Program Overview
About the Ohio Program of Intensive English
The Ohio Program of Intensive English (OPIE) is part of the School of International Studies and Languages, located on the campus of Ohio University in Athens, Ohio. OPIE began offering classes in 1967 and is one of the leading English language programs in the United States. It is the oldest university English language program in Ohio.
Program Overview
Students come from all over the world to improve their English, prepare for academic study, and learn U.S. culture. OPIE classes are small, and teachers pay special attention to student needs. Participation and the practical use of spoken and written English are emphasized. OPIE's primary purpose is to help students learn English and prepare them to live and study in the USA.
Program Structure
OPIE consists of full-time and part-time levels of intensive English. The University Success (U.S.) Pathway Program offers undergraduate students the opportunity to take part-time English classes while starting to earn credit toward a degree at Ohio University.
Special Programs
OPIE is frequently asked by the U.S. government to provide special programs in International Training and Development for Fulbright scholars, students, and English teachers.
Additional Opportunities
In addition to classes, OPIE offers opportunities to:
- Meet with a conversation partner or attend a weekly conversation hour.
- Practice reading rate and comprehension in the reading lab.
- Attend cultural and social events on campus and in the community.
Class Schedule
Classes meet Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, with Wednesday reserved for individual lab work, teacher conferences, and special projects or activities. Note that OPIE's summer term is 12 weeks (instead of 14); due to the shortened time period, OPIE classes are held daily, and lab and socio-cultural offerings may be more limited than in Fall and Spring terms.
About Athens, Ohio
Ohio University is located in the beautiful, safe city of Athens. State Parks are just a short drive from the city. Athens enjoys four seasons, with various outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, boating, and skiing available to students. Major cities close to Athens include Columbus, Cincinnati, Cleveland, and Pittsburgh.
