This program has been specifically designed to enable students to develop their language skills for study at James Cook University. It also aims to develop the critical individual learning capabilities required for successful university study.

In terms of language skills, the core texts have a focus on macro-skills of reading, writing, listening and speaking, and these are supplemented by academic literacy skills. For example, in all levels students must carry out presentations on a regular basis, ending up with an academic presentation on Level 3.

The students’ ability to learn independently is developed over the program, with students being asked to complete greater amounts of coursework on an autonomous basis as they move through the program. For example, Level 3 students will spend 12 weeks honing their academic and language skills through classwork, individual tutorials and selfdirected study, culminating in a 1500 word essay and academic presentation on the topic.

Critical thinking is also strongly encouraged, with students being required to form opinions on a range of subjects and express these arguments in both written and spoken form

Students intending to do a Master’s degree develop their academic language skills in level 4, which is designed to enable students to advanced their level of English language proficiency to an equivalent of IELTS 6.5.

In class, students will engage with contemporary topics of importance to the globalised world, attend lectures, and read and carry out tasks in relation to these topics. Students who successfully complete all their Level 4 assignments, will also be able to apply for 3 credits exemption for their university course.

This program helps students in the following ways:

• Prepares students for full degree programs at the Singapore campus of James Cook University
• Enhances students’ abilities in reading, writing, speaking and listening in English
• Equips students to present information, concepts and ideas on a variety of topics
• Enables students to express feelings and emotions, exchange opinions and make observations in English
• Improves students’ writing and research skills

The academic requirement differ from country to country but in general applicants must have satisfactorily completed 11 years of schoolings or equivalent.