Beginning This level provides practice in basic English at an elementary level for students who have little or no knowledge of English. This level improves and extends control of English for students who have some functional ability in English. This level improves and deepens the knowledge of English necessary for university work. It is for students with a fair ability to read, write and speak English. Successful completion of this level should enable students to pass the reading and writing test for admission to a Benedictine University degree-seeking program and to participate successfully in most academic courses.
Classes are small for personalized attention and to give students the opportunity to participate.
The instructors are trained ESL specialists with experience in teaching speakers of other languages. Most of the ESL instructors have study-abroad experience. A maximum of 6 semester hours earned in the program can be applied as elective credit toward the undergraduate degree at Benedictine University. Classes meet Monday through Friday for 15 weeks each semester during the academic year. An orientation for ESL students takes place during the first week of classes each semester.