Is English not your first language, and do you want to build your language skills? Austin Community College District (ACC) provides English classes to non-native English-speaking adults through the English for Speakers of Other Languages Program (ESOL) to prepare them for work, school, and everyday living.
The college offers virtual, in-person, and hybrid English classes through Credit and Continuing Education. In this flexible English learning program, students can take one or more courses in Reading and Vocabulary, Oral Communication, Grammar, Writing, and Business Communication.
Top 5 Reasons to Enroll in ESOL
- Further your education
Improving your fluency in English is the first step to pursuing your long-term educational goals, whether you hope to receive a degree from ACC or transfer to another institution. When you can communicate effectively with teachers and other students, you can take classes in any field or subject matter. Reading, writing, and speaking English allows you to explore whichever educational programs interest you or set you up for success in your career goals.
- Open the door to new career opportunities
Improving your English-speaking skills increases your options in every potential field of work. People who speak multiple languages are generally in higher demand across the job market, earn increased wages, and are considered more seriously for promotions and other vocational opportunities. ESOL can help you be a stronger job candidate and a better-performing employee.
- Gain confidence in communicating with others
Practicing your English will give you the confidence to effectively communicate with a greater variety of people, simplifying your interactions and lessening anxiety over possible miscommunication. Additionally, improving any particular skill over time makes you more confident in learning, working hard, and growing in other areas of your life.
- Improve your brain’s capabilities
Learning another language strengthens your brain in a variety of ways. According to the U.S. Department of Education, bilingual people are, on average, better at multitasking, focusing and remembering information, understanding math concepts, making logical decisions, and more. Taking ESOL classes will also help you become more familiar with the rules and structure of all languages.
- Build connections and engage with your community
By feeling comfortable with speaking both English and your native language, you can communicate with both native-speaking friends and family and English-speaking members of your community. Additionally, when you build your ability to communicate with the majority of people who live in your community, you can make new connections with people, participate in events and other experiences held in English, and be more informed about relevant news and notable information about the area in which you reside.
ESOL tuition is $256/course for most students, plus one-time textbook and placement test fees. Financial aid is available to anyone who qualifies.
To begin your application, click here. For more information about ESOL programs at ACC, visit austincc.edu/esol or the office located at Highland Campus.