English language study
We offer a wide range of intensive programmes of study if you wish to
improve your general and academic English. The length and type of programme
you need will depend on your current level of English and the language
proficiency requirements of your course.
Our pre-sessional programmes:
- enhance your English language proficiency and use of English for
academic purposes;
- ensure you are familiar with the modes of teaching and learning
at Essex;
- introduce you to your prospective department; and
- orientate you to living and studying in the UK.
If you have a conditional offer, then we offer two different pre-sessional
pathways for you. Our classic pathway (for 15 and 10 weeks to provide a
language uplift of 1.0 and 0.5 IELTS band respectively) prepares you for
academic study with a focus on language and study skills in an academic
context, like essay writing and project work. Our
intensive pathway (for 10 and 5 weeks to provide a language uplift of
1.0 and 0.5 IELTS band respectively) improves core language skills by
focusing on grammar and vocabulary development, as well as developing your
reading, writing, listening and speaking skills.
Our in-sessional programme consist of free English support classes if you
are taking a full-time academic course at Essex, with placement based on
your English test at the beginning of the academic year.
Modern language courses
In many courses at our Colchester Campus, you can take a language option.
These are available in French, German, Italian, Portuguese and Spanish,
catering for a variety of levels so you can tailor your choice to fit your
requirements and existing language skills. You can use the many facilities
offered by our language, computing and multimedia laboratories: online
computer packages and dictionaries, live satellite TV, and authentic video
and audio material. Much of this can be accessed 24 hours a day from any
terminal connected to our University network.
All language modules can be taken by members of the public, as well as
students. Our Open Language Programme includes Arabic and Mandarin Chinese.
These can contribute to the award of a Diploma or Certificate in Modern
Languages.