English language courses are conducted every semester (February, June, and October – the normal PDIC intakes).

Students are required to attend classes for up to 25 hours each week for the duration of a course. Students are placed in classes according to their English entry level. Students must successfully complete their English language course in order to progress to the academic components of their chosen undergraduate or postgraduate university pathway.

Teaching and Learning

Whilst on the English Language course, you will be taught by well-qualified lecturers with considerable experience in the teaching of English in the UK and overseas. They will take a personal interest in your progress and well-being.

The teaching takes place in small groups using modern teaching and learning methods. The courses are intensive and you will be required to do homework and out-of-class assignments. Students are assessed on their coursework throughout the semester, inclusive of a mid-semester test and writing assignments. A final examination will be held in the last week of classes.

PDIC English Language Training aims to:

• Develop a broad, academically useful vocabulary and improve pronunciation, grammatical skills and understanding
• Build skills that will improve lecture note-taking and seminar participation
• Develop essay, report and academic assignment writing skills
• Improve reading comprehension and develop those research skills necessary to be able to read academic texts, journals and papers efficiently and effectively
• Develop public speaking and presentation confidence
• Build those independant study skills required for success in a university environment