The Online Vocational English as a Second Language (VESL) program

The Online Vocational English as a Second Language (VESL) program is designed to help students improve their job prospects in the U.S. You can easily access the program from anywhere, anytime, making it an innovative way to enhance your language skills.

Accreditation & Certification

Accredited by the Council on Occupational Education

  • Eligible for the FAFSA support
Certified by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV)

Program

  • 60-week English program geared towards immigrants and refugees
  • Accredited by Council on Occupational Education (COE
  • Financial Aid available (Pell Grant and/or Loan)
  • Columbia College Presidential Scholarship available
  • Placement test and Exit-test from Michigan Language Assessment (CaMLA test)
  • Rental tablets provided to students to students as a learning tool
  • High job placement rate upon the completion of the program
  • Eight Levels
    • Beginners – 101/102
    • Intermediate – 201/202
    • Advanced – 301/302
    • High Advanced – 401/402

Canvas

Canvas is an online, self-study platform. The benefits of Canvas include:

  • Flexibility: Self-study online English programs allow learners to study at their own pace and convenience.
  • Accessibility: With just an internet connection, learners can access a wealth of resources from anywhere in the world.
  • Continuous learning: Online platforms enable learners to continuously practice and improve their English skills.
  • Variety of resources: Online platforms provide a wide range of materials, including videos, exercises, quizzes, and discussions.

Homeroom Class

The HR (homeroom) classes are two-hour zoom classes, taking place twice a week, with a live instructor. The classes are available five days a week (Monday to Friday) throughout the entire day from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm EST. There are 8 levels. The students have 10 weeks to complete each level and move up or repeat. The students can repeat a level two times and the program is 60 weeks long. Homeroom Teachers will connect with students weekly via Zoom to:

  • Instruct in practical English skills
  • Encourage active participation
  • Maintain student motivation
  • Offer valuable feedback
  • Meet our Homeroom teachers by clicking here.

Course Description

Level Description

101 – Beginners I & 102 – Beginners II

 The elementary level uses modern methods to introduce students to oral and written forms of English. Students can practice speaking, listening, and writing.

201 – Intermediate I & 202 – Intermediate II

 The intermediate level continues to give students more opportunities to improve their English abilities in speaking and listening, and meanwhile introduces students to the basic skills of academic reading and writing; for example, how to locate main ideas, skim, and find context clues. The focus of writing at this level is to develop paragraphs with appropriate thesis statements. In addition, writing processes such as introduction, body and conclusion will also be introduced.

301 – Advanced I & 302 – Advanced II

The advanced level strives to enhance students’ English ability in speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Students will be exposed to common idioms, including oral and written forms, and they are also introduced to academic research in reading and writing.

Students will have the opportunity to research and to write about a topic. At this level, they will learn how to find and cite sources for their research papers.

401 – High-Advanced I & 402 – High-Advanced II

 This level introduces English listening and speaking skills required in academia and the workplace. The students will practice writing and discuss topics in different subjects. In reading and writing, students will be presented with various types of academic genres and practice reading skills, such as positioning key ideas, understanding charts and graphs, and adjusting speed accordingly.

Staff

Name Email
Jennifer Kim (director) jenniferK@ccdc.edu
Arsida Rexhepi arsidar@ccdc.edu
Bruno Moraes brunom@ccdc.edu
Cohen Boren cohenb@ccdc.edu
Jay Kim jayk1@ccdc.edu
Tahera Kabulzad taherak@ccdc.edu
Wend Tsai wendt@ccdc.edu
Winny Alizadeh winnya@ccdc.edu

Instructors

Antonio Lima

Certificate: TESOL (Teaching English as a Second Language)
Degree: M.A. in Bilingual Education.

Toni is particularly skilled in helping students develop their analytical and critical thinking skills through the study of classical and contemporary texts. His approachable demeanor and ability to connect with students of diverse backgrounds make his classes a welcoming environment where every student feels encouraged to participate and express themselves.

Christina Sapp

Certificate: TESOL (Teaching English as a Second Language)
Degree: M.S. in Early Childhood Education, M.S. in Higher Education with major in Integrative Studies

I have been an educator for over twenty years. In my professional role I have taught all levels of students from elementary school through college. Currently I work with students at the secondary level as well as college level. In my free time I enjoy traveling, spending time with my family, and journaling.

Shamima Nasreen

Certificate: TESOL (Teaching English as a Second Language)
Degree: M.A. in Professional Studies in Education.

Shamima is known for her approachable demeanor; she excels at making complex texts accessible and fostering a love for reading and critical thinking among his students.

Tracey Stinger

Certificate: TESOL (Teaching English as a Second Language)
Degree: B.A. in Mass Communications, A.S. in Social Sciences

A professional with over 15 years of teaching experience in the areas of English, Language Arts, and TESOL. I have a strong commitment to helping every generation succeed and it is a privilege to help build the future.

Tahera Khavari

Degree: M.A. in Teaching English as a Foreign Language.

Tahera specializes in teaching English as a second language, focusing on creating an inclusive environment that supports diverse learners.