English as a Second Language for Academic Purposes

The English as a Second Language program provides international students with an opportunity to learn English for academic purposes through intensive English instruction and weekly enhancement activities for students preparing for admission to undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Instruction is also offered to those students who wish solely to improve their English language skills. Students are placed in 4 different skill area classes: oral communications, reading, writing and grammar.

Course objectives are academically oriented with the aim of preparing students to function at the university level. In addition, students are given opportunities for social and cultural experiences designed to assist with their cultural transition.

Dedicated to student success, the English as a Second Language program places students at their level of English proficiency. Students are expected to take a placement exam when entering the university. Placement test scores determine what level a student is placed into. Students are placed into 1 of 3 different proficiency levels: beginner, intermediate or advanced. Every student is scheduled for a class in each of the 4 skill areas.

Students enrolled in ESL courses will be allowed no more than three (3) attempts to successfully complete each course. Students who are unsuccessful after the second attempt of a course will be assigned an academic standing hold and be placed on academic probation. Students who are unsuccessful after the third attempt of a course will be academically dismissed.

ESL Course Requirements: