Michigan Technological University

Department of Humanities

Intensive English as a Second Language

Welcome to the Intensive English as a Second Language (IESL) Program at Michigan Tech.

As a Michigan Tech IESL student, you will attend classes on the University campus with other university students. You will have access to a computer lab, learning centers, the university library, and much more. While you are completing IESL study, you will begin your transition to academic study in your chosen major. IESL students may study for a degree in any of the many majors offered. Examples of majors are Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science, Biological Sciences, Business and Scientific & Technical Communication.

We look forward to introducing you to a safe and friendly place where you will study English and prepare for academic study.

Best wishes,

Beatrice B. Smith
Interim Director, IESL Program

Mission and Goals

Mission

To attract highly qualified international students; to provide them with rigorous English language instruction; to prepare them for successful undergraduate and graduate study; and to model exemplary language teaching practices for TESOL certificate candidates at Michigan Technological University.


Goals 

To provide evidence-based instruction in English for Academic Purposes that prepares international students for study at the undergraduate and graduate levels; to provide academic support in ESL for undergraduate and graduate students; to provide orientation, advising, and other assistance that prepares international students for academic study; to provide model practices and experiences for candidates in the TESOL certificate program; and to prepare students to “create the future” they desire.

Program Description

The IESL Program offers intensive English instruction for academic purposes to prepare students for academic study. Applicants must submit a TOEFL or IELTS score to be considered. Conditional admission is offered to students interested in undergraduate study at the university but do not have the required English language test score.

  • IESL courses are offered during Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters. The Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters are 14 weeks long. IESL courses follow the university calendar.
  • Michigan Tech also offers a summer intensive language and cultural experience for international students (SMILE).
  • IESL classes meet 18-21 hours per week and meet in university classrooms on campus. Instruction includes reading, vocabulary, writing, grammar, listening, speaking, and pronunciation.
  • Placement tests include listening, vocabulary, grammar, and reading comprehension. Short interviews are conducted to test speaking fluency.
  • Course levels are intermediate, advanced, transitional, and academic support. At the transitional level, students may enroll in English for math, science, engineering, or business. Advising for students is provided by both the IESL program and the academic departments.
  • Attendance is mandatory as required by Michigan Tech and the Department of Homeland Security.
  • Students register for courses as Michigan Tech students.
  • Students receive evaluations of their progress at mid-term and at the end of the semester. Evaluation is based on homework, quizzes, tests, reports, presentations, participation, effort, and attendance.
  • Students participate in a Conversation Partner program.
  • Orientation and advising are provided.
  • Student housing is available on campus.
  • Michigan Tech provides transportation for students from the Hancock, CMX airport to student housing on campus.
  • Intensive English as a Second Language Program
    Walker Arts & Humanities Center
    Michigan Technological University
    1400 Townsend Drive
    Houghton, MI 49931-1295 USA
  • Telephone: 906-487-3229
    Fax: 906-487-3559
    Email: iesl@mtu.edu

Humanities

Walker Arts & Humanities Center
1400 Townsend Drive
Houghton, Michigan 49931-1295

Ph. 906-487-2540
Fax: 906-487-3559
Email: humanities@mtu.edu

Michigan Technological University

1400 Townsend Drive
Houghton, Michigan 49931-1295
906-487-1885

See a Problem?

Email the Webmaster