Intensive English Language Program: English as a Second Language

Program Director: Kelly Schroeder

Overview

The Intensive English Language Program within the School of Humanities, Religion and Social Sciences offers preparatory English as a Second Language (ESL) courses to equip non-native English-speaking international students, scholars and professionals with language and culture skills needed to meet the rigor of university life at Fresno Pacific University. These programs provide academic training for international and American students, preparing them for academic success in the university. Students focus on the development and demonstration of competencies in academic research and writing, oral presentation and auditory and pronunciation skills.

Mission Statement

The Intensive English Language Program (IELP) is designed for second language learners, both international and domestic, seeking to improve their English abilities, particularly to meet language requirements for college and university admission. Along with English language development, the IELP seeks to assist students in their transition to life in the United States. Providing such services is an expression of the Fresno Pacific University Idea in "inviting persons from various cultural, national, ethnic, and religious settings and backgrounds to participate in the educational experience." Whether these students come only to study English, or to complete an undergraduate degree, they are provided with numerous opportunities to be challenged by the actions and words of students and faculty.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

1. Students will have sufficient oral English language skills to engage in academic or professional tasks in both individual and group settings.
2. Students will analyze cultural differences between the U.S. and their own cultural heritage.
3. Students will have sufficient written English language skills to inform and persuade others.
4. Students will demonstrate effective critical thinking and classroom behaviors in an academic environment in the U.S.

Locations Offered

Main Campus Fresno

Students may apply for admission to the undergraduate program at FPU by obtaining the required English proficiency scores on the TOEFL or IELTS or by completing level 5 of the IELP program with the grades described below.

The IELP has five levels of study—basic through advanced— taught in two 16-week semesters, and a 12-week summer semester. If the international student is academically qualified for undergraduate admission to FPU and chooses to fulfill the English proficiency requirement through study in the IELP, the student can be offered admission to the university. Successful completion of Level 5 is a minimum proficiency for the undergraduate program. To complete Levels 1–4, students must pass all core courses (Writing and Grammar, Reading and Critical Thinking Skills, Listening and Speaking Skills) with an 80 percent (B-) or higher, as well as pass the placement test for that level. To complete Level 5, students must pass all core courses (Writing and Grammar, Reading and Critical Thinking Skills, Listening and Speaking Skills) with an 80 percent (B-) or higher in a 16-week semester.

In addition to the undergraduate studies admission requirements, the student must submit a separate application for the IELP. Please refer to the IELP application process to see the requirements for admission.

Fresno Pacific University reserves the right to require additional English testing and/or classes after the student has arrived at the university, if considered necessary.