At Campbellsville University, our English as a Second Language (ESL) program offers
a welcoming, supportive environment where students from around the world can build
strong English skills for academic, professional, and personal success. With experienced
instructors, a flexible learning structure, and a focus on real-world communication,
CU is the ideal place to grow in confidence and fluency. Here’s why students choose
CU for their ESL education:
- Student-Focused Language Instruction: Our ESL program is designed to meet you where you are—whether you’re just beginning
or looking to refine your English for university-level study. You'll receive personalized
support in a classroom environment that prioritizes your success.
- Interactive, Real-World Learning: Through dynamic lessons, group activities, and opportunities to engage with the CU
community, you’ll develop practical language skills you can use immediately in academic
and everyday settings.
- Supportive Faculty and Staff: Our dedicated ESL instructors understand the challenges of learning a new language
and are here to guide you every step of the way. From placement to progress, you’ll
receive the attention and care you need to thrive.
- Flexible Learning Options: We offer scheduling options designed to fit your life and goals. Whether you're transitioning
into a degree program or simply looking to improve your English, our program can adapt
to your needs.
- Christ-Centered Learning Environment: Campbellsville University integrates Christian values across all programs, creating
a community that values respect, service, and global connection, an ideal setting
for international students seeking both academic and personal growth.
Campbellsville University’s English as a Second Language (ESL) program provides immersive,
skill-based instruction designed to help non-native speakers build fluency and confidence
in English. Whether preparing for university study, improving communication for the
workplace, or enhancing everyday language skills, our courses create a strong foundation
for success in academic and real-world settings.
Here are some of the key courses you may take as part of the ESL program:
- Grammar and Writing: Strengthen your understanding of English grammar while developing writing skills
for both academic and practical use.
- Listening and Speaking: Build confidence in conversation and improve listening comprehension through interactive
speaking activities and real-life dialogues.
- Reading and Vocabulary: Improve reading strategies and expand your vocabulary through a variety of engaging
texts, from academic passages to current articles.
- Academic Preparation: Learn the structure and language of university-level assignments, classroom discussions,
and academic reading to help you transition into degree programs.
- Pronunciation and Communication: Focus on pronunciation, intonation, and stress patterns to enhance your clarity and
confidence when speaking English.
- TOEFL Preparation (optional): Practice test-taking strategies and review the key components of the TOEFL exam for
students planning to apply to academic programs.
- Cultural Orientation: Understand American customs, academic expectations, and intercultural communication
to ease your transition into campus life and the community.
See the course requirements here.
To be admitted into the English as a Second Language (ESL) program at Campbellsville
University, international applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Application for Admission: Complete and submit the international student application.
- Passport Copy: Provide a clear, valid copy of your passport identification page.
- Proof of Financial Support: Submit a bank statement or financial document showing adequate funds for tuition
and living expenses.
- High School Completion (optional for ESL-only students): While not always required for ESL-only applicants, proof of high school completion
may be requested depending on program goals.
- English Placement Test: Take Campbellsville’s English placement test to determine the appropriate course
level upon arrival or before beginning classes.
By meeting these requirements, you’ll be on your way to strengthening your English
skills in a supportive, globally minded learning environment.
While the ESL program is not a degree program itself, it serves as a vital foundation
for students aiming to succeed in academic, professional, and everyday English-speaking
environments. By improving your English language proficiency, you’ll be better equipped
to pursue the following opportunities:
- University Degree Programs: Strengthen your English skills to meet language requirements for undergraduate or
graduate study at Campbellsville University or other U.S. institutions.
- Professional Communication: Enhance your ability to communicate clearly and confidently in the workplace—especially
in fields that require interaction with English-speaking clients or teams.
- Customer Service & Hospitality Roles: Gain the language tools needed for service-oriented roles in tourism, retail, and
hospitality.
- Healthcare & Community Services: Support effective communication in roles where empathy, clarity, and interpersonal
skills are key.
- Global Business & Administration: Prepare for success in international business settings by improving your email writing,
presentations, and cross-cultural communication skills.
- Language Teaching & Tutoring (with further training): Build a foundation for teaching English or supporting language learners, especially
if combined with additional education or certification (such as TESL or TEFL).
Whether your goal is to transition into a degree program or advance your career, Campbellsville’s
ESL program helps you take the next step with confidence.
If you’re ready to improve your English skills and prepare for academic or professional
success, Campbellsville University’s ESL program is here to support you. Our friendly
and experienced team will guide you through the application process and help you get
started on your journey.
To apply, follow the steps on our International Admissions page. Have questions? Contact the Center for Global Engagement at international@campbellsville.edu or call (270) 789-5203.
We’re excited to welcome you to the Campbellsville community!
