• About IECC


  • Intensive English for College and Careers - IECC

    The IECC program at Mt. Hood Community College provides instruction in the English language and U.S. academic culture and preparation for academic and professional work. Emphasis is on developing strategies for success. After passing the advanced level of the IECC program, students move directly into college classes in their program or major.

    IECC courses are taught by professional English language teachers with masters' degrees in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) and many years of experience including cross-cultural and international experience.

    IECC Students:

    Our students are speakers of other languages from around the globe and from a variety of backgrounds. Some students have lived in the U.S. for many years and others are newcomers. Some are local residents and some are international students.

    IECC Courses:

    Class sizes are small and students receive individualized attention from instructors.

    The two levels of IECC are:

    • IECC 120 – upper intermediate
    • IECC 201 – advanced

    Writing:

    Students learn to use critical thinking and the writing process to develop strong academic writing. Students develop skills to revise the content and organization of their writing and edit their grammar and spelling. Writing courses are 5 credits each and meet 2 days a week.

    Reading:

    Students develop a range of strategies to understand, think critically, and respond to college-level reading materials and increase their understanding and use of academic vocabulary. Reading courses are 5 credits each and meet 2 days per week.

    Communication:

    Students learn strategies that help them communicate more effectively with others in a variety of academic and professional situations and become more confident English speakers. Students will also learn about MHCC resources, clarify their academic and professional goals and develop an educational plan leading to college graduation. Communication courses are 3 credits each and meet 2 days per week.

    Classes are offered two days a week (afternoon and evening) Fall through Spring Term as enrollment permits. Summer term classes are two days a week, morning only.

    Some classes are also offered in the evenings at 6:10 p.m.. Please call 503-491-7333 to ask about the current evening schedule or ask the IECC Adviser.

    Steps to enrolling in IECC

    1. Take the Levels of English Proficiency (LOEP) college placement test and complete a writing sample. You can take the placement test at the Gresham campus or the Maywood campus:
    2. Make an appointment to meet with the IECC Student Resource Specialist. Call 971-238-9072 or 503-491-7333 to schedule an appointment.
      • Have a short interview with the IECC Student Resource Specialist
      • Learning more about IECC and which classes are best for you
      • Register for classes

    Paying for College:

    You may qualify for financial aid or scholarships. Ask the IECC Adviser for more information and find information online.

    Services for International Students

    Mt Hood Community College welcomes international students. There are many services, including advising & counseling, athletic facilities, computer labs, the International Friendship Club and other clubs, the outdoor activity program, library, tutoring support in the Learning Success Center and AVID center.

    If you plan to study with an F-1 visa, please visit the International Admission page.

    Location

    Mt. Hood Community College is located near the beautiful Columbia River Gorge and Mt. Hood. Many recreational activities are available such as skiing, wind-surfing, biking, hiking, rafting, camping, and other outdoor and cultural activities. Charming downtown Gresham offers shopping, restaurants and farmers' and craft markets. Historic Troutdale and the Columbia Gorge Outlet Mall are also nearby. Downtown Portland is easily accessed via car or public transportation.

    Need More Information?

    If you have questions about the IECC program, please call IECC Student Resource Specialist, Marianna.Nagy-Light@mhcc.edu.