The Intensive English Program (IEP) Program at Western Oregon University was established and is administered by the International Office to provide the intensive English language training to international students.
The mission of the IEP program at WOU was designed to primarily enhance and improve English language skills and facilitate cultural and personal transitions of international students, and in preparation for TOEFL/IELTS tests in order to meet the admission requirements of various academic programs at WOU.
IEP Program Photos
Undergraduate students who do not have the required English language proficiency are eligible for the
Conditional Admission status and to enroll in the full-time IEP Program. They may only start their degree program by completing the IEP program on campus and achieving the required English testing scores.
Tuition
The current tuition for the IEP program is $9,000 per academic year which is much lower than the tuition of regular degree programs. Students are also responsible for covering their living expenses and health insurance.
Curriculum
Overview
The Western Oregon University's Intensive English program consists of three levels beginning with beginners. Each level contains instructions in the four basic language skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing in an integrated syllabus that also includes elements of American culture helpful in English study and life in the United States, and a preparation for the TOEFL test near the end of advanced level courses. A placement test will be given to students in the beginning of each term to determine the appropriate starting level. Each level consists of five hours of instruction five days a week for nine weeks each term for a total of 225 lesson hours per term, plus five hours per week language practice with American students. By the end of each term, a final exam will be given to determine if the students are ready to move up to the next level.
The overall objectives of the program are to produce individuals who:
- have near-native conversational ability
- are fully literate in reading and writing
- are familiar with American culture and history
- have obtained a paper TOEFL score of 500 or above.
Beginning Level
BEGINNING STUDY SKILLS
This beginning course for non-native English speakers focuses on basic study skills. Students will learn strategies for studying effectively, taking tests, conducting research, organizing information.
FOUNDATIONS IN COMMUNICATION
This beginning course for non-native English speakers focuses on the fundamentals of oral communication. Students will build their speaking, listening and pronunciation skills through skill-based learning and communicative activities.
FOUNDATIONS IN LITERACY
This beginning course for non-native English speakers focuses on the fundamentals of literacy. Students will acquire the basic knowledge and skills necessary for reading and writing in English.
Intermediate Level
UNIVERSITY STUDY SKILLS
This intermediate course for non-native English speakers focuses on study skills. Students will learn effective strategies necessary for preparing for and taking tests, as well as managing study time, avoiding procrastination, dealing with test anxiety, and working in study groups.
INTERMEDIATE READING/VOCABULARY
This intermediate course for non-native English speakers focuses on reading comprehension and vocabulary acquisition. Students will increase their proficiency in reading through the use of comprehension strategies, systematic vocabulary development and critical reading skills.
INTERMEDIATE LISTENING/SPEAKING
This intermediate course for non-native English speakers focuses on listening and speaking skills. Students will practice oral fluency and critical listening skills by participating in interactive listening situations, giving oral presentations, engaging in discussion, and hearing authentic texts.
INTERMEDIATE WRITING/GRAMMAR
This intermediate course for non-native English speakers focuses on composition of written work and understanding of English grammar. Students will produce a variety of texts, emphasizing the use of the writing process, thesis development, structural elements, logical organization and conventions as well as increase written fluency through practical application of grammar.
INTERMEDIATE PRONUNCIATION
This intermediate course for non-native English speakers focuses on pronunciation. Students will improve oral fluency through practicing the consonants, vowels, and linking of spoken English in a variety of contexts.
Advanced Level
ADVANCED SPEAKING/PRESENTATION
This advanced course for non-native English speakers focuses on academic-level communication skills. Students will learn the conventions of public speaking as well as give and respond to oral presentations on academic and real-world topics.
ADVANCED READING/DISCUSSION
This advanced course for non-native English speakers focuses on academic-level reading and discussion skills. Students will read for content and develop their ability to comprehend, analyze and evaluate assigned readings as well as participate in discussions and debates.
ADVANCED LISTENING/NOTETAKING
This advance course for non-native English speakers focuses on listening and academic note-taking skills. Students will listen to lectures and watch documentaries, as well as practice summarizing, paraphrasing and synthesizing information to produce concise notes for use in an academic setting.
ADVANCED WRITING/GRAMMAR
This advanced course for non-native English speakers focuses on academic writing skills and knowledge of English grammar. Students will review the structure and standard usage of English and strengthen their writing skills through frequent practice and extended written assignments.
ADVANCED PRONUNCIATION
This advanced course for non-native English speakers focuses on pronunciation. Students will acquire phonetic, syllabic, stress pattern, and linking awareness in order to identify and improve individual areas of weakness.
ADVANCED VOCABULARY
This advanced course for non-native English speakers focuses on academic-level vocabulary acquisition. Students will learn word parts, word forms, collocations, dictionary skills and vocabulary from context to increase their academic vocabulary.
ELECTIVE COURSES DESCRIPTIONS
COMPUTER SOFTWARE
Electives course for non-native speakers of English focusing on using a variety of computer applications. Students will learn about commonly used computer programs, and proper file and folder management methods.
ENGLISH ACTIVITIES
Electives course for non-native English speakers focusing on improving English skills through experiential learning. Students will practice all aspects of the English language through playing games, participating in activities, and taking field trips.
PERFORMANCE ENGLISH
Electives course for non-native speakers of English focusing on using performance techniques to improve fluency, intonation, pronunciation, communication and confidence in speaking English.
STUDIES IN CULTURE
Electives course for non-native speakers of English focusing on comparative studies in culture. Students will learn more about American customs, traditions and culture as well as share aspects of their native cultures.
