The English Language Studies Department offers academic English classes for students of English as an additional language. This diploma program provides full or part-time intensive English language study for students whose first language is not English and who intend to enroll in university studies or career and professional programs. There are four levels of study: the Foundation level (Intermediate), Level 1 (Upper Intermediate), Level 2 (Lower Advanced), and Level 3 (Advanced). The core curriculum (reading, writing, listening and speaking) is augmented by electives. At Level 2, students may begin graduated entry into university studies or career and professional programs. Courses in this diploma program are also open to non-program students. Please see the ELST section for course descriptions.

All applicants should register at Admissions for the appropriate placement tests: Accuplacer and the ELST Writing Assessment, and the Kwantlen In-house Speaking and Listening Test (KIST). These placement tests provide students with the prerequisite scores for correct placement in the program. Applicants must have the necessary prerequisites to enroll in courses.

The Diploma of Proficiency in English Language Studies consists of four levels: Foundation, Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3. Each level consists of two required courses and some electives. (In this program, a course with 3 credits means 4 class hours per week for 15 weeks. A course with 6 credits means 8 class hours per week for 15 weeks.) The course requirements of each level are given below. To receive the Diploma, you have to get a minimum grade of B- in each required course and a minimum grade of C in each elective course.

Upon successful completion of this program, students are awarded a Diploma in English Language Studies.