Full-time Intensive English Program
- In-person, daytime classes
- Available to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and applicants eligible for F-1 sponsorship.
- 20 hours per week
- 8-week sessions
English as a Second Language
Take the Next Step
Welcome to the English Language Institute
Whether you're preparing for university, advancing your career, or improving your everyday English, the English Language Institute offers programs designed to help you achieve your goals.
We offer full-time, part-time, evening, and online English programs for students from around the world.
Find the English Program That Fits Your Goals
Whether you want to study English full-time, take individual courses, attend evening classes, study online, or complete educational requirements as an au pair, Sacred Heart University has an ESL option for you.
Part-time Daytime ESL Program
- In-person, daytime classes
- Not available to students in F-1 status
- 40 instructional hours per course
- 8-week sessions
Evening ESL Program
- In-person evening classes
- Ideal for working professionals, au pairs, and other non-F-1 students
- One course per semester
- 75 instructional hours per course
- Fall, spring, and summer sessions
Au Pair ESL Program
- Daytime and evening class options
- Classes for all English proficiency levels
- Meets required instructional hours for J-1 au pairs
- Special tuition rates available for au pairs
Online ESL Program
- 100% online, asynchronous learning
- Self-paced coursework with instructor feedback
- No scheduled live classes or instructor meetings
- Available to students in the U.S. and internationally
- Contact the Online ESL
Why Choose ELI?
Our ESL Programs are designed to help students develop English proficiency and essential skills for transitioning into academic programs or degree paths. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Innovative Curriculum Integrating Modern Technology
- Small Classes & Experienced Faculty
- Individual Tutoring & Academic Support
- Cultural Excursions & Community Experiences
- Conversation Partners
- Full Access to SHU Campus Resources
- Student Clubs & Campus Activities
Frequently Asked Questions
Our Mission
The mission of the Sacred Heart English Language Institute is to provide excellent instruction in English as a Second Language (ESL) and orientation in US culture to all students who are non-native speakers of English, to help them achieve their personal, academic and professional goals, while recognizing and addressing the students’ individualized educational needs and cultural backgrounds.
Accreditation
CEA
The Intensive English Language Program at Sacred Heart’s English Language Institute is accredited by the Commission on English Language Program Accreditation (CEA) for the period April 2019 through April 2028 and agrees to uphold the CEA Standards for English Language Programs and Institutions.
EnglishUSA
EnglishUSA is an organization for Intensive English Language Programs in the USA. Its mission is to provide support, standards and advocacy for intensive English programs.
Follow Us
Contact the English Language Institute
Aliss Obeid, ESL Program Director
at SHU
You Belong
Sacred Heart University is your home and you belong here.