Program Overview

ESL Part-Time Program

The ESL Part-Time Program offers 16 hours of daytime classes each week from high-beginning to advanced proficiency levels. This program is designed to help learners improve their English language and cultural skills for professional, academic, or social purposes. Our integrated-skills approach combines listening, speaking, reading, writing, and grammar to build both fluency and accuracy in spoken and written English.

Program Description

Classes are small, averaging 10 students, so everyone receives individual attention and plenty of opportunities to practice. The exact schedule of classes is determined by student enrollment. Students are assigned class days and times based on their proficiency levels.

Who is this Program For?

• Students looking for a part-time program
• Students with a minimum high-beginning level (A1+) of English proficiency
• People who want to improve their English for work or everyday communication
• Family members of Rice students/staff living in Houston who want to improve their English and make local friends
• Students who want to take English classes during the day

Program Information

• We offer six daytime sessions each year. Each session lasts seven weeks with 16 hours of class per week
• Classes meet Monday through Thursday, between 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. or 1-5 p.m. on the Rice University campus
• Students should be ready for either a morning or afternoon schedule, which is assigned by the program director

Students new to the program must take the placement test.

Course Information

Courses for students in Levels 1-4 are Grammar & Conversation and Reading & Writing. Levels 5 and 6 take Comprehensive Skills and Academic Preparation. Courses for students in the advanced level are special topics courses focused on themes such as Presentations & Pronunciation, American Culture, Business English, and Advanced Reading and Vocabulary.

Program Instructors

Teachers in the ESL Part-Time Program are experienced professionals with advanced degrees. They use the latest methods in language learning and teaching and incorporate current articles, videos, and other technology to keep lessons engaging and relevant.

ESL Part-Time Program Levels

Levels 1-4 (A1+ - B1+)

These classes focus on the basics: building vocabulary, learning essential grammar, and practicing reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Students work on the skills they need for everyday oral and written communication in an interactive environment.

Levels 5-6 (B2 - C1)

At these levels, students continue building fluency and accuracy while also preparing for professional, personal, or academic success. Students will practice essay writing, develop critical reading skills, and sharpen their listening and note-taking abilities.

Advanced Level (C1+)

For students whose English is already strong, the advanced level offers the chance to explore specialized topics like public speaking, pronunciation, current events, business English, and more. Students may enroll in the Advanced Level more than one time with a different curriculum each time.