
English Language Learning Certificate Program
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Self-paced with interactive learning assessments
240K+ Alumni worldwide
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Develop Your English Language Skills to Further Your Success
English is the global language of business. National University’s English Language Learning (ELL) Program meets the needs of each student by offering three certificate levels based upon a student’s English proficiency. The certificates are designed for non-native English speakers who want to learn English and improve their professional and workplace communication skills. The program also offers advanced academic prep courses for learners who want to develop the academic skills needed to pursue a degree at National University.
Key Benefits:
- 100% online 4-week courses
- Synchronous sessions to practice speaking English
- Opportunity to gain college credits
- Improve English communication skills at work, school, and in social settings
- Increase opportunities for career advancement and pay increases
Designed to Meet Your English Learning Needs
The English Language Learning Certificate Program offers three certificate levels to meet you wherever you are on your language learning journey. Students registering for Level 2 or 3 must complete a 30-minute language Level Test in the Orientation and Assessment course to place you in the right program for you.
Orientation and Assessment
Assessment Fee: $50
Estimated Time of Completion: 3 hours
- Students registering for Level 2 or 3 must complete the Level Test.
- The Level Test assesses Reading, Writing, Speaking, and Listening in just 30 minutes.
- Students receive a Global Scale of English (GSE) score range.
Level 1: English Language Learning: Basic English Certificate
- Global Scale of English (GSE) Test score less than 30.
- Certificate Cost: $699.
- Estimated Time of Completion: 12 months.
The Basic English Certificate Course helps you build a strong foundation in the English language and enhance your communication abilities. Whether you are a student, a professional, or someone interested in learning English as a second language, the bite-sized course modules are for you. The course is powered by EnGen, a comprehensive language upskilling program that covers essential language skills for beginners.
Level 2: English Language Learning Certificate: Communication for the Workplace Certificate
- Global Scale of English (GSE) Test score between 30 – 58.
- Certificate Cost: $1750.
- Estimated Time of Completion: 12 months.
English Communication for the Workplace includes 24 career-themed courses. Each 4-week course is offered online with instructor-led live sessions in the morning and afternoon Monday-Friday. Students must complete 12 required courses to earn the English Language Learning Certificate: Communication for the Workplace.
National University Professional Certificates do not qualify for federal financial aid
Level 3: English Language Learning: English for Academic Purposes Certificate
- Global Scale of English (GSE) Test Score 59 – 90.
- Certificate Cost: $4,500
- Estimated Time of Completion: 6 – 8 months.
English for Academic Purposes includes up to 8 academic prep courses that must be taken in order. Each 4-week course is offered online with opportunities to interact with an instructor and practice using the language. Students develop the academic language, knowledge, and skills required to pursue a degree at National University.
Undergraduate candidates must successfully complete the first 6 courses to earn the English Language Learning Certificate: English for Academic Purposes. Graduate candidates must complete all 8 courses. English for Academic Purposes provides a pathway to college credit, with some offering academic credit transfer once you are admitted into National University.
National University Professional Certificates do not qualify for federal financial aid

Flexible Courses
Our course structure is built to make earning your certificate accessible and achievable so you can start sooner and finish faster.
For More Information
Email or call WES Professional and Continuing Education at PACE@nu.edu or 805-200-2332 for more information about the English Language Learning Program.

Why National University?
National University is the one online university that takes a holistic, whole-human approach to student well-being. It means we’ll be with you side-by-side, every step of the way, breaking any barriers you face in achieving your education. Our supportive ecosystem measures success across five support pillars, including academic, financial, social/emotional, career, and family life.
At NU, you’ll be part of a family: a connected, engaged, and inspired community of students from across the country and around the globe. From the day you start your first class, you’ll have the support of our faculty and staff, backed by a diverse community of students and alums, who can help you reach your educational and professional goals.

“National University has impacted my career. You can immediately apply what you learn in class to your business.”
Francisco R.,
Class of 2016
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