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English as a Second Language

This library guide contains useful library resources for ESL students at Oakland University.

Offices at OU

ESL Institute

Improve your skills in English while becoming familiar with studying in the USA.

The ESL Institute welcomes students of all English proficiency levels. Classes are taught by experienced instructors who will help you improve your skills in English while also learning academic success strategies along with how to use technology effectively in the classroom and in life. Click here to visit the ESL Institute's home page.

Connect with the ESL Institute office:

  • In person: O'Dowd Hall, Room 326, 586 Pioneer Drive, Rochester, MI 48309-4482
  • By phone: (248) 364-8803
  • By emailesl@oakland.edu

Multicultural & International Offices at OU

Oakland University is committed to creating an atmosphere of advocacy and support for all students, faculty, and staff.

We strive to acknowledge and respect all campus community members from all walks of life; and to understand and appreciate the history and culture of all persons, both locally and abroad. Review the information below to find out more about our various on-campus and off-campus programs.


Center for Multicultural Initiatives

The mission of the Center for Multicultural Initiatives (CMI) office is to provide support for underrepresented students' success and to foster an appreciation for campus wide diversity. CMI was established in 1993 to advance Oakland University’s commitment to diversity in increasing the retention and graduation of a culturally diverse student body by developing strategies that engage all students in the attainment of academic excellence and social success. Click here to visit the CMI office's home page.

Connect with CMI:

  • In person: North Foundation Hall, Room 104, 318 Meadow Brook Road, Rochester, MI 48309
  • By phone: (248) 370-4404
  • By emailcmi@oakland.edu
    • The CMI office is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Office of Global Engagements

The Office of Global Engagement promotes the global mobility of students and faculty and the worldwide visibility of Oakland University. We believe in the transformative power of global engagement and its positive impact on individuals, Oakland University, Michigan and the world. Click here to visit the Office of Global Engagement's home page.

Connect with the Office of Global Engagement:

  • In person: O'Dowd Hall, Room 328, 586 Pioneer Drive, Rochester, MI 48309
  • By phone: (248) 370-3846 
  • By emailgeo@oakland.edu

International Students and Scholars

The International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO) is committed to providing Oakland University’s diverse international students with outstanding service, support, and advocacy, with the goal of building a campus community that nurtures global citizenship and multicultural appreciation. Click here to visit the ISSO's home page.

Connect with the ISSO office:

  • In person: O'Dowd Hall 328, 586 Pioneer Drive, Rochester, MI 48309-4482
  • By phone: (248) 370-3358
  • By emailisso@oakland.edu