ESL students interacting with ESL instructor
Language and Literature

English as a Second Language (ESL)

SC NC

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 interests
Headshot of Erica Mercado, Success Center Support Specialist
Erica 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.

Student preparing to fill out questionnaire in class with book on desk.
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 EnglishFarsiChineseSpanish and Russian translations).

Understanding the ESL Classes and Levels

View ESL Program Overview (available in EnglishFarsiChineseSpanish 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 LevelCourses
Advanced20C, 24P, 25C, 25G, 25L, 30C
Intermediate-High530C, 530S, 530O, 532G

830C, 830S, 830O, 832G
Intermediate520C, 520S, 520O, 522G, 522F, 522P, 522T

820C, 820S, 820O, 822G, 822F, 822P, 822T
Novice-High510C, 510S, 510O, 512G, 512P, 512T

810C, 810S, 810O, 812G, 812P, 812T
Novice800

Noncredit

Non-Credit Course NumbersDescription
800, 810, 812, 820, 822, 830, 832
  • Free tuition
  • Proof of residency is not required
  • Pass/No Pass Grade
  • Can repeat

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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