English Language with Auburn University at Montgomery: Your path to a leading US University

“One language sets you in a corridor for life. Two languages open every door along the way.” – Frank Smith

As the official language of countries all over the world, English is the beating heart of universal communication. From crossing cultural boundaries and heightening global awareness to boosting professional prospects and stimulating minds, English language learning is key to success in a complex modern world. In the wise words of London Mayor, Sadiq Khan, “…give someone a fish, feed them for a day, teach them how to fish, feed them for life – learn English, and you’re made for life.”

Ranked among the top universities of the South by U.S. News and World Review, Auburn University at Montgomery (AUM) serves as the perfect setting for your language learning journey, also carving its name among the best colleges in the Southeast according to The Princeton Review. Consistently cited as a regional education asset, AUM offers an inspiring, hands-on learning experience from professionals of the field.

“When AUM first opened its doors to students in 1969, it was a commuter campus,” the institution notes. “Our students worked throughout the River Region and they came to our campus for one reason – they wanted more and better opportunities to make a life for themselves and their families. Students still choose AUM for the same reason,” it adds, “but today, they come from all over the country – all over the world – at a variety of points in their lives to start building the lives they choose at AUM.”

As a first-rate international and academic institution, AUM welcomes a vibrant mix of both traditional and non-traditional scholars. While some are fresh out of high school, others have years of professional experience already under their belts, adding color, enrichment and diversity to an already rather stunning city campus.

AUM – Launching you into your English Language adventure

AUM offers a range of specialist English as a Second Language (ESL) services and programs that specifically cater to non-native English speakers looking to improve their written and verbal communication skills in a personal, professional and academic sense. On top of immersing students in real-life American culture, this comprehensive portfolio allows students to become fully-fledged members of the AUM community, expanding their horizons as they refine their skills and carve out a path to a leading US university.

“I had a life changing experience at AUM, especially in the ESL program where I had the opportunity to befriend people from different countries and be in touch with many cultures”, says Victor Batista, a student from Brazil. “To be immersed into the American life style in a heartwarming place like AUM was unforgettable. The ESL program was amazingly fun with extra class events, great teachers, and awesome memories. I thought that it was impossible to learn a second language so fast, but the ESL Program at AUM proved me wrong.”

Intensive English Language (IEP)

Image courtesy of AUM

The IEP is open to students aged 16 years and older, instilling a firm foundation in all every aspect of the English language. All students are required to complete an initial placement test to determine level of skill, with all courses delivered within five proficiency scales: Beginning, Low Intermediate, Intermediate, High Intermediate and Advanced. Once proficiency has been determined, you’ll select your courses with the help of an experienced advisor. Classes generally teach eight to 14 students and are held throughout the year in eight-week terms.

IEP student services include:

• IEP Advising Services
• International Student Orientation
• Extracurricular Activities
• International Student Organizations
• Student ID (applies to F-1 students only)
• ESL Certificate of Achievement
• TOEFL Paper-Based Test (Additional Fee)
• IELTS Test (Additional Fee)
• Student Health Services

ESL Community Program

Tailored to the needs of the international community and business population of Montgomery and the surrounding regions, this course provides sessions throughout the year in six to eight-week terms. Again, classes are held at the Beginning, Low Intermediate, Intermediate, High Intermediate and Advanced levels, with a number of day, evening and weekend courses also available to suit your existing commitments.

“AUM is an excellent language school with teachers who will do everything to help you improve your language skills. Everybody at AUM, the teachers as well as the administrative staff, are always willing to help with any needs or requests to make your stay to an unforgettable one.” notes Reem Sobhu, a ESL student from Jordan.

Course features include:

• A multi-skills syllabus (Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing)
• A focus on accuracy and fluency
• Speaking on contemporary, real-world topics
• Natural, conversational language
• Grammar in communicative contexts
• Task-based listening activities
• Fun, personalized speaking activities
• Emphasis on pronunciation

TESOL Certificate

Image courtesy of AUM

Designed to instil students with the knowledge and expertise needed to Teach English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) in the US or abroad, this online, distance-learning program is flexible to your needs. Delivered via two core tracks – Adult Education and K12 Education – the program’s six classes can be completed in six weeks, informing all participants of the most effective ways to teach communicative English language overseas. Upon completion, students will have immersed themselves in a 144 hours of extensive language teaching instruction, all from the comforts at home.

The AUM English Language Institute – Delve into American culture

The ELI at Auburn University at Montgomery delivers world-class language academics to students from all walks of life, allowing them to learn from the most knowledgeable professors as they experience the best of American life.

“Acculturation contributes immeasurably to the above elements as it provides and builds an indispensable cultural context for reinforcing classroom learning,” the ELI explains. “Thus, part of our curriculum introduces American culture to our students through activities such as social gatherings, local outings, and regional trips.”

“The ESL program and all the academic staff did not only teach us the English language only, but also one of their goals was to provide students with information about American history. We were able to differentiate between the customs and traditions of each state and learned how to adapt to a new culture quickly”, says Lujain Alshabhi, from Saudi Arabia. “It was great to attend AUM, because from there I found many people who have now become my friends. I’m really thankful for every single day I spent in Montgomery, Alabama at Auburn Montgomery.”

This isn’t just a passport to an elite language education, but a passport to your success. Apart from gaining a globally-recognised qualification and an unforgettable study experience, you’ll also walk away with a wealth of social and professional prospects that will take you wherever you want to go; whether that’s university, work, travel or beyond. No matter what your hopes and aspirations, your journey starts here at AUM.

Want to know more? Email the ESL department at AUM today for more information, and follow them on Facebook and Instagram

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