The Center for the Global Learner seeks to lead, foster, and facilitate global engagement and intercultural understanding.

English as a Second Language

Durham Tech offers courses in English as a Second Language (ESL) to non-native speakers at several locations in Durham and Orange counties. Courses are free, and students must be at least 18 years of age or older to enroll. All new ESL students must first take a placement exam.

View the English as a Second Language (ESL) Program Overview web page for more information, including class schedules and placement testing dates.

Continuing Education for Non-Native Speakers

Durham Tech offers additional noncredit, fee-based courses in Continuing Education for Non-Native Speakers (Beyond Basic ESL) for students whose proficiency is beyond the basic ESL program. 

View the Beyond Basic ESL (BBESL) Program Overview web page for more information, including class offerings and fees.

English for Academic Purposes

English for Academic Purposes (EAP) is a program designed to help students improve their skills in U.S. Academic English. Students entering this program already have the basics of English (or speak another variation of English), but need to improve their college-level reading, writing, research, grammar, listening, and speaking skills. 

Translation/Interpretation Programs

Durham Tech offers Public Service and Medical Interpreting certificate and diploma programs to prepare students to work as paraprofessional interpreters. View more in the Academic Programs section of this document.

International Student Services

International Student Services provides admissions guidance for all non-U.S. citizens in the following areas:

  • International educational credentials; 
  • Residency assessment for tuition for the few community college exceptions outside of RDS; 
  • Immigration and visa status verification; and
  • General support services to help students enroll in Durham Tech programs.

View the admission steps for non-U.S./International Students and the requirements for current F-1 (student visa) students.

Study/Travel Abroad

Durham Tech facilitates several study/travel abroad programs for students to learn about and experience different cultures. Some programs are developed by Durham Tech faculty, while others are identified through individual student interest.

View the Study/Travel Abroad section of the website.