Preparatory Year Schema
Introduction
The English Language Department at PSU offers a mandatory pre-university course, the Prep Year English Program (PYEP) and three separate undergraduate courses within the University English Program (UEP): Composition 1, Composition II, (Basic Report Writing) and Business Communication. In addition, the UEP offers a number of elective courses as well
The PYEP is a six hundred-hour intensive course, spread over two semesters.
A pass at C level or better in each part of the PYEP is obligatory for entering any university course. Each of the UEP courses is an accredited part of a main degree course. A student cannot graduate without passing each of these courses.
Objectives of the Preparatory Year Program
The Preparatory Year Program (PYP) offers a bridge between the students’ high school education and the degree program they will later take (in English) in Accounting, Finance, Marketing, Information Systems and Computer Science. The main aim is to improve the students’ English language skills to the level required in freshman courses conducted in English. The English program is sharply focused on what the students will need to achieve success in freshman studies and beyond. It is not a general English program. It is an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program.
High school mathematics is reviewed to consolidate students skills and to introduce mathematical terminology in English. The Computer Department also conducts computer studies in English. In addition, students take two hours a week of physical education to help ensure they remain fit and healthy.
Objectives of the Preparatory Year English Program
The Preparatory Year English department is responsible for developing the language proficiency necessary for students to enter the main part of the university, where English is the medium of instruction. All students must take and pass the two-semester, 600 hour, Preparatory Year English course, before they can begin undergraduate studies.
The objectives of the Preparatory Year English program fall into two specific categories::
1. To raise students English language proficiency to a level that enables them to begin their university studies 2. Shaping students study habits and promoting self-reliance.