For over forty years, CESL (Center for English as a Second Language) has been a successful intensive English program with a well-established international reputation. Students enjoy small class sizes and individualized attention in a beautiful natural environment.

The curriculum begins with a focus on basic skills in English, then encourages communication skills, and ends with a focus on English for academic purposes. Intermediate and advanced level students are offered some choice over their courses (e.g. TOEFL preparation, pronunciation, discussion) and a special course for graduate students teaches English along with advanced research, writing, and speaking skills. Language programs can also be designed and offered on request to special groups (e.g. businessmen, airline pilots, nurses, hotel managers).

Located on the modern campus of Southern Illinois University at Carbondale (SIUC), the study environment is wholesome and peaceful, and students enjoy a world-class recreation center.

Most students enjoy the beautiful forest and lake on campus, in addition to outdoor hiking, boating, camping, baseball games, sports, and contact with the friendly people of southern Illinois. Bordered by a 270,000 acre national forest and surrounded by several fishing and boating lakes, the city of Carbondale was named 'The Best Small City in Illinois' by Life in America's Small Cities. Located in the 'Heartland' region of the U.S.A., residents enjoy a low cost of living combined with easy access to major cities like St. Louis, Chicago, Indianapolis, and Nashville.