Languages - CE Intensive English Program

Our Mission

The Continuing Education Intensive English Department at Houston City College features a staff of highly-qualified and culturally-sensitive staff and faculty ready to meet the needs of language learners by offering programs designed to improve oral and written communication skills for work, academic and community.

Program Goals

The goals of the CE Intensive English Program are the following:

• Prepare learners for academic success in the American College settings
• Develop communication skills in the global workplace environments
• Enhance intercultural understanding. 

The CE Intensive English Program offers three of the 5 levels of the HCC Intensive English Program — Level Intro, Level 1 and Level 2. Upon completion of the CE Intensive English level 2, students transition to ESOL Level 3 without further testing. 

CE Intensive English Full-time Program

The CE Full-time Intensive English Program is for the student who can study 18 to 20 hours per week. Students with F1 Visas are required to enroll in the Full-time CE Intensive English if they place in the lower levels. (Note: F1 or International students will pay out-of-state tuition fees.)

Through the Full-time or Part-time Intensive English Program, you can:

• Learn the English Language
• Improve your communication skills in the English language
• Become fluent and proficient in the English language.
• Progress to the academic ESOL courses.
• Prepare for college coursework.

CE Intensive English Part-time Program

The CE Intensive English Part-time Program is for the student who can study only 8 to 9 hours per week. We provide day, afternoon & evening classes beginning every 8 weeks. For more information, contact one of the HCC locations: Alief Bissonnet, Gulfton, Katy and Spring Branch.

CE Intensive English Virtual Services Lobby

Zoom Lobby schedule for CE Intensive English

• Mondays 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. & 4 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
• Tuesdays 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. & 4 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
• Wednesdays 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. & 4 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
• Thursdays 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. & 4 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
• Fridays 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

International Students intending to enroll in HCC classes should contact the office of  International Student Services & Abroad (OISS & SA) at:

oiss.international@hccs.edu or call: 713-718-8521 or

visit the website at: hccs.edu/international

Daily attendance is required for successful completion. A student may be dropped for excessive absences or late arrivals to class.

Spring 2026 New Student Orientation & Testing

The scheduling of dates is contingent upon meeting minimum enrollment requirements and therefore may be subject to cancellation in the event of insufficient student participation.