English as a Second Language (ESL)

The Program

The VIU English Language Centre is committed to providing to community and international students quality ESL education, including both language and culture, and to fostering a student-centered environment that honours the diversity of students and teachers.

The ELC provides a wide range of ESL levels and support services to meet the needs of students whose first language is not English, and who have various goals for the acquisition of competence in English.

All programs provide small classes, highly qualified, friendly, approachable teachers, and a wide range of learning materials. Classes are held 20 or 24 hours per week; students can get additional assistance in the Learning Centre.

Academic Preparation

VIU’s English as a Second Language Academic Preparation program consists of 5 levels (14 weeks each). In Academic Preparation Level 1 students will study an integrated curriculum of all language skills so that they are able to use the language to express their ideas and opinions about familiar topics in speaking and writing.

Academic Preparation Level 2 integrates the four skills: reading, writing, listening and speaking. Students will actively practice all aspects of English and focus on developing academic English and their communication skills.

In Academic Preparation Level 3, 4, and 5 there is a focus on academic reading, writing, and an introduction to literature. A passing grade in Academic Preparation Level 5 will allow students direct entry to VIU academic programs without further English testing.

ESLA 010 - (Academic Preparation Level 1)
ESLA 020 - (Academic Preparation Level 2)
ESLA 030 - (Academic Preparation Level 3)
ESLA 040 - (Academic Preparation Level 4)
ESLA 050 - (Academic Preparation Level 5)

Start and End Dates

September to December
January to April
April to August

Communications

VIU's English as a Second Language Communications program consists of two levels (7 and 14 weeks). In Communications Level 2 students will learn about Canadian life through interactive activities, short readings, field trips and conversations. In this class, they will learn and use useful expressions and vocabulary related to their lives in Canada. They will use all language skills with an emphasis on developing oral communication skills.

In Communications Level 3 students will study all language skills, with a special focus on oral/aural skills. Students will develop their listening and speaking skills both in and out of the classroom through interactive activities.

ESLC 015 - (Communcations Level 2 - Intermediate Skills)
ESLC 020 - (Communcations Level 3 - Advanced Skills)

Access

VIU's English as a Second Language Access program consists of one level (7 and 14 weeks).

ESLC 010 - (Access - Developing Skills)

Start and End Dates for Communications and Access

September to October/December
October to December
January to February/April
February to April
April to June/August
June to August

Admission Requirements

All students must:

be a citizen, landed immigrant, or hold a valid visitor or student authorization;
complete a Vancouver Island University ESL language assessment test.

For More Information

Please call (250)740-6318 for further information and an appointment for an assessment test.

Updated: December 22, 2011