English as a Second Language Program (ESL)
The English as a Second Language (ESL) Program at Kean University provides high quality instruction for matriculated students who are nonnative speakers of English and who require additional development in academic English.
After admission to the University, students complete placement testing. This includes oral, writing, and reading assessments. While freshmen are required to take these tests, transfer students who are non-native speakers of English are encouraged to do so as well. Transfer students can contact the ESL office to make an appointment for testing at (908) 737-0420.
After students complete their testing, they receive a Letter of Advisement from the ESL Program informing them of their ESL level and course requirements. There are five levels in the ESL Program, each building on the one before. Each level consists of a required 6-credit core course. Some students will also need to take 3-credit auxiliary courses depending on their language skills. Placement in the core courses is determined by placement testing, as described above. Once placed in a core level, students complete the rest of their ESL program sequentially. Students exit the ESL program’s core courses by completing ENG 1430, Composition II for Non-native Speakers. Placement in the auxiliary courses is determined by placement testing, or by teacher assessment of areas needing intensive support. The English Department, Communications, and General Education offer a few courses with a designated L-section for non-native speakers. These L-sections provide the same content as other sections but give additional attention to the ongoing language development of non-native speakers. After exiting the ESL program, non-native speakers may enroll, if they choose, in L-designated sections, where such sections are offered.
Courses in the ESL program are designated either with an ESL prefix or an ENG prefix. Courses with an ESL prefix are not offered for graduation credit but carry institutional credit for purpose of determining total semester course load. Courses with an ENG prefix earn credit toward the degree.
Students interested in more information about the ESL Program should contact the program staff in CAS, Room 302, or call (908) 737-0420.