Trent University Becomes First in Canada to Offer English as a Second Language Courses for Credit Toward Any Undergrad Degree
International students at Trent can now fast-track their English language studies and degree studies, saving money and time
Trent University is taking a groundbreaking lead in English as a Second Language (ESL) programming, becoming the first university in Canada to offer students the opportunity to earn credit towards any undergraduate degree and graduate within four years – saving both time and money.
“The Trent-ESL program has always upheld a reputation for excellence in English language programming,” says Glennice Burns, associate vice president, International at Trent University. “Offering for-credit ESL programming speaks to the academic integrity and rigor these courses carry and lifts the value and benefit to an unmatched level across Canada.”
Through the Trent-ESL program, housed within Trent’s Faculty of Humanities, and in partnership with the Centre for Languages and Linguistics, students enrolled in Academic English 1 and Academic English 2, standard ESL courses, will now earn two full academic credits towards any degree program. With the support of Trent-ESL, students can also enroll for two half-credit courses from their chosen degree program, allowing them to graduate eight to 12 months earlier – saving up to $10,000 in tuition and international cost of living expenses.
“It never made sense that credits weren’t granted for learning English and were for other languages. Trent’s for-credit ESL program has been a decade in the making and I’m thrilled that we’ve reached this milestone for our students,” says Cath D’Amico, director of Trent International. “This is a great value-add for students who can get a jumpstart on their degree by integrating their ESL courses into their program.”
Trent-ESL prepares students for academic success by building their language, research, and academic skills in a small-group learning environment. While the first three ESL levels remain non-credit-bearing courses, the addition of two credit-bearing courses removes the perceived barrier between ESL and degree programming.
“The future of the Trent-ESL: English for University program is bright, and we are excited to support our students in achieving academic, social and career success,” adds Ms. Burns.
Applications for fall 2021 are still being accepted. Visit trentu.ca/esl for more information and details on how to apply.
About Trent-ESL
The highly reputable Trent-ESL: English for University Program was established in 1999 and is accredited by Languages Canada. The rigorous program provides competitive, quality English language instruction – both for credit and not for credit – to students admitted to Trent who require higher language proficiency. It also teaches students essential academic skills to set them up for greater success in their undergraduate or graduate program.
About Trent University
One of Canada's top universities, Trent University was founded on the ideal of interactive learning that's personal, purposeful and transformative. Consistently recognized nationally for leadership in teaching, research and student satisfaction, Trent attracts excellent students from across the country and around the world. Here, undergraduate and graduate students connect and collaborate with faculty, staff and their peers through diverse communities that span residential colleges, classrooms, disciplines, hands-on research, co-curricular and community-based activities. Across all disciplines, Trent brings critical, integrative thinking to life every day. Today, Trent's unique approach to personal development through supportive, collaborative community engagement is in more demand than ever. Students lead the way by co-creating experiences rooted in dialogue, diverse perspectives and collaboration. In a learning environment that builds life-long passion for inclusion, leadership and social change, Trent's students, alumni, faculty and staff are engaged global citizens who are catalysts in developing sustainable solutions to complex issues. Trent's Peterborough campus boasts award-winning architecture in a breathtaking natural setting on the banks of the Otonabee River, just 90 minutes from downtown Toronto, while Trent University Durham Greater Toronto Area, delivers a distinct mix of programming in the east GTA.
For more information contact:
Cara Walsh, Communications & Media Relations Officer, Trent University, (705) 748-1011 x6240 or carawalsh@trentu.ca