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ESL Courses

ESL courses can help you learn grammar rules, vocabulary expansion, pronunciation techniques, and conversational skills. You can build competencies in listening comprehension, writing clarity, and reading fluency, along with cultural nuances that enhance communication. Many courses introduce tools like language learning apps and online resources that support practice and engagement, making it easier to apply your skills in everyday situations.

Popular ESL Courses and Certifications


  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    A

    Arizona State University

    Arizona State University TESOL

    Skills you'll gain: Classroom Management, Lesson Planning, Learning Management Systems, Education Software and Technology, Oral Comprehension, Oral Expression, Instructional and Curriculum Design, Teaching, Instructional Design, Pedagogy, Curriculum Planning, Instructional Strategies, Education and Training, English Language, Language Competency, Digital pedagogy, Educational Materials, Writing, Literacy, Train The Trainer

    4.9
    Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
    ·
    22K reviews

    Beginner · Professional Certificate · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    U

    University of London

    Teaching EFL/ESL Reading: A Task Based Approach

    Skills you'll gain: Literacy, English Language, Language Learning, Vocabulary, Grammar

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    663 reviews

    Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of California, Davis

    Building Basic English Skills A1/A2

    Skills you'll gain: Oral Comprehension, Vocabulary, Grammar, English Language, Language Competency, Literacy, Language Learning

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    96 reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    A

    Arizona State University

    TESOL Certificate, Part 1: Teach English Now!

    Skills you'll gain: Classroom Management, Lesson Planning, Instructional and Curriculum Design, Teaching, Instructional Design, Pedagogy, Curriculum Planning, Instructional Strategies, Education and Training, Curriculum Development, Language Competency, Digital pedagogy, Train The Trainer, Research, Human Learning, Student Engagement, Literacy, English Language, Verbal Communication Skills, Critical Thinking

    4.9
    Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
    ·
    20K reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

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  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    Università di Napoli Federico II

    English Intermediate B1

    Skills you'll gain: Presentations, Sales Presentations, Oral Expression, Business Communication, Business Correspondence, English Language, Verbal Communication Skills, Negotiation, Workplace inclusivity, Business Writing, Interviewing Skills, Data Visualization, Vocabulary, Language Competency, Language Learning, Stress Management, Education and Training, Higher Education, Oral Comprehension, Grammar

    4.6
    Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
    ·
    491 reviews

    Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

What brings you to Coursera today?

  • Status: New
    New
    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    A

    Arizona State University

    Learn English Now: Basic Communication

    Skills you'll gain: English Language, Social Justice, Oral Expression, Environmental Issue, Oral Comprehension, Language Competency, Language Learning, Storytelling, Vocabulary, Culture, Writing, Grammar, Public History, Cultural Diversity

    Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    T

    Tsinghua University

    Learn English

    Skills you'll gain: Intercultural Competence, Cultural Diversity, Cultural Sensitivity, Mental Health, Learning Strategies, Culture, Stress Management, Liberal Arts, English Language, Literacy, Language Learning, Social Studies, Economics, Empathy & Emotional Intelligence, Language Competency, Interpersonal Communications, Psychology, Writing and Editing, Writing, Business Management

    4.3
    Rating, 4.3 out of 5 stars
    ·
    1K reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    U

    Università di Napoli Federico II

    English Advanced C1

    Skills you'll gain: Vocabulary, Oral Expression, English Language, Language Competency, Writing, Grammar, Literacy, Oral Comprehension, Language Learning, Liberal Arts, Media and Communications, Environmental Issue, Music, Economics

    4.3
    Rating, 4.3 out of 5 stars
    ·
    60 reviews

    Advanced · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    T

    The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

    Business English for Non-Native Speakers

    Skills you'll gain: Business Writing, Business Correspondence, Interviewing Skills, Business Communication, Case Studies, Business Ethics, Data Visualization, Oral Expression, English Language, Language Competency, Presentations, Target Audience, Report Writing, Writing, Business Analysis, Analysis, Communication Strategies, Verbal Communication Skills, Intercultural Competence, Communication

    4.5
    Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
    ·
    2.6K reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of Washington

    Business English: Making Presentations

    Skills you'll gain: Presentations, Sales Presentations, Oral Expression, Persuasive Communication, Public Speaking, Verbal Communication Skills, Data Visualization, Communication, Selling Techniques, English Language, Vocabulary

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    788 reviews

    Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    G

    Georgia Institute of Technology

    Speak English Professionally: In Person, Online & On the Phone

    Skills you'll gain: Oral Expression, Telephone Skills, Interviewing Skills, Presentations, Verbal Communication Skills, Sales Presentation, Cultural Sensitivity, Intercultural Competence, Non-Verbal Communication, Public Speaking, English Language, Vocabulary, Business Communication, Communication, Interpersonal Communications, Communication Strategies, Oral Comprehension

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    10K reviews

    Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of California, Irvine

    Essential English for Business Professionals

    Skills you'll gain: Presentations, English Language, Verbal Communication Skills, Communication, Non-Verbal Communication, Entrepreneurship, Business Communication, Sales, Interpersonal Communications, Sustainable Business, Project Management, Business Leadership, Communication Strategies, Productivity Software, Crisis Management, Marketing, Language Competency, Business, Vocabulary, Telecommuting

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    213 reviews

    Intermediate · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

What brings you to Coursera today?

1234…9

In summary, here are 10 of our most popular esl courses

  • Arizona State University TESOL: Arizona State University
  • Teaching EFL/ESL Reading: A Task Based Approach: University of London
  • Building Basic English Skills A1/A2: University of California, Davis
  • TESOL Certificate, Part 1: Teach English Now!: Arizona State University
  • English Intermediate B1: Università di Napoli Federico II
  • Learn English Now: Basic Communication: Arizona State University
  • Learn English: Tsinghua University
  • English Advanced C1: Università di Napoli Federico II
  • Business English for Non-Native Speakers: The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
  • Business English: Making Presentations: University of Washington

Frequently Asked Questions about Esl

ESL, or English as a Second Language, refers to the teaching and learning of English by non-native speakers. It is important because English is a global lingua franca, facilitating communication in various fields such as business, education, and travel. Proficiency in English can enhance job opportunities, improve access to information, and foster cultural exchange. For many learners, mastering ESL is a crucial step toward achieving personal and professional goals.‎

Pursuing a career in ESL can open doors to various job opportunities. Common roles include ESL teacher, language tutor, curriculum developer, and educational consultant. Additionally, positions in international business, translation, and interpretation often require strong English skills. With the growing demand for English proficiency worldwide, there are also opportunities in online teaching and educational technology.‎

To excel in ESL, learners should focus on several key skills. These include reading comprehension, writing proficiency, listening skills, and speaking fluency. Understanding grammar and vocabulary is essential, as is the ability to engage in conversations and discussions. Cultural awareness and sensitivity are also important, as they enhance communication and foster a supportive learning environment.‎

There are numerous online ESL courses available that cater to different learning needs and levels. Some highly regarded options include Teaching EFL/ESL Reading: A Task Based Approach and the Arizona State University TESOL Professional Certificate. These courses provide structured learning paths and practical skills that can help learners effectively teach or improve their own English proficiency.‎

Yes. You can start learning esl on Coursera for free in two ways:

  1. Preview the first module of many esl courses at no cost. This includes video lessons, readings, graded assignments, and Coursera Coach (where available).
  2. Start a 7-day free trial for Specializations or Coursera Plus. This gives you full access to all course content across eligible programs within the timeframe of your trial.

If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in esl, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.‎

Learning ESL can be approached through various methods. Start by enrolling in online courses, participating in language exchange programs, or practicing with native speakers. Consistent practice is key, so consider setting aside time each day for reading, writing, listening, and speaking in English. Utilizing language learning apps and engaging with English media, such as podcasts and movies, can also enhance your learning experience.‎

Typical topics covered in ESL courses include grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, reading comprehension, writing skills, and conversational English. Courses may also address specific contexts, such as business English or academic writing, to cater to learners' needs. Cultural aspects of language use, such as idioms and social norms, are often included to provide a well-rounded understanding of English communication.‎

For training and upskilling employees, ESL courses that focus on professional communication skills are particularly beneficial. Courses like the Arizona State University TESOL Professional Certificate can equip employees with the necessary tools to teach and improve English proficiency within the workplace. Tailored programs that address specific industry vocabulary and communication styles can also enhance workforce effectiveness.‎

This FAQ content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

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