The student body at Baruch College is a large and varied one; the College in fact ranks in the top 10 for diversity and 1# for upward socioeconomic mobility nationwide. Baruch students speak over 100 languages, and many students speak two or even more.

For students whose first language is not English (English Language Learners or ELLs), the English Department provides coursework designed to assist them in the two required Writing (Composition) classes. The courses, ENG 2100T and ENG 2150T, parallel the Writing I and II ENG 2100 and 2150 courses, with additional hours for deeper instruction in United States’ writing rhetorical expectations, vocabulary, sentence structure, and conventions. Our instructional staff is highly skilled and well trained, with doctorates or Master’s degrees in Teaching English as an Additional Language, Linguistics, or English.

The Baruch Writing Center offers one-on-one tutoring, working with English learners on a specific paper, cover letter, or any type of writing and at any stage of the writing process, including idea generation. They also organize workshops to address a variety of writing aspects.

In addition, Tools for Clear Speech (TCS) offers a wide range of options for improving speaking, including Oral Communication Video Assessment, Small-group Conversation Hours, and one-on-one sessions with a speech consultant. TCS assists students with public speaking skills for their presentations as well. Moreover, the Conversation Partners Program offers the opportunity to work on speaking and intercultural communication skills.

Non-matriculated students interested in EAL classes for Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking, or TOEFL preparation, should contact the Continuing and Professional Studies Department at 646-312-5000.

Students who have been admitted to Baruch may contact Kamal Belmihoub, EAL Director, for additional information, or visit the First-Year Writing website. For information on special COM 1010 sections for English language learners or related questions, call the Communications Studies Department at 646-312-3720 or visit their office in the NVC Room 8-240.