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ESL Center



Corporate ESL Instruction


The ESL Center at Oakland University offers custom-designed instruction in English language and American culture. Our courses are for business professionals and their families as well as for the general public, and we address the needs of all proficiency levels. Courses can be arranged at the university or on-site in the workplace. Industry-specific materials are also provided.

The Center is a component of the Department of Linguistics and offers state-of-the-art multimedia technology and language laboratory facilities. Teachers are experienced professionals with degrees in second language theory and linguistics. Active research within the department ensures up-to-date methodology and quality instruction.

Language Skills

Workshops and classes provide practice in the production and comprehension of American English for all proficiency levels (beginning, intermediate and advanced). Instruction is focused on developing the following task-specific skills:

  • Pronunciation and accent reduction
  • Conversation
  • Grammar and usage
  • Reading and writing

Practical Skills

Workshops and classes are designed to acquaint individuals with the local cultural context, helping them to feel comfortable in a wide range of social situations. Emphasis is on:

  • Social customs
  • Traditions, fads and fashions
  • Conversation
  • Etiquette and other day-to-day activities

Business and Professional Skills

Workshops and classes are geared toward individuals with intermediate or advanced English language proficiency. They are desigend to provide career-specific communication skills to meet the needs of particular clients. Available options include:

  • Technical vocabulary
  • Oral presentation techniques
  • Business writing essentials
  • Orientation to American business culture
  • Industry-specific materials and cases for discussion
  • Role-playing to simulate actual business situations