Where to Study English in Detroit?

If you’re hoping to study English in Detroit or nearby, there are many options.  International students, business executives, and professionals often choose a Detroit school for improving English language skills, whether you’re hoping to enhance your mastery for education, life, or work in the United States. 

English as a Second Language (ESL) and English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) programs help non-native English speakers accomplish language goals.  Various programs in Detroit and surrounding areas offer beginner to advanced classes, intensive programs, test or university prep, and support students as they adapt to life in the United States. 

While Michigan is an excellent place to learn English, it’s also wonderful to live.  Its cost of living is lower than the national average, and there are many job opportunities.  When you aren’t studying, Detroit and nearby cities are fun to explore.  There’s an eclectic food and arts scene, sporting events, and activities for nature enthusiasts.

Whether you want to study English in Detroit or head to a smaller city nearby, there are many opportunities.  Below, we’ll share public and private colleges, universities, and other English programs in the Detroit area.

Public College & University with English Programs

Detroit and the surrounding metro area are home to several public universities and colleges.  Whether you’re looking for a leading university or a community college, there are ample schools to improve your English skills, no matter your goals.

  • Wayne State University is Michigan’s third-largest university and is conveniently close to Downtown Detroit.  Its English Language Institute (https://oip.wayne.edu/eli) is also the only intensive English language program in the metropolitan Detroit area.  Students can learn academic preparation skills, English communication, and cultural orientation.  If you want to prepare for a university program, work, or life in the U.S., this program is excellent.
  • Schoolcraft College (https://www.schoolcraft.edu/ppl/classes-schedules/english-as-a-second-language/) is a public community college in Livonia, less than half an hour from Detroit’s city center.  The ESL program helps prepare students to attend an American college.  Instruction helps you learn English vocabulary, speaking, listening, and reading skills.  You can also get support with test prep and daily living. 
  • Macomb Community College (https://www.macomb.edu/programs-courses/programs/english-academic-purposes.html) is also just outside of the city and offers programs to help you learn various language skills, including reading, writing, speaking, and researching.  There are two programs for ESL courses, the Workforce and Continuing Education program and English for Academic Purposes.  Students take an ESL placement course to determine which is best to start with.
  • Michigan State University (MSU) is a leading university in East Lansing, about an hour and a half from Detroit.  MSU is an excellent school for learning English if you’re looking to be near Detroit but close to nature too.  The English Language Center (https://elc.msu.edu/) offers various levels of instruction to meet you where you are.  Programs include Intensive English courses, customized curriculum, and online learning.
  • The University of Michigan (U-M) is the oldest and largest in Michigan, and it’s located in Ann Arbor, a bustling city less than an hour from Detroit.  U-M is also one of the highest-ranked universities in the country.  Its English Language Institute (https://lsa.umich.edu/eli) allows ESL students to gain English mastery, learn about local culture, and experience informal conversations with native English speakers.
  • Washtenaw Community College (WCC) (https://www.wccnet.edu/start-now/esl.php) is a large, 2-year community college also in Ann Arbor.  WCC offers several courses for ESL students to help you achieve the level of English proficiency needed for your personal and professional goals.  There are various opportunities, including individual classes and an ESL certificate program.  Students are placed in a level that best suits them, from high-beginner to advanced.
  • Lansing Community College (LCC) is one of Michigan’s largest community colleges, with more than 17,000 students.  It’s conveniently located in the vibrant Downtown Lansing area, about an hour and a half from Detroit.  The ESOL program at LCC (https://www.lcc.edu/community/job-training-center/esol/) helps Low Intermediate speakers build on their language skills.  If you’re not ready for this level of courses yet, LCC also offers a low-intermediate, non-credit course to help you prepare. 

 

Private Universities with English Programs

If you’re interested in attending a private university, there are a couple of options in and near Detroit.

  • University of Detroit Mercy (UDM) is the largest Catholic university in Michigan, and its American Language and Culture Program (ALCP) (https://www.udmercy.edu/life/iso/alcp.php) provides an excellent opportunity to study English in Detroit.  Students can develop English language skills to successfully study at UDM.  That said, the ALCP isn’t a stand-alone program, and students must apply for and be accepted into a degree program at UDM to receive ALCP coursework to enhance their English skills. 
  • Cleary University (https://www.cleary.edu/admissions/international-students/) is a private school in Howell, MI, about an hour from Detroit.  Cleary is an excellent option if you’re interested in a business-related career.  Students can participate in a traditional college experience at Cleary University and receive help with registration and beyond.  If you’re not quite ready for a university program, you can work towards your language requirements with Michigan Language Center’s online English classes through the Cleary Online Pathway Program.  This program is designed for students who are conditionally accepted to Cleary University.

 

Other English Schools & Programs

There are also language centers if you want to study English in Detroit or nearby without attending college or university.  These accredited programs offer various possibilities for learning English to prepare for university, work, or other pursuits.

  • Language Center International (LCI) (https://www.languagecenter.us/) is a professional, accredited school just outside of Detroit in Southfield.  There are various ESL classes and other services for international students, including translations, interpretations, and individualized instruction.  LCI also provides resources to help students find housing and employment. 
  • Michigan Language Center (MLC) (https://www.englishclasses.com/) is the oldest private English language school in Ann Arbor.  More than 50,000 students have attended MLC to improve their English skills.  You can join an Intensive English Program, part-time classes, or a pathway program to university.  MLC also helps with test prep skills and housing arrangements.

Other things to consider:

 

We Can Help if You Need Assistance

Please contact our company if you are interested in studying English in Detroit or have questions about the Detroit area. Using our network of colleges and universities in the United States, we may be able to help you select the right school for your specific educational goals.  Please email Michael at michael@visasupply.com if you have questions or require assistance.