University English

There are two levels to this course: AEPC and PAE. When you arrive you will take a short placement test. Based on this test you will be placed on the course which is most suitable for you.

University English Video

Academic English Preparatory Course (AEPC)

This full-time intensive course is designed to help students reach an appropriate level of proficiency in English for entry into their university departments. It will also be useful for those who want generally to improve their English for personal and professional development in an academic environment. The course concentrates on English for Academic Purposes and provides a solid foundation in the language skills necessary for successful academic study through the medium of English. The course is particularly suitable for students who need to pass the IELTS test for university entry.In addition, the course introduces students to the British way of life, the education system and the methods of study commonly found in universities in Britain. Staff at the Centre maintain close links with colleagues in the various academic departments of the University and can assist students in the preliminary work involved in setting up their programme of study at the University.

Group of students discussing

Course Content

1. Core Language Skills

To prepare students for their academic programme of study, tuition and practice is provided in:

2. Academic Skills

Core Academic English skills: writing, reading, listening and speaking
Grammar in context
Vocabulary development
Speaking for academic and social situations
Pronunciation

In addition, students are assisted in making the transition to university-level studies through the following subjects:

3. Options classes

Presentation and Seminar Skills: students are assisted in the preparation of short presentations on topics related to their interests; presentations are followed by group discussion.
Extended Writing: students research a topic of their own choice and are guided in the writing of a report on their findings.
Lecture programme: a weekly lecture on a range of different academic/general topics gives an insight into different aspects of British life, culture and study methods. These lectures provide students the opportunity to practise their listening and note-taking skills.

Students at higher levels of English can choose from a range of option classes in the afternoons. These can include:

IELTS Preparation and Practice
English for Social Science
English for Science and Technology
Background to Britain
Improve your Pronunciation
Social English

Pathway to Academic English (PAE)

Students who arrive at a level of Intermediate or below (as determined by our placement test) will follow this course at first. This course helps prepare students for higher level study by emphasising:

Grammar: consolidation of the main tenses and structures of English
Vocabulary: learning more words in a variety of different contexts
Writing: helping students to improve the accuracy and structure of written work
Speaking: improving the accuracy and fluency in a variety of situations
Listening: understanding spoken English in academic and general situations
Reading: developing the ability to deal with longer and more complex texts
IELTS/Exam preparation: students practise exam skills using the language developed in the other parts of the course

Dates and Hours

Both courses include 21 hours' tuition per week and run throughout the academic year (September - June) with holidays at Christmas and at Easter. Students may begin their studies at any time during the year at the beginning of each term.

Educational Visits

These courses also feature a regular series of educational visits to local places of interest. These may include, for example, the Peak District National Park, York, Manchester (at no extra cost) and weekend residential visits to the Lake District or North Wales (costs of around £50 to cover accommodation).

See some pictures of recent activities

ELTC Social Programme

A programme of activities is also arranged by an ELTC Social Organiser, including typically a weekly football game and reading club, as well as regular evening outings. These can include such activities as ice skating, bowling or cinema visit (some entry charges apply of around £3-7).

University of Sheffield Activities

There are many opportunities for leisure activities arranged by the University's excellent Students' Union, including the very popular "Give it a Go" programme, as well as numerous societies and sports clubs. A range of activities are free, some activities for a few hours are about £3-7 and weekend day trips are around £15-30 (some allow children and partners to attend too).