Program Components

The program consists of two related parts: classroom instruction and activities.

Classroom instruction takes place each weekday morning, while activities are offered in the afternoon.  The entire curriculum is designed not only to improve English-language proficiency but also to provide an awareness and appreciation of American culture – especially that of the Los Angeles area.

Morning Classes

Classes meet daily, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 12 noon.

Speaking and Listening (9-10:20 a.m.)

This class focuses on helping students improve their listening, comprehension and speaking skills, so that they will be well prepared to converse with English-speakers and understand daily discussions as well as television shows and films. These classes, which are interactive and fun, also increase vocabulary and enhance overall English proficiency in ways that can be applied immediately.

Culture and Conversation (10:30 a.m.-12 noon)

This class familiarizes students with American life and culture. During these sessions, students improve their conversation skills by participating in a variety of interactive activities, including games, role-playing, online exercises and discussions and debates related to American customs, culture, history and everyday-life.

Optional Afternoon Activities

In the afternoon, students participate in a number of activities that enable them to practice their English outside of the classroom. Typical afternoon activities include the following:

• Conversations with native English-speakers
• Visits to university classes
• Participation in campus cultural, social or sports events
• Real-life English practice, such as shopping in local stores, eating at nearby restaurants, or being in the audience during the taping of a television show
• Visits to the Student Recreation Center (SRC)

Note: Activities vary from session to session

Popular Optional Excursions

Because CSUN is part of Greater Los Angeles, many of the area's best-known attractions are less than an hour from campus. The following are among the most popular optional excursion destinations for visiting student groups.

• Beverly Hills
• Disneyland and Disney California Adventure
• The Getty Center Museum
• Hollywood and the Farmer's Market
• Los Angeles tour
• Magic Mountain amusement park
• Malibu, Santa Monica and Venice Beach
• Santa Barbara (city and beach)
• Universal Studios

Upon request, we can help arrange overnight excursions to other destinations in the Western United States, such as San Francisco, San Diego, Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon. Additional fees apply to all optional excursions.

The ELCE program is carefully designed to link classroom learning with real-life activities. Students not only enhance their English-language skills but also gain a deeper appreciation for the many cultures that contribute to the American experience.