The Intensive English Language Program (IELP) provides non-native English speakers with specific language skills to prepare them for entering a U.S. university or the global marketplace. University of San Diego's English Language Academy (ELA) maintains a rigorous academic course of study, with a focus on five core skills and TOEFL preparation. Many of our successful graduates have gone on to undergraduate and graduate programs across the country.
Who Should Attend: International students who are considering entering a U.S. university or the global marketplace.
Materials and Textbooks: costs of materials and textbooks are included in the tuition.
Accommodations: Students may have an opportunity to stay in the university’s student residence halls. They are modern, clean and comfortable apartments, generally for eight students in twin-study bedrooms with two communal bathrooms and a living area. Each residence has its own reception area, round-the-clock security, vending machines and laundry facilities. Residential students have full-board which includes three meals per day. Campus housing is not available for the Short Term Intensive English Language Program.
Instructors: USD faculty and experienced practitioners provide a stimulating and participative learning environment. All instructors have earned a Master's Degree or higher.
Number of Sessions: 44
Textbooks/materials are included in the price of tuition. Application Fee ($200) is non-refundable.
There are no classes during Spring and Easter Break; March 30-April 6, 2026.
This course requires an application process to be completed prior to enrollment. Note: this process requires a non-refundable $200 payment.
Number of Sessions: 54
Textbooks/materials are included in the price of tuition; Application Fee ($200) is non-refundable.
Number of Sessions: 29
Number of Sessions: 74
No classes during the Thanksgiving Break; November 25-27, 2026.
Number of Sessions: 39
Of note: at the English Language Academy, Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs) are specific to each skill/level.
Professional development courses offered by the University of San Diego’s Division of Professional & Continuing Education are taught by faculty that possess a depth and breadth of academic and real-world professional experience.
The Professional and Continuing Education program nurtures key partnerships on the local, national, and international level. The goal is to better serve working professionals who seek to enhance or build their careers and help achieve their highest value and potential. Contact us today to learn more.
High-quality, career-building courses to choose from
In-depth, innovative, and relevant topics
Career advancing certificates
Courses offer a convenient, yet rigorous style of learning that allows you to structure your education to suit your schedule while keeping you on pace toward achieving your educational.
These on-campus courses are offered in a traditional classroom where you can connect with your instructor and classmates in a live setting. This learning environment facilitates communication in real time, enables immediate feedback and fosters face-to-face interaction with the instructor and classmates. Classroom courses have a scheduled start and finish date, and students are expected to attend all course sessions.
Our individualized, skill-based placement system stimulates dynamic learning for students of varying levels of language proficiency with instruction that is tailored to their unique needs.
Our faculty and staff engage students from around the globe in an enriching, high-quality educational experience where they also build friendships that help stimulate academic success.
Our mission is to help each student thrive while developing the English language skills that position them to achieve personal, professional and academic goals.
Make your dreams come true of studying English in the United States at the English Language Academy.