Learn English as a second language (ESL)
Would you like to expand your career opportunities? Find out how learning English through English as a second language (ESL) online classes can help you land a job in a field you're passionate about.
Why learn ESL?
ESL is an educational term that applies to those who natively speak a different language but desire to learn English.
Completing a course or program in the English language can open doors for roles in another country or help you conduct business with English speakers in your country.
ESL job opportunities can be found in a number of sectors and industries, including business, education, healthcare, and government. You can choose your own time commitment and budget by deciding whether to enroll in a course, certification, or degree program.
Maximize Your Potential
Sign up for special offers, career resources, and recommendations that will help you grow, prepare, and advance in your career.
Browse online ESL courses
Related Topics
Choosing the right ESL program for you
From ESL online classes to a four-year degree program, there are multiple ways for you to learn English and apply that knowledge to your professional goals. Consider what you would like to do with your English language skills and use that information to select the best educational route.
Courses
ESL classes can be beneficial for beginning language learners and those who want to understand the nuances of English. Courses may be online and cover anything from the fundamentals of grammar and style to specific topics like conversational tones and business terminology.
Certifications
Certifications validate your skills in English writing and speaking for employers who may prefer or require it. Certification programs may cover reading and writing, conversation techniques, offering opinions, and communicating about your personal and professional traits.
Executive education programs
Executive education programs prepare current leaders to further excel in their careers. These programs may teach you about business writing and other forms of professional communication, or how to communicate to influence and impact others. It may also help you learn international business and how to engage with leaders around the world.
Degrees
A bachelor's or master's degree in English can serve those who wish to work with the language in a professional capacity as a teacher, journalist, editor, or similar role. Your degree program may cover literary analysis, composition, rhetoric, critical thinking, and effective communication.
Jobs in ESL
When you know two languages, you can leverage that knowledge to land roles in many industries and settings, from business offices to local classrooms and government agencies. Here are three jobs that may allow you to use your skillset once you have finished your ESL online classes.
Learn ESL online with edX
Learning English can help you expand your professional horizons. Explore English degree programs or sign up for an online course to get started on your journey.
More opportunities for you to learn
We've added 500+ learning opportunities to create one of the world's most comprehensive free-to-degree online learning platforms.