Skills Development Program and English for Nonnative Speakers (ESL) Program
Skills Development Program
The Skills Development Program (SD100 Basic Mathematics, SD111 College Reading Skills I, and SD112 College Reading Skills II) is designed for those students who need to strengthen academic skills to perform successfully and learn effectively in their General Education and major coursework. Students register for these courses at the suggestion of or with the approval of their academic advisor. The credits earned in these courses are applicable to full-time status for course load, but do not count as part of the credits required for graduation.
English for Nonnative Speakers (ESL)
The English as a Second Language (ESL) program is designed to meet the needs of international students. A prerequisite placement test is administered for all courses. ESL091 Intensive Basic English I; ESL092 Intensive Basic English II, ESL201 Intermediate English Intl Students I; ESL202 Intermediate English Intl Students II offered in accord with students’ needs. ESL205 Writing English Second Language I; ESL206 Writing English Second Language II offered on application. The credits earned in ESL091 and ESL092 are applicable to full-time status for course load, but do not count as part of the credits required for graduation. 200-level ESL courses are applicable to the General Education language requirement.
Skills Development (SD)
SD100 is for students whose placement scores suggest they are not ready for 100-level college math courses. Working in a computer lab and using adaptive learning software, students will work at their own pace while supported by an instructor. Diagnostic testing informs the software which modules each student needs on topics such as properties of whole numbers, principles of integers, and introduction to algebraic principles. It allows each to work at his or her own pace. Assessment at the end of the course determines students’ readiness for MA103, MA106, or MA109. 3 computer lab classes, 4 hours.
This one-credit course supports students on academic notice to develop the skills, habits, and mindset needed for academic success and lifelong learning. Blending evidence-based learning strategies with practices that promote mental wellness, motivation, and self-compassion, the course offers a holistic approach to academic renewal. Students will explore time management, metacognition, goal-setting, and effective study techniques alongside strategies for emotional regulation, stress management, and connecting with campus resources and communities. Through reflection, skill-building, and supportive collaboration, students will gain tools to recenter themselves, rebuild confidence, and re-engage with their academic journey. Students meet weekly, one to one with instructor and complete online learning modules culminating in the development of an Action Plan.
Prescribes and implements a program designed to help students strengthen reading skills. The program includes individual diagnosis and review of skills weaknesses, group work and supervised laboratory experience in the areas of comprehension, critical reading, vocabulary enrichment and increased reading speed.
Prescribes and implements a program designed to help students strengthen reading skills. The program includes individual diagnosis and review of skills weaknesses, group work and supervised laboratory experience in the areas of comprehension, critical reading, vocabulary enrichment and increased reading speed.
For students whose placement test scores indicate need for developmental instruction in communication skills. Course stresses basic sentence and paragraph development, and emphasizes techniques for improving oral expression. 1-3 credits. Offered at the discretion of the Department of English and Interdisciplinary Studies.
English as a Second Language (ESL)
Basic English for students. Main emphasis on aural-oral English. Includes intensive practice of English structure and pronunciation. Course offered in summer, fall and spring sessions if there is sufficient enrollment. (The credits are applicable to the baccalaureate degree but cannot be counted as part of the credits required for graduation.)
Basic English for students. Main emphasis on aural-oral English. Includes intensive practice of English structure and pronunciation. Course offered in summer, fall and spring sessions if there is sufficient enrollment. (The credits are applicable to the baccalaureate degree but cannot be counted as part of the credits required for graduation.)
Basic language study at a mid-level. Intensive work in language structure, speaking, listening and vocabulary building with emphasis on reading, writing and pronunciation. Applicable to Modern Language; Culture; Global Studies general education requirement for nonnative speakers.
Basic language study at a mid-level. Intensive work in language structure, speaking, listening and vocabulary building with emphasis on reading, writing and pronunciation. Applicable to Modern Language; Culture; Global Studies general education requirement for nonnative speakers.
Prerequisite(s): ESL201.
For the advanced international student who has mastered listening and speaking skills in English. Intensive individualized college-level work in reading and writing. Emphasis on library and research techniques. Applicable to Modern Language; Culture; Global Studies general education requirement for nonnative speakers.
For the advanced international student who has mastered listening and speaking skills in English. Intensive individualized college-level work in reading and writing. Emphasis on library and research techniques. Applicable to Modern Language; Culture; Global Studies general education requirement for nonnative speakers.
Prerequisite(s): ESL205.