Pre-sessional Language for Science: Civil Engineering

Program Overview

This pre-sessional course at the University of Leeds is designed to enhance academic English proficiency for students pursuing a Masters in Civil Engineering. It focuses on developing reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills within the engineering context. The course provides practical learning experiences such as lectures, seminars, and independent study, alongside dedicated tutor support. Accreditation by BALEAP ensures the high quality of teaching and prepares students for successful progression into their Masters program.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This pre-sessional course is designed to help students improve their academic English language skills to the level needed to study a Masters degree in Civil Engineering at the University of Leeds. The program aims to:

• Provide students with the opportunity to experience and adapt to study in the UK ahead of their degree.
• Familiarize students with the University facilities such as libraries, study spaces, and learning platforms.
• Help students settle into Leeds before their Masters begins.
• Facilitate meeting other students and building a community of peers.
The course focuses on developing academic reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills in the context of civil engineering.
• First four weeks: Focus on improving academic English language ability for postgraduate study in the fields of science, engineering, technology, and mathematics.
• Final six weeks: Focus on the skills needed for the subject area, studying with students progressing to degrees in the field of civil engineering.
Students will have the chance to listen to introductory academic lectures or take part in practical sessions, exploring different themes over six weeks. They will work on understanding this content and the language used, along with core texts, through a series of language classes and seminars.

Course Structure:

The course includes a variety of learning and teaching methods:

• Classes: Students will learn how to use language appropriate for their degree to express their thoughts and ideas effectively.
• Lectures: To prepare students for study at a UK university, they will be taught in lectures or practical sessions and group seminars.
• Practical Sessions: Students will have the opportunity to participate in practical sessions related to civil engineering.
• Group Seminars: Students will work individually and with others in group seminars to discuss and analyze course material.
• Independent Study: Independent study is an important element of this course, allowing students to practice their skills, deepen their knowledge, and prepare for their degree.
• Tutor Support: Students will have dedicated time with their tutor to address questions they may have about their language and learning.

Assessment:

The course uses a range of assessment methods, which are likely to include:

• Written assignments
• Speaking assignments
• Presentations
• Research projects

Teaching:

• Teaching Staff: The course is taught by expert academics, from lecturers through to professors.
Students may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers.
• Dedicated Facilities: Students have access to the Language Zone – a study and resource center for independent language learning equipped with a computer cluster for personal study, books and magazines, audio and video resources.
They can also take part in workshops, language groups, and language advice drop-ins.
• Research-Informed Teaching: Teaching staff at the Language Centre contribute to academic research in language teaching.
This research informs the course content, ensuring high-quality teaching designed to help students get the most out of their studies.

Other:

• Accreditation: The course is accredited by BALEAP.
• Social Activities: The Language Centre provides a weekly program of optional social activities during the course.
Some of these are free, and some have a cost, normally no more than £30.
• Accommodation: Accommodation is not included in the tuition fee.
• University Closure: Classes normally take place between 9am and 5pm from Monday to Friday, except when the University is closed.
• Teaching Location: Teaching will take place on the University of Leeds campus.

International fees: £5733 (per year)