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CMLL LanguageEnglish as a Second Language

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Why English as a Second Language?

The English as a Second Language (ESL) and International Teaching Assistant (ITA) Programs at Texas Tech University help multilingual students and professionals strengthen their English communication skills for academic, professional, and teaching success. Through graduate-level courses in academic writing, professional communication, and classroom instruction, students can improve their spoken and written English, earn the English Language for Academic and Professional Communication (ELAP) Graduate Certificate, and prepare for teaching responsibilities through the ITA Program. Beyond the classroom, initiatives such as English in the Evenings provide accessible language-learning opportunities for both the university and Lubbock communities, fostering confidence, communication, and cross-cultural engagement. 

Programs Within ESL

English Language for Academic and Professional Communication Graduate Certificate

The Graduate Certificate in English Language for Academic and Professional Communication provides non-native speakers of English the opportunity to develop their spoken and written English communication. This graduate certificate demonstrates to companies and educational institutions in the United States and overseas that non-native English-speaking M.A. and doctoral degree graduates who earn the certificate speak and write English at a level expected for academic and professional purposes. 

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Initiatives Within ESL

English in the Evenings

In this program, adults in the Lubbock community work with skilled instructors to grow their communication skills in four areas: reading, writing, listening, and speaking.

Students enroll in six-week-long classes that meet twice a week. Upon successful completion of each course, students earn a certificate of completion.

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International Teaching Assistant Workshop

The CMLL International Teaching Assistant (ITA) Program evaluates all Texas Tech University nonnative speakers of English for approval to teach in accordance with OP 64.03. TTU departments must arrange for all nonnative speakers of English who will teach in their classrooms to be evaluated for proficiency in English for teaching by the TTU ITA Program.

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Culture Conversation Groups

In these weekly culture conversation groups, U.S. American students, international students, and other community members meet to discuss interesting cultural topics in small groups with the help of a conversation guide. These groups are open to the public – bring a friend!

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