–9:10 p.m. Jul 6–Aug 20 (In–Person)Everyday English 1B
Improve the English skills needed for everyday life and work in this course for beginning students. Free tuition; $60 materials fee.
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu 7–9:10 p.m. Jul 6–Aug 20 (In–Person)English 1B–5B
Improve all your English skills in one intensive class: listening, speaking, reading, writing, pronunciation, and grammar. The curriculum in all the classes is academic and challenging yet very practical. These classes are perfect if you are preparing for college study or need better English skills for your job or personal use. Content and complexity increase with each level. $290.
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu 12:30–2:40 p.m. Jul 6–Aug 6 (In–Person)
Mon, Wed 6:30–9:30 p.m. Jul 6–Aug 19 (In–Person)LISTENING AND SPEAKING CLASSES
Learn to use correct spoken English in everyday conversations. Develop confidence while you practice listening and speaking in an interactive, fun environment. Improve your pronunciation and expand vocabulary daily by learning and using new words and expressions. You will practice new vocabulary through repetition, group and pair work, and pronunciation exercises. Content and complexity increase with each level. $290.
Intensive Listening and Speaking 1B–5B
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu 9:30–11:40 a.m. Jul 6–Aug 6 (In–Person)GRAMMAR SKILLS CLASSES
Learn important grammar topics and practice using them in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Do activities, submit recordings and writings, and get feedback from your teacher. This class is entirely online and does not have scheduled Zoom meetings. Study on your own time and at your own pace. Content and complexity increase with each level. This is a 6-week online course. $250.
Intro to Fundamental Grammar Skills (Level 2)
Fundamental Grammar Skills (Level 3)
Intermediate Grammar Skills (Level 4)
Intro to Advanced Grammar Skills (Level 5)
Advanced Grammar Skills (Level 6)
Jul 6–Aug 21 (Flexible Online)PROFESSIONAL ENGLISH CLASS
Six Steps to Clearer Pronunciation *Professional English certificate* (Level 4+)
Practice pronunciation in the comfort of your own home, anywhere in the world! Your HCC ELC instructor will guide you through six detailed video lessons, with exercises to practice on your own. Record yourself with easy-to-use technology, and your instructor will respond privately to you with feedback and suggestions. A webcam with a microphone is required. $300.
Jul 6–Aug 21 (Flexible Online)Business Idioms *Professional English certificate* (Level 5+)
Idioms are everywhere in the American workplace. If you do not use these common phrases, you may sound formal and stiff to colleagues and clients. In this interactive class, you will “roll up your sleeves” and learn how to use the most common idioms for speaking and writing in a business setting. This is an interactive online class where you will communicate with your business English instructor through audio/video recordings and writing. You will get feedback on your English from your instructor every week. $300.
Jul 6–Aug 21 (Flexible Online)Professional Writing *Professional English certificate* (Level 5+)
This advanced-level ESL writing course will prepare professionals for business and professional writing. Work on various types of professional writing such as e-mail correspondence, conventions, memos, short reports, summaries, business letters, cover letters, and resumes. Vocabulary and grammar will be covered as well. Basic computer skills are required. $300.
Jul 6–Aug 21 (Flexible Online)Grammar for Business *Professional English certificate* (Level 5+)
This class will focus on grammar that is needed and used by business professionals. All the grammar points are taught using actual business scenarios. Lessons will focus on both written and spoken language. $300.
Mon, Wed 6:30–8:30 p.m. Jul 6–Aug 19 (Scheduled Zoom)