English Language Center

Teaching that Meets Your Needs

The Wilkes University English Language Center offers an assortment of programs to meet the varying needs of adult English-language learners.

You will find our programming challenging and enjoyable, and our classes and curriculum demanding and fun. Develop critical thinking, academic and professional skills as you learn from teachers who are well trained, highly experienced and truly dedicated to their students. Advance your skills and learn to succeed in an English-speaking and multicultural world.

Our ELC program has been recognized among the best in the United States. We are accredited by the Commission on English Language Program Accreditation (CEA).  In addition, the Wilkes ELC is a member of UCIEP, the highest standards organization of English Language Programs. Of nearly 800 programs nationwide, Wilkes is among just 67 schools to receive such recognition.

100%

of students continue on to undergraduate or graduate studies and/or achieve professional goals

10

countries represented

20

average years of teaching experience by faculty

Programs that Meet Your Goals

Students on campus

Learn English

Quickly develop fluency in the English language and American culture in as little as one semester. Our Intensive English Program is designed to improve listening, speaking, reading and writing skills to prepare you for your enrollment at Wilkes or another American university.

Students walking through gateway on campus

Prepare for University Study

Our flexible University Preparatory Program, offered online and on campus, will equip you to succeed in U.S. university study and in life.

Wilkes students whitewater rafting

Au-Pair English

Work closely with other students as you develop critical thinking, academic and professional skills. We offer multiple opportunities to obtain the 60 hours or 72 hours/6 credits au pairs need while you learn from our dedicated, highly experienced teachers and fun, challenging curriculum.

Special Programs

The English Language Center provides specially designed programs for groups, including a variety of English for Specific Purposes (ESP), short-term academic and teacher training programs.

Student in classrooom

The teachers are wonderful. When I came here, I wondered if I would miss my family. But when I see the teachers and meet with them during office hours, they help me with any difficulties. They are like my second family.

Raad Alosaimi | IEP Program Student

When I came to this program I did not know how to write a complete sentence in English, much less say it. With time, practice and the help of my teachers, I am now able to start a conversation and organize my ideas better.

Hector Lange Aparicio | Biochemistry '25, IEP Program '21

The English Language Center will always have a place in my heart...You will find a top-quality academic program taught by expert instructors who are passionate about helping students learn English.

Khadija Albardweel | Nursing '26, IEP Program '21

Our Mission

The Wilkes University English Language Center provides English for academic and professional programming which supports the core Wilkes values of mentorship, scholarship, diversity, innovation and community.

Our Goals

  • Supply state-of-the-art, individualized English language instruction to meet learners’ language, cultural and professional goals.
  • Empower students to successfully function in English in a multicultural and diverse world.
  • Serve Wilkes University faculty and departments, by providing programs which meet the needs of their English learning students.
  • Provide highly qualified faculty who encourage academic success and provide leadership in the areas of intercultural understanding and cooperation.

Tuition and Costs

2024-2025

Category Cost
Tuition & Fees $10,400
Living Expenses $16,174
Miscellaneous
(Books, Health Insurance, Travel)
$3,000
Total Estimated Costs $29,574

* Please contact us for rates if you are a U.S. citizen or resident.

Category Cost
Tuition & Fees $21,748
Living Expenses $8,087
Miscellaneous
(Books, Health Insurance, Travel)
$1,500
Total Estimated Costs $31,335

Tuition for Au Pair classes is $250 per class.

Price for our special programs is to be arranged.

Contact Us!

For more information about the English Language Center, please contact:

Dr. Kimberly Niezgoda

Director and TESOL Program Coordinator
English Language Center

Weckesser Annex 2B
kimberly.niezgoda@freoreport.net
(570) 408-4170

CEA Information

Standards & Policies

CEA Standards & Policies can be reviewed below.

Review CEA Standards & Policies (.pdf)

Complaints

A program or institution that is accredited by the Commission on English Language Program Accreditation must continue to meet the CEA Standards for English Language Programs and Institutions throughout its period of accreditation. To ensure such compliance, CEA provides the public the opportunity to report any evidence that the standards are not being met.

CEA Complaint Policy external website