Information for students

The ELSSA Centre enhances teaching and learning at UTS through a focus on academic and professional English language development, which involves reading, writing, listening, speaking, critical thinking and cultural knowledge.

The Centre collaborates with faculties and runs programs to meet the specific requirements and changing needs of undergraduate and postgraduate UTS students and staff. It also fosters interest in, and knowledge of, language and learning, through research, intellectual contributions and staff development.

In addition to a wide range of free academic and professional language development services available to UTS students who complete undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in English, the ELSSA Centre also offers elective subjects and award courses and programs (see below).

The ELSSA Centre also approves applications for special exam conditions from eligible non-English speaking background students.

Location, contacts and inquiries

Elective subjects

The ELSSA Centre offers one elective subject aimed specifically at students with language backgrounds other than English. This subject may be completed during semester. Enrolment in this subject does not reduce EFTSL from a student's SLE.

Semester 1 or 2

• 59316 English in a Faculty Context 6cp

Undergraduate course information

Undergraduate programs for international students

Advanced Diploma in Australian Language and Culture

The Centre offers the Advanced Diploma in Australian Language and Culture (C20030).

Australian English Language and Culture Program

The Australian English Language and Culture (AELC) Program is aimed at Study Abroad or exchange students who are not able to enrol in the Advanced Diploma in Australian Language and Culture. This program is not offered to local students. Students receive a Statement of Completion at the end of the course.

This program enables international students with language backgrounds other than English to develop their English language skills through the study of aspects of contemporary Australian society and culture. Through both class activities and excursions, it introduces students to a range of intercultural issues and provides them with opportunities to interact with native speakers in order to develop the cultural understanding, skills, knowledge and confidence required to use English and participate actively in a variety of settings.

The program focuses particularly on oral skills and includes some participation in mainstream University classes.

Admission requirements

The program is designed for students whose language level is below IELTS 5.0 or TOEFL 510 (computer 180).

Course duration

This program is completed over two semesters.

Course structure

This program consists of two full-time subjects, comprising 24 credit points each.

Course program

Semester 1

• 59314 Australian English Language and Culture 1 24cp

Semester 2

• 59315 Australian English Language and Culture 2 24cp

Other information

Contact the ELSSA Centre for more information on this program.