About
English Language Learning (ELL) supports multilingual international students in developing their English language skills and navigating academic and cultural contexts at Emerson and beyond. We celebrate our global and multilingual community while helping students hone their communication skills for academic, professional, and personal success and growth. ELL provides English diagnostics, courses, and programming for students, as well as training for faculty and staff in supporting international and multilingual students.
English Language Diagnostic
All international students who applied to Emerson without a Waiver for English Proficiency will complete Emerson’s English Language Diagnostic. Please see the Admissions webpage “Applying as an International Student - Testing and English Language Proficiency Requirement” for details about the Waiver for English Proficiency.
Emerson’s English Language Diagnostic is different from English proficiency exams submitted for admission, such as TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, etc. Admissions exams provide a broad measure of proficiency, while the purpose of Emerson’s diagnostic is to more specifically identify and assess the English skills critical to success within Emerson’s unique academic environment. Students will receive an invitation to complete the diagnostic before they begin their first semester of coursework. Once the diagnostic is completed, students will receive detailed results, including individually tailored ELL course placements and recommendations.
ELL Courses
ELL courses offer a great opportunity for students to develop English skills and confidence. All courses are free, open to currently enrolled graduate and undergraduate students, and offered through the department of Communication Studies.
Talk to your advisor or contact the Director of ELL learning at Emerson, Amy Rinaldo (amy_rinaldo [at] emerson.edu (amy_rinaldo[at]emerson[dot]edu)) for more information or to enroll.
CC 329/610: ELL Seminar in Pronunciation, Basic Public Speaking, and American Culture
Students develop, learn and practice American English pronunciation skills while learning basic presentation techniques and American culture.
CC 327/613: Seminar in Leadership and Business English
Students learn and practice advanced business and academic language skills most commonly used in the United States. Emphasis is on improving presentation and discussion facilitation skills.
CC 328/611: ELL Global Dialogues
Students develop confidence in public speaking through leading class dialogues on current events, conducting a speech, and working in groups to create broadcast news stories. The class will offer practical and theoretical approaches to evaluate and improve English language use.
CC 325/614: ELL Writing Workshop
Students will explore a variety of writing strategies to improve writing ability in English. Students will engage in regular writing to practice applying individualized strategies to their work and will have the opportunity to select writing tasks from relevant courses for critical analysis and practice.
CC 326/612: Academic Writing for International Students: Exploration of Academic Writing
Students master the structure, organization, and goals of academic English writing assignments. Through two main writing projects students concentrate on creating outlines, drafting, use and citation of sources, peer review, and revision.
RISE: ELL Resources for Students
Check out ELL’s resources webpage “RISE” for useful tips and materials for adjusting to academics and culture in the US.
Language and Culture Events
- English Language Learning and the Office of International Student Affairs coordinate many opportunities for international students to connect with classmates and to explore language, culture, and our Boston surroundings. Language Cafes: social get-togethers that are open to all and provide space to meet fellow students, hear from guest speakers, enjoy snacks, and engage in cultural exchange and discussion around special topics.
- OISA Graduate Student Events: social activities for the international graduate student community
- International Education Week: led by Emerson’s Education Abroad and Domestic Programs, this is a nation-wide celebration of the benefits of international education and exchange, highlighted at Emerson each November with a week full of exciting events.
- World Languages Week: International Mother Language Day is celebrated worldwide each year on February 21st as a day to promote multilingualism and linguistic and cultural diversity. At Emerson we observe the week around Mother Language Day with “World Languages Week,” featuring exciting events celebrating language exchange, language learning, and our multilingual community.
Check the EmConnect website, the weekly OISA Events email, and @emersonoisa on Instagram for all of our upcoming events.
ELL Office Hours
Students with questions about language, communication, and academic or cultural adjustment can arrange one-on-one ELL consultations with ELL Associate Director Amy Rinaldo. Visit Calendly or email amy_rinaldo [at] emerson.edu (amy_rinaldo[at]emerson[dot]edu) to schedule a time to meet virtually. In-person office hours can be arranged upon request.
Resources for Faculty & Staff
Visit ELL’s webpage: RISE (Resources for International Student Engagement) for teaching tips, materials, and recommended reading regarding international student support.
Specific questions about supporting international and multilingual students at Emerson? ELL Associate Director Amy Rinaldo is happy to chat - visit Calendly or email amy_rinaldo [at] emerson.edu (amy_rinaldo[at]emerson[dot]edu) to schedule a time.