Where to Study English in Raleigh?

Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill are three cities, all within an hour's drive of one another.  This area is known as the Research Triangle because each city has a major research university. 

The Research Triangle is also among the best areas in the United States to attend school and improve English mastery.  There are various opportunities for international students, business executives, and professionals to study English in Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill. 

There are many English as a Second Language (ESL) and English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) programs to help you achieve your language goals, whether you hope to enhance your mastery for college, university, work, or life in the U.S.

Colleges, universities, and other institutions in the Research Triangle have beginner to advanced classes, intensive programs, test or university preparation, and support for students adapting to local culture.

Raleigh is one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States.  Not only is it among the top places for jobs, but The Research Triangle also has many activities to enjoy and a unique outdoor scene.

Raleigh is best for city life, while Chapel Hill is a smaller college town, and Durham has a blend of both city life and the youthful energy of a college town.  

Below, we’ll share colleges, universities, and other programs to study English in the Research Triangle.  We’ll also discuss what programs each institution offers and how you can prepare to learn English mastery in the United States.

Public College and University English Programs

The Raleigh-Durham area is home to several reputable colleges and universities that offer a traditional college experience and ample opportunities to study English for various goals. 

  • North Carolina State University (NCSU) (https://intensive-english.ncsu.edu/about/about-the-iep/) has many options for ESL students to study English in Raleigh and prepare for education and work in the U.S.  NCSU’s in-person Intensive English Program (IEP) occurs during fall, spring, or summer.  The IEP offers three levels of instruction based on your skills and helps you build strong academic, cultural, and technological mastery.  NCSU also provides writing, conversation, pronunciation, and test prep courses. 
  • Durham Technical Community College (https://www.durhamtech.edu/continuing-education/english-second-language-esl) is a small institution with free ESL courses that range from beginner to advanced.  You can learn various skills, including listening, speaking, reading, writing, and conversation.  You can also take programs for academic credit to learn English for continued education, working, and culture immersion.
  • Wake Technical Community College is a public community school in Raleigh with an ESL program (https://www.waketech.edu/programs-courses/non-credit/strengthen-basic-skills/esl).  The program offers English instruction to adult students who want to prepare for college and career readiness.  Classes are offered online or in-person and include ESL, citizen preparation, college and career readiness.  You can also learn technology, civics, and workplace skills.
  • The University of North Carolina (UNC) at Chapel Hill (https://admissions.unc.edu/apply/international-students/) was the first-ever public university in the United States and has been named a leading school for centuries.  UNC accepts international students with some level of English proficiency into the undergraduate program.  If you’re still learning basic English skills, UNC offers various programs, including mini-courses and writing and speaking groups to help you prepare for academic studies.

 

Private University English Programs

There are a few excellent choices if you're looking for a private university option to study English in the Research Triangle.  Each of these offers diverse course options and accommodations.

  • William Peace University (WPU) is conveniently in the center of Raleigh, and its international program (https://www.peace.edu/admissions-aid/apply/international-students/) is ideal for students who have some level of English mastery and want a traditional college experience.  After you pass an English proficiency test, you can enroll in an academic program at WPU.
  • Duke University is a well-renowned private research university in Durham, and its English for International Students (EIS) program (https://gradschool.duke.edu/academics/english-international-students/) helps you prepare for graduate study.  EIS provides individualized language instruction, advising, and assessment.  ESL students can also receive writing and speaking support to improve their English mastery.
  • North Carolina Wesleyan College (NCWC) is a private institution in Durham with an ESL course (https://catalog.ncwc.edu/preview_course_nopop.php?catoid=2&coid=1013) that helps students enhance writing, reading, speaking, and listening skills.  Students must take the TOEFL before admission.  The course helps you prepare for college-level work and is taken during your first academic semester at NCWC.

 

Other English Programs

Explore other English programs where you can take classes to help you improve your English language skills and prepare for college, life, or work.

  • The English Learning Institute (ELI) (https://elinc.edu/) in Raleigh offers an Academic English Program (AEP) that helps students enhance educational, technological, and cultural opportunities.  Students can take academic English classes, learn various English skills, and take a 5-level program to prepare for university or college.  ELI also offers test prep and wellness resources, including a health center and gym.
  • Durham Literacy Center (https://www.durhamliteracy.org/) is a good option for an introduction to English.  The center provides many basic English learning courses and college and career readiness workshops.

Other things to consider:

 

We Can Help if You Need Assistance

Please contact our company if you are interested in studying English in the Raleigh-Durham area or have questions about the Raleigh-Durham 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.