University of Newcastle (ELC)

English Language Courses develop their English language skills for a variety of purposes. Perhaps you need to improve your English language skills to gain entry into a degree program at the University of Newcastle? Maybe you would like to improve your English skills to boost your career? We offer a range of programs to suit varying levels of English language proficiency. > What are the different ELICOS programs? General English of Elementary level: focuses on the development of basic communication skills for educational and social needs. General English of Intermediate level: develops communication and language skills to a level where students can function effectively in an English speaking environment. General English of Upper Intermediate level: builds language skills necessary for participation in a wide range of social and vocational activities. During this course some work on English for Academic Purposes is introduced. A higher level Pass meets the requirements for entry into International Foundation and TAFE (Hunter Region). English for Academic Purposes of Advanced level (EAP): develops all language skills with an emphasis on skills relevant to tertiary study. Essay and report writing, note-taking, preparation for tutorials, strategies for listening to and understanding lectures, undertaking research, discussion and oral presentations are included. At the end of the EAP Course students sit the University of Newcastle EAP exams. A Higher Level Pass in this test meets the English Proficiency requirements for admission to the University of Newcastle degree courses. > How does it work? Every level consists of two 5-week modules. It progresses automatically from Module 1 to Module 2. To determine which level or module is right for you, a placement test is held at the time of your commencement at the Language Centre. At the end of Module 2, you will sit an exam to determine if you are ready to progress to the next ELICOS level or move on to further University studies. As part of the course at each level, students participate in educational excursions enabling them to visit some of the local areas of beauty and interest, such as Blackbutt Nature reserve, beaches, museums, Hunter Valley vineyards and port Stephens. > When can I start? The Language Centre offers nine 5-week sessions per year. It means you can start in any session and enrol in a course of one session or as many sessions as required to reach your goals.