University of Otago Language Centre courses are developed and taught by
highly trained and experienced teachers. The Centre runs for four terms each
year, each lasting 10 or 11 weeks. You may study for as many terms as you
need to reach the level of English you require. Classes run for 25 hours
each week, Monday to Friday, with a maximum of 15 students per class.
Placement
On your first morning at the Centre, your English level
will be assessed and you will be placed in a class with other students of a
similar level.
General
English (GE)
This programme aims to improve your use of English by
developing your ability in all language skills. Integrated classes offer a
programme of listening, speaking, reading and writing with a focus on
grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation. Levels range from elementary to upper
intermediate.
Skills classes offer separate oral and written skills,
giving you further opportunity to practice skills taught in the integrated
skills classes.
IELTS preparation classes are also available to students
who have an appropriate level of English.
English for Academic Purposes (EAP)
This programme prepares you for study at undergraduate or
postgraduate level at an English speaking university. You will follow a
carefully structured programme of Academic English, Research and Learning
Skills, and IELTS preparation.
After an initial assessment of your language ability, you
may be assigned to a general English class until your English reaches the
level required for the EAP programme. If your English is of a high standard
(eg IELTS 7.0), a five week Academic English and University Orientation
programme is available before the beginning of the university year.
Foundation
Year Preparation
This programme prepares you for study at the University of
Otago Foundation Year. It aims to improve your fluency and level of accuracy
in all language skills and, for students at intermediate level and above, it
includes preparation classes for the IELTS examination.
Group Visits
The Centre welcomes groups of overseas students for short
or long-term visits. Types of programmes offered include:
- Study Tours:
a combination of English and Tourism or other special interest
activities;
- Intensive English:
full-time programmes of English tailored to meet the specific learning
outcomes requested by the group organiser;
- English for Specific Purposes:
eg Business, Medicine, Journalism, and other professional fields.
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English for Specific Academic Purposes
Students who are enrolled at one of Dunedin's tertiary
institutions often need some on-going help. The University of Otago Language
Centre provides classes for small groups or individuals to help with the
specific English problems encountered during academic study.
Course Completion
When you complete your course, you will recieve a report
and a certificate which includes an assessment of your proficiency in
English.
Reports
At the end of each term your teachers will
write a report about your progress during the term and the grades you
achieved in the term's assessment. When you leave you will receive an
overall proficiency level grade on your report. If you are under 18 years of
age, a copy of your report will be sent to your parents or guardian.
Certificates
You will receive a Certificate of Attendance
when you complete your course.
English Language Teacher Training
The Centre has a reputation for providing quality
pre-service and in-service courses for teachers of English as a Foreign
Language.
English Language Examinations
The University of Otago Language Centre is registered for
the following internationally recognised English language examinations:
- The International English Language Testing System
(IELTS).
- The Test of English for International Communication
(TOEIC).
- The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).
(Only the pen and paper version of this test is available)
Specific preparations for all examinations are available
at the Centre.
