Programs & Courses
Academic Programs
Classroom instruction
The PIE specializes in preparing students to meet the academic demands of studying at an American university. Our courses are designed to teach language skills, study skills, and strategies for success. Below is a list of our courses and brief descriptions of each class. The PIE offers courses following the university calendar. Fall semester begins at the end of August and runs through the first week of December. Spring semester begins mid-January and runs until the beginning of May. The PIE also offers one short term summer session. The summer session starts in July and continues through part of August. For exact dates for a particular semester, or session please check the university calendar.
Courses
" The PIE was so fun and interesting because I could learn about other countries and cultures while learning English, too."
Required Courses
Core Class. Learn what a “real” university class is like. A content-based course which integrates all aspects of language use (reading, writing, grammar, listening and speaking). This course simulates a university class and provides practice with university study skills. (8 hours per week)
Reading. Strengthen academic reading skills and strategies. This course combines whole class and individualized reading instruction to increase reading speed and comprehension. (3 hours per week)
Writing. Increase writing fluency and accuracy. This course helps students gain greater control over various genres of academic writing. (3 hours per week)
TOEFL. Practice for all sections of the TOEFL and learn valuable test-taking skills for regular university classes. (3 hours per week)
Listening and Speaking. Increase listening comprehension and speaking fluency and accuracy. This course helps students participate effectively in class discussions, give oral presentations, and listen to classroom lectures. (3 hours per week)
PIE students in class
Elective Courses
Conversation Partners. Meet with a graduate student each week to practice English. This is a great opportunity to improve conversation and listening skills in a fun, informal setting. (2 hours per week)
Intercultural Communication Class.Improve your intercultural awareness and cross-cultural communication in an informal setting. This class is a great opportunity to practice conversation and listening skills. (2 hours per week)
Multi-Experience. Volunteer each week at a local organization of your choice. This class provides an excellent opportunity to get to know Flagstaff, meet new people, talk to native English speakers, and learn new skills. (2 hours per week)
Academic Topics. Focus on important academic topics such as vocabulary development, study skills, and computer and research skills. Each week, students learn and practice skills and strategies essential for academic success. (2 hours per week)
Special Programs
Student with snowman
In addition to the regular academic programs, the PIE also offers a variety of special programs. We deliver custom language instruction for individuals or groups. Our programs range from one-to-one business tutorials, to short term summer programs for groups. Our summer groups can be 1 to 3 week sessions for high school or college students interested in American Language and Culture, or a specially designed program to meet your group’s needs and interests (for example, business English, technical English, etc.) We are happy to custom design an English language program for your group. Our programs are carefully designed to maximize exposure to a wide range of English speakers across a variety of situations. Please contact us to receive a proposal.
Last Updated: May 21, 2008