To request a customized English Language and Culture program at UT Austin, contact the special programs coordinator at esl_specialprograms@austin.utexas.edu.
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Language and Culture
The English Language and Culture program is tailored exactly to the needs of your group and combines superior language training with unique cultural experiences, helping each participant advance their knowledge, communication skills and cultural competency.
Please note, customized programs are only for groups. If you are an individual looking for English Language Center training, please see our other programs.
Program Highlights
- Intensive English as a Second Language coursework
- Unique cultural experiences through local events and excursions to other Texas cities
- Visa issuance and health insurance for participants
- Airport pickup and drop-off
- Comprehensive orientation covering academic, social, and cultural aspects of the program
- Room and board in a private dormitory
- Program reception and certificate ceremony
Program Details
Dates are flexible and programs range in length from four weeks to a full semester. Courses typically run for 4-6 weeks. Our regular program dates span 15 weeks in the Fall and Spring semesters and 10 weeks in the summer.
Participants attend classes 5 days per week for a total of 24 weekly contact hours. One afternoon of the week is dedicated to volunteering and/or local field trips. Excellent attendance is expected for all program components. Participants who attend 90% of the classes and successfully complete the program will receive program certificates.
Coursework
Class topics include:
- Listening and Speaking
- Grammar and Idioms
- Reading and Discussion
- Writing
- American Culture
- Communication Skills and Strategies
Social and Cultural Outings
During the week and on weekends, participants enjoy local cultural outings and excursions. Local events include trips to museums and other sights in Austin. Weekend excursions include trips to the Texas Hill Country, San Antonio, and Houston. Program staff provides a detailed event calendar and weekly updates on social media for participants. We are flexible to participants’ requests and events may be added based on interest and depending on availability.
Closing Reception and Program Certificate
At the conclusion of the program, Texas Global hosts a closing reception recognizing the accomplishments of each participant.
Program Logistics
We manage all program logistics, including visa issuance, health insurance, lodging and transportation.
Visa
English Language Center issues DS-2019 forms for participants to apply for J-1 visas for entry into the United States.
Health Insurance
Health insurance is included as a part of this program, enabling program participants to access the UT University Health Services, local hospitals and clinics.
Orientation
Upon arrival, English Language Center staff provides a specially designed orientation covering academic, social, and cultural aspects of this program as well as information about The University of Texas at Austin and available facilities. The orientation also includes a walking campus tour and visits to local historical, cultural and recreational sites around the city of Austin.
Room and Board
Participants stay at a private dormitory within walking distance to the UT campus. Each participant will share a bedroom with participants of the same gender in dormitories that offer 24-hour security services. A full-service cafeteria and 19 meals per week are provided (3 each weekday and 2 on weekends). Laundry facilities are available on site. A swimming pool, fitness center, TV rooms and general-purpose lounges are also available.