Who can take free noncredit ESL classes?
Any resident of California can take these classes. The intensive English classes meet
for eight weeks, four days per week (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday), generally
for three hours per day. See ESL information. There are other options as 2 days open-enrollment classes, conversation, reading
and writing, and computers. If you have a visitor’s visa or international student
visa, you should consult with the International Office.
How can I register for and enroll in noncredit ESL classes?
Come to one of the registration sessions (see ESL Terms for dates and times). Plan to arrive early and spend at least two hours here. You
will be given information about the classes, and then you will take a placement test. Based
on test results, you will be placed into one of the seven levels that is best for
your English abilities or any other ope-enrollment class. You can take classes in
the morning (8:30 a.m. – 11:45), afternoon (12 – 3:15 p.m.), or evening (6 – 9:15
p.m.). We also have conversation classes on Fridays and Saturdays. If your schedule
permits, you may take more than one class.
What happens if I have to change my schedule due to work or quit?
Always let the instructor know if you have problems with your schedule or you have
to stop studying. We also try to help you change your class schedule when possible.
The college offers conversation courses, reading and writing, computers, citizenship
classes and ESL classes in the computer lab.
How much are the noncredit ESL classes?
The classes are free. However, textbooks are available for purchase if required.
What is the difference between noncredit and credit ESL classes?
In noncredit ESL, there are seven levels of instruction. You do not have to know
any English to begin studying. In these free classes, you will practice listening,
speaking, reading, and writing. You will not receive college credit, but you will
take tests. After you complete the noncredit courses, may want to advance your English
to an even higher level or earn a college degree or certificate by taking credit ESL
courses. You can learn more about the program by visiting the credit ESL Web site, or contact Melissa Lloyd-Jones, Dept. Chair, by emailing her at mlloydjones@miracosta.edu or by calling her at (760) 757-2121, extension 6522.
I can’t come to school four days per week. What can I do?
The noncredit ESL program has several ways you can study if you cannot take intensive
8-week courses, there are two-day classes and conversation classes on Fridays and
Saturdays. Or you can study independently in the Community Learning Lab (room 130
at the Community Learning Center), take an off-site class,. Or enroll in our conversation
classes in the late afternoon.
I need more English for work and to prepare for a career. Which class is best for
me?
I want to become a United States citizen. Do you have classes for citizenship?
We have a citizenship course in our Community Learning Lab (room 130 at the Community
Learning Center). Almost all students (more than 90%) who complete our course, obtain
their United States citizenship. See the Citizenship information Web page to learn more about the citizenship course and meet some of our graduates.
How do I move from one level to the next?
Teachers in the 8-wk English classes have identified student learning outcomes for every class. Your teacher will determine when your English abilities are at the appropriate level for you to be promoted to the next level of the noncredit ESL program. Teachers use information from test scores, attainment of student learning outcomes for the level, class assignments, attendance, and other identified criteria to decide if students are ready to be promoted to the next level. When you are promoted, you will receive a Certificate of Completion. Every eight weeks, 50% of our students are promoted.
What classes can I take after I finish all the ESL classes?
You are a student of MiraCosta College, and there are many opportunities for you at
the Community Learning Center. You may enroll in the Adult Basic Education (ABE)
classes to learn to read better, Adult High School classes, classes to prepare for
the G.E.D., or computer classes. At the other MiraCosta college campuses (Barnard
Drive, San Elijo), you can register for credit ESL, other academic courses, and career
and technical courses (MCC Technology Center in Carlsbad). It is very important to
see a counselor for advice on which classes are best for you to achieve your goals.
We have counselors available at the CLC during day time and evening hours.
What if I need help outside of class?
At the Community Learning Center, we have an academic support center. There are tutors
who can help you with any class work and practice your English more. There is also
a librarian in the academic support center who can help you learn to search for information
and help you find materials. Additionally, we have open computer lab hours so that
you can check email, get information, and type assignments.
