VIU's English Language Programs Department offers two programs. One is for students who wish to improve their English language skills (ESL & TOEFL preparation); the other is a graduate-level program for those who want to become English teachers (TESOL).

English as a Second Language (ESL) Program is an intensive four-level American language program that focuses on language skills and college preparation.

• Four levels (from beginner to high-advanced, each level is one semester long)
• A wide selection of courses
• Intensive TOEFL preparation 
• Classes starting in September, January, and June
• A great team of teachers
• Classmates from 50+ countries
• Field trips, parties, seminars, and other events
• Graduation from the program qualifies students for admission to our academic programs without a TOEFL score
• 20 hours of classroom instruction per week (24 hours in the summer)
• $2,650 per semester ($2,120 for the summer semester)

Graduate Certificate Program in TESOL(Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) prepares students to work as English teachers in a world where the global need for English language skills is growing.

• Graduate-level program
• Six courses (18 graduate credits)
• 2 semesters of full-time study
• Convenient location & schedule
• Classes start in September, January, and June
• $7,560 for the whole program ($3,780 per semester)