English for Career Development – US Embassy

English for Career Development is designed for high-beginner to low-intermediate non-native English speakers. This course will guide you through the job application process while expanding your vocabulary and language skills at the same time.

This course was developed by the University of Pennsylvania and adapted by FHI 360 for the Online Professional English Network (OPEN), sponsored by the U.S. Department of State.

English for Career Development is a five-module MOOC, requiring approximately three to five hours of work per module over the course of 12 weeks. This course is designed for non-native English speakers who are interested in developing the skills and vocabulary needed to advance in their careers in the global marketplace.

The Online Professional English Network (OPEN)
Links to an external site. offers professional development courses for English language teachers and educators, as well as other professionals around the world. The goal of the program is to increase the capacity of participants to use English effectively in their professional contexts, increase access to openly licensed learning materials, increase understanding of U.S. society, culture and values, provide opportunities for mutual exchange, and build the capacity of participants to apply what they have learned within their educational and professional communities. 

Who

The OPEN program is sponsored by the U.S. Department of StateLinks to an external site., Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, with funding from the U.S. government, and is administered by FHI 360Links to an external site..

The professional development opportunities offered through the program are designed and taught by a variety of partners, including universities, non-profit companies, private sector partners, and consultants. Together, the U.S. Department of State, FHI 360, and our partners offer online professional development opportunities to English educators and learners in over 100 countries.

About this Course:

English for Career Development is designed for high-beginner to low-intermediate non-native English speakers. This course will guide you through the job application process while expanding your vocabulary and language skills at the same time.

This course was developed by the University of Pennsylvania and adapted by FHI 360 for the Online Professional English Network (OPEN), sponsored by the U.S. Department of State.

Module 1: Entering the Job Market

This module covers materials, activities and vocabulary about the following key concepts:

• understanding the US job application process
• career planning
• navigating the job search process

Module 2: Resumes

This module covers materials, activities and vocabulary about the following key concepts:

• identifying the components of a résumé
• describing your qualifications and employment experience
• producing professional-looking résumé

Module 3: Writing a Cover Letter

This module covers materials, activities and vocabulary about the following key concepts:

• understanding cover letter standard format guidelines
• writing clear, concise cover letters with appropriate style and voice

Module 4: Developing your Professional Network

This module covers materials, activities and vocabulary about the following key concepts:

• understanding the importance of networking
• delivering an appropriate networking elevator speech
• using social media for networking

Module 5: Interviewing for a Job

This module covers materials, activities and vocabulary about the following key concepts:

• describing their skills effectively in interview settings
• asking and answering questions in a formal job interview
• current trends in the workplace

Full Course Module Packet

These downloadable materials contain all five modules of the English for Career Development MOOC.

Note: These files are large so may not download for those with bandwidth limitations. We encourage you to use the individual module packets on this page to download the course in smaller files.

Description

English for Career Development is designed for high-beginner to low-intermediate non-native English speakers. This course will guide you through the job application process while expanding your vocabulary and language skills at the same time. This course will also give you the opportunity to explore your global career path, while building your vocabulary and improving your language skills to achieve your professional goals. The first module in this course will introduce the U.S. job application process and provide strategies for identifying the jobs that match your interests and skills. Module 2 will take you through the steps necessary to produce a professional-looking resume. In Module 3, you will work to develop a clear and concise cover letter. Module 4 will focus on developing your networking. Module 5, the final unit of the course focuses on interview skills.

This course was developed by the University of Pennsylvania and adapted by FHI 360 for the Online Professional English Network (OPEN), sponsored by the U.S. Department of State.

Learning Objectives and Learner Outcomes

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

• Compare and contrast the job search process in the United States and your home country.
• Describe your professional interests and talents and begin developing your professional profile.
• Produce your own 1-page resume which reflects your education, work experience, and skills.
• Produce your own cover letter and explain why you are the right person for the job.
• Describe yourself briefly in a networking elevator speech.

About the US Embassy

What does the US Embassy Do?

The primary purpose of an embassy is to assist American citizens who travel to or live in the host country. U.S. Foreign Service Officers also interview citizens of the host country who wish to travel to the United States for business, education, or tourism purposes.

Course: Introduction to Finance and Accounting Specialization by University of Pennsylvania

U.S. Embassy, London Embassy in London, England

The Embassy of the United States of America in London is the diplomatic mission of the United States in the United Kingdom. It is the largest American embassy in Western Europe and the focal point for events relating to the United States held in the United Kingdom. 

Embassy of the United States, Beijing Office in Beijing, China

The Embassy of the United States in Beijing is the diplomatic mission of the United States in China. It serves as the administrative office of the United States Ambassador to China. The embassy complex is in Chaoyang District, Beijing.

Key Dates

• Enrollment Opens: October 6, 2025
• Course Starts: October 6, 2025
• Enrollment Closes: December 22, 2025
• Course End Date: December 29, 2025