Since it was founded in 1981, the English Language Center (ELC) at Old Dominion University has taught thousands of students from nearly 100 countries. The ELC welcomes all students and is eager to assist them in pursuing personal, career and/or academic goals through their study of English.

The ELC offers full and part-time courses in English as a Second Language. There is an Intensive Program for students who need in-depth study of English and a Bridge Program for students who have been conditionally accepted by the University. In addition, the ELC also offers a course in TOEFL Preparation, and specially designed courses for professionals or groups of university students. The ELC also sponsors a Conversation Partner program in which international students are paired with Americans to practice their English in informal settings.

Learning English can be facilitated and enriched by student participation in out-of-classroom activities.  For this reason, many extracurricular activities are available such as trips to widely acclaimed museums, gardens, beach resort areas, sports, cultural events, and Washington, D.C.  In addition to these outings, students are encouraged to participate in the many activities and sports events offered by the University.

The ELC prides itself on its experienced and highly qualified faculty. All ELC instructors have masters' degrees, and many have lived and taught English all over the world. ELC faculty are observed and consulted as model teachers by both U.S. and international teachers of ESL. 

The English Language Center is an accepted member of both AAIEP and UCIEP, professional agencies which select schools for membership based on their adherence to the highest standards of professional and academic excellence.