Community College of Philadelphia
English-as-a Second Language (ESL)
1700 Spring Garden Street, Room W1-1
Philadelphia, PA 19130
215-751-8829 telephone
Huizhen Ren
Coordinator, ESL Program and Services
hren@ccp.edu
English as a Second Language Program and Services
Division of Educational Support Services
Community College of Philadelphia
The English as a Second Language (ESL) Program and Services at Community College of Philadelphia is designed to meet the needs of students whose native language is not English. The College offers a variety of ESL courses and support services to help students succeed academically and participate in the English-speaking communities.
What ESL Courses Are Offered at the Community College of Philadelphia?
There are three levels of listening/speaking and four levels of integrated reading/writing courses. Experienced English Department faculty teach all the ESL courses.
Listening/Speaking Courses
These courses help students learn skills ranging from conversation to complex communication tasks. Advanced students listen to college lectures, take notes, and speak in formal and informal situations. A language lab also allows you to work independently to improve your pronunciation and listening skills.
Reading/Writing Courses
The reading and writing courses are taught as linked courses. You can develop better vocabulary, improve reading skills, and understand grammar. You will read college level textbooks and write academic compositions as well as write for everyday purposes.
What College Courses Can You Take While You Are Enrolled in the ESL Courses?
While working on English skills, you can take mathematics courses and some college courses based on your academic needs and English proficiency. These college courses help you begin exploring academic interests in a caring environment with teachers and classmates from similar backgrounds. Placement into these courses depends on your level of English proficiency.
What Other Services Does the College Offer?
Community College of Philadelphia offers you a wide range of academic support services to assist you in your studies.
Orientation
At the beginning of the semester, an orientation program for new students familiarizes you with the College environment. In the middle of the semester, a mid-semester orientation helps you further understand matters concerning academic studies and transfer issues.
Counseling
Counselors work with you individually or in groups to help you in course selection, transfer and career planning.
Academic Advising
Academic advisors help you select courses and major area of studies.
Learning Labs
There are learning labs where you will attend the lab classes attached to speaking, reading/writing courses and get free help from specialists and peer tutors in any subjects you take.
How Do You Enroll at Community College of Philadelphia?
You can get an application form from the Welcome Center, M1-17 or
the ESL Office, W1-1. You can also call (215)751-8230 or (215)751-8829, or
you may apply on line at www.ccp.edu
All applicants will be scheduled to take a placement test prior to registration. There are four parts in the test: Math, English listening, reading and writing.
After the test, you will come in and meet with a counselor. The counselor will go over the test results, help you register, and answer questions.
When Can You Begin Your Studies at the College?
The College offers courses in two semesters: Fall and Spring and two summer sessions, Summer I and II. You can begin in the Fall Semester after Labor Day in September, or Spring Semester in the middle of January. Summer I begins in mid-May and Summer II begins in early July. You should submit the application as early as possible.
When Do Classes Meet?
During the fall and the spring semesters, there are classes during the day, in the evening and on Saturdays. During the two summer sessions, we have classes during the day and in the evening.
How Much Is the Tuition?
For details on tuition and fees see the College catalog or go to the College's website.
Financial Aid
The College participates in these and other state and federal funded programs:
If you need financial aid, you must file an application each academic year. Since the application process for all of the above grants and loans takes time, please file the application as early as possible. Application forms are available at the Financial Aid Office, Room BG-3. You may also apply online at www.fafsa.ed.gov.
Let Community College of Philadelphia help you achieve your educational goals. For more information about the ESL Program and Services at Community College of Philadelphia, visit www.ccp.edu, call (215)751-8829, or email at mvargas@ccp.edu or hren@ccp.edu.
