English for Speakers of Other Languages

Program Description/Overview

The university offers a comprehensive English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) program for non-native speakers of English who intend to obtain an academic degree at Alliant. The ESOL program is housed in the International Language Education Center (ILEC) on the San Diego campus.

The ESOL curriculum consists of courses at three proficiency levels. A full-time course load is 4 courses per 8-week terms. ESL course units do not apply toward a student’s academic degree requirements. However, ESOL course units satisfy visa requirements and are listed on the student’s transcript.

Each proficiency level of ESOL courses are two consecutive 8-week terms in length. Students must pass the final exam of the “B” section in order to advance to the next level.

Program Learning Outcomes/Goals

The objective of the program is to help students reach their academic and professional goals through the development of English competency. Students develop the English ability that is necessary for the successful completion of university undergraduate and graduate course work. The courses in the program have been designed to develop academic English language skills in reading, writing, listening and speaking,

The length of study in the program varies according to the student’s entrance level, with most students completing the English program within one year. Each competency level requires two consecutive 8-week terms of intensive study. 

Program-Specific Admission Requirements

All students in the ESOL program take the Alliant International English Proficiency Test (IEPT) prior to the start of their ESOL classes.

The Alliant IEPT is an admissions requirement for all international students who do not meet the TOEFL, IELTS, or other accepted standardized English exam requirement listed for their specific academic program. Students take the Alliant IEPT exam  prior to first-time registration and is offered on the San Diego campus during the orientation period each semester. The Alliant International English Proficiency Test measures a student’s abilities in reading, grammar, writing, listening and speaking skills. Each skill is evaluated separately; overall proficiency is also determined.

Based on IEPT results, students will be assigned to the appropriate ESL courses. Please refer to the international admissions requirements section for further information on the English proficiency policy.

Credit Units

Total Credit Units: up to 36

Total Core Credit Units: up to 36

Total Elective Credit Units: N/A

Total Concentration Credit Units: N/A

Curriculum Plan