by
Susan Sullivan | Nov 30, 2016
Marian University will launch its new Intensive English Program (IEP+) in January with a 12-month schedule of English language instruction and learning classes.
Appropriate for international high school students, college students, and adults, the courses are designed for beginning to advanced learners. The schedule includes five, eight-week sessions. Dates for the first three sessions in 2017 are:
- Spring 1: Monday, January 9 through Friday, March 3
- Spring 2: Monday, March 13 through Friday, May 5
- Summer: Monday, June 26 through Friday, August 18
Dates for two fall 2017 sessions will be announced in January.
Those who hold F-1 student visas must enroll in at least 20 hours of classes per week to maintain their immigration status.
Non-international students and adults with permanent residency who have U.S. green cards can take more flexible class loads.
“Intensive study is typically defined as 20 hours or more a week of class time. It is a proven method for improving English-language communication skills. Students make dramatic improvements in their written and verbal skills over the year,” explained Anthony Shull, the McKinney Chair of International Programs and executive director for global initiatives at Marian University.
Students who successfully complete the IEP+ will be considered to have met Marian University’s English language requirement, making them eligible to apply for admission to an undergraduate or graduate degree program.
Although the university’s IEP+ courses are primarily designed to prepare students for university study, they are also appropriate for those who want to improve their English for career advancement opportunities. The class sizes are small with an emphasis on individual attention and support. The average student-to-faculty ratio for Marian University’s IEP+ is expected to be ten to one.
In addition to the courses, students can participate in special workshops at no extra cost. The workshops will focus on academic preparation to enter a college or university degree program as well as career preparation. Topics will include resume writing, interviewing skills, writing cover letters, how to develop appropriate note-taking skills for college courses, time and stress management, and related subjects.
Shull said students will have a “true academic experience that includes full access to campus resources and activities,” such as Marian University’s Writing Center, Speaking Center, Fitness Center, Health Services, and tutoring services.
The IEP+ is part of the university’s focus on internationalizing its campus and providing students with the global awareness and competencies they need for personal and professional success.
“We are implementing strategies to diversify the campus community by recruiting more international students, welcoming international faculty and scholars, building international partnerships, globalizing our curriculum and research initiatives, and growing student and faculty study-abroad participation,” Shull added.
The cost for full-time students with F1 visas is about $2,500 for one session and $5,000 for two sessions, excluding books and class materials. Full-time students meet 20 hours a week.
Part-time students, including local adults and students with F2 visas may take up to three classes per session. Cost is $625 for one class, $1,250 for two classes, and $1,875 for three classes, excluding books and materials. Part-time students meet 10 hours a week.
Medical insurance, housing, and meal-plan options are available for both full- and part-time students.
For information, contact Jayson Deese at studyEnglish@marian.edu or 317.955.5669. Visit www.marian.edu/iep.
