English as a Second Language

Students who do not speak English as a first language may want to select sections that are tailored to their needs. Specialized ESL courses in the Freshman English sequence (English 101 and 102) are designed to offer extra guidance into writing and speaking English. These courses, however, are identical to the regular English 101, and 102 courses. Students learn the same content and skills. The difference is that these courses are taught by a teacher who has been specially trained to work with ESL students.

Interested students who have not completed a college-level course in English composition, including graduates of UNM's CELAC program, should write a diagnostic placement essay. On the basis of this essay, the Director of the ESL Writing Program will place students in the appropriate first course. The diagnostic essay takes approximately one hour and can be arranged by contacting the Freshman English Academic Advisor:

Dee Dee Lopez
Academic Advisor for Undergraduates
Humanities 213
(505) 277-6349
delopez@unm.edu