Admissions
English Language Institute
In December 2012, The
English Language
Institute's “Values Across
Cultures Forum” featured an
exciting exchange of ideas.
Click on the photo above to
view a video of the event.
Click the photo above
to see a video about our
recent play, which
featured two of our
Chinese students.
Post University hosts
"The China Forum" to
celebrate the final
presentations of our ESL
students, Vernon Zhang
and Ji Tang.
At Post University, even if you can only speak a little English, you can start taking classes right away.
We have designed a flexible program so you can learn English as you complete your undergraduate degree!
During your very first semester at Post University, you can take up to four English Language and Communication (ELC) classes to learn English and audit one class in your major. Auditing a class means that you can attend class without taking it for credit. This will help you improve your English skills and learn the new words without worrying about getting a low grade.
Once you complete the four ELC classes in your first semester at Post University, you will have earned 12 credits toward your degree! If after the four ELC classes, you need more time to study English, don’t worry. Our ELC teachers will be happy to offer you more classes and individual tutoring.
The English Language Institute of Post University is staffed by highly qualified instructors who have advanced certification and degrees in teaching English as a Second Language. They have lived or taught in other countries or have learned other languages. The program offers credit and non-credit courses designed to support the second language learner in a variety of learning levels and content areas. Our focus is to help students increase their English language proficiency and provide the necessary foundation for academic success in the University. The program also offers students the support of the following departments:
The Post University Learning Center provides tutoring services in a wide range of subjects to students who feel they would benefit from some one-on-one assistance. The Learning Center also reinforces classroom instruction and enriches subject content through access to multimedia equipment, including Internet-based educational programs, computer-assisted instruction, and educational instruction via CD-ROM and video programs.
The Post University Writing Center works with students to refine their organization, critical thinking, grammar, structure, and style skills so they can produce quality written and presentation materials. Second language students will benefit from personalized instruction in writing and revising written assignments and assistance in writing research papers.
Note: TOEFL scores are not required for admission to Post University. However, in cases of low English competency, students will be required to complete our ELC program before enrolling in non-ELC classes for college credit.
For more information about this program and the opportunities available to you at Post University, please call 800.345.2562.
Courses Offered
Students who apply to the University are given an English placement test to determine their level of proficiency in the language. Students placed in the ESL program take ESL courses that range from beginner to advanced level. Students may take up to 12 units of ESL courses for credit towards their degree, and additional courses are offered for students in need of further language training.
| Basic Courses | ||
| ELC100 | English Orientation | Non-credit |
| An introductory English course for new international students. Instruction and activities include basic English (grammar, listening, speaking, reading, writing), an orientation to the facilities and culture of the University, and general academic skills in preparation for future classes. Offered in the summer. | ||
| ELC101 | English Communication Skills | 3 Credits |
| A multi-level English course emphasizing all skill groups: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Instruction emphasizes the use of English in academic and social contexts and provides a comprehensive introduction to the language in preparation for further English study. | ||
| ELC102 | English Writing and Resources | 3 Credits |
| An intermediate to high-intermediate level English course emphasizing standard written English and designed to prepare students for academic assignments in future University courses. Students improve their language proficiency through grammar and editing exercises, paragraphs, short essays, and research assignments. Students use library, internet, video, and other media sources to research various topics and prepare short and long reports. | ||
| ELC103 | Speech and Comprehension | 3 Credits |
| An intermediate to high-intermediate level English course focusing on speech and pronunciation skills in tandem with listening and reading comprehension skills. Stories, articles, tapes, videos, and class observations are used to build vocabulary, reinforce grammar skills, and introduce idioms. Dialogues, tapes, drills, and speeches help students practice north American English pronunciation and intonation patterns. | ||
| Advanced Courses | ||
| ELC 105 | American Culture and History | 1.5 Credits |
| An introductory course that focuses on the knowledge and skills that students need to become integrated into American society. This information and these skills will include speaking, listening, media literacy, computer-mediated communication, cultural sensitivity, workplace communication, group dynamics, and critical thinking. | ||
| ELC107 | Internship | 1.5 Credits |
| International students qualified for a university scholarship are placed according to interest and abilities in various Post University offices for a 100 hour/semester internship. Students will meet as a class once a week to discuss their experiences, share questions, and journal observations. | ||
| ECL108 | Advanced Writing | 3 Credits |
| An advanced level English course emphasizing written English skills. Students learn fine points of grammar, standard academic essay form, and strategies for editing their work independently. | ||
| ELC109 | Advanced Reading | 3 Credits |
| An advanced level English course focusing on reading skills. Students read authentic short stories, novels, poetry, and articles to build vocabulary, reinforce grammar skills, and improve overall fluency. | ||
| ELC110 | Discussion Seminar | 3 Credits |
| An advanced level English course emphasizing listening and speaking skills. Students work independently and together to prepare debates, speeches, and group discussions on various topics. This course is designed to prepare students for active participation in other academic classes. | ||
| ELC435 | Special Topics | 3 Credits |
| An advanced level English course that focuses on a specific content area as determined by both the program director and student interest. Students will be expected to research, discuss, and write extensively in the designated subject area of interest. | ||
Peer Tutoring
Students will be required to meet weekly with an assigned peer tutor to practice skills learned in the classroom. Tutors will assist students one-on-one with homework and projects, practice the students in conversational skills, and provide an additional point of contact for learning about the University community and American culture.
University TOEFL Score Requirement
Students with a Test on English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score above 500, or 75 on the Internet Based Test (iBT), or alternatively, a 5.5 on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) may enroll in regular courses in the university. Students with lower or no test scores will take the English placement test to determine which ESL courses they must take prior to or concurrent with enrollment in a regular program.
Inquiries regarding the ESL Programs of the English Language Institute may be directed to:
Dr. Ruby Parker
Director
English Language Institute, MAC 215A
Post University
800 Country Club Road
Waterbury, CT 06723
RParker@post.edu
203.591.5234