University of South Carolina

Location: Columbia, South Carolina, USA

The intensive English curriculum of English Programs for Internationals (EPI) combines high-quality instruction with friendly, personalized service. EPI is designed to help international students feel comfortable in their new environment and succeed in U.S. universities and in their careers. EPI provides an intensive English program which offers six proficiency levels of instruction. EPI is designed for foreign students who want to improve their English language skills before entering a college or university in the United States. In addition, those who need English skills for professional reasons will find EPI equally appropriate. EPI offers five 9-week terms per year beginning in January, March, May, August and October. Classes are held Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:10 p.m. and Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:10 p.m. There are three basic classes each day: Grammar/Writing, Reading/Vocabulary, and Speaking/Listening. All students receive at least 20 hours of supervised English instruction per week. Class size averages 12 to 15 students of similar English proficiency. Students have additional classes (i.e., computer lab) which meet after 3:30 p.m. Students are placed in their classes based on the results of tests given at the beginning of each term. In addition to scheduled classes, students have access to the student reading library and the computer labs during the week. All students have an e-mail account and access to the Internet. TOEFL preparation is part of the regular curriculum. Because classes are held on campus, EPI students are able to interact with American students and to learn about student life. EPI involves students in informal activities for learning English outside of the regular class sessions -- trips, cultural events, sports teams, international coffee hours, conversation partners, receptions with the governor of South Carolina and the president of USC, and visits to public schools. Most activities are free of charge.

Offered Degrees & Courses:
- English as a Second Language (Language)