Pathway Program for English Language Learners
Current information appears on Castleton University pages for students entering in and prior to the 2022-2023 academic year.
If an international applicant does not meet Castleton University’s English proficiency requirements for admission, they may be admitted into the Pathway Program for English Language Learners. This program combines degree credit-bearing classes with developmental English language coursework to enable a student to pursue a degree from the University. Its focus is on developing English proficiency in reading, writing, speaking, and listening. The Pathway Program’s maximum duration is 30 weeks and is subdivided into two sessions corresponding with the two 15-week long semesters at Castleton. Assessment takes place at the end of each session (semester) and, if a student attains a level of proficiency that allows them to enter full-time into his/her degree program, they may do so the following semester. Upon successful completion of the Pathway Program, the student is enrolled full-time in a certified degree program of study and can access all classes offered by the University.
English Language Learners enrolled in the Pathway Program have all the benefits of matriculated Castleton students, including on campus housing, participation in the orientation program for international students in August, and other programs are run by the International Student Support Team.
Illustrative Example of a Class Schedule (6 English language developmental credits & 6 degree credits):
| Monday | Developmental ESL course Listening/Speaking & Credit bearing course (e.g. Soundings, iSeminar, math, performing arts) |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | Developmental ESL course Reading/Writing & Credit bearing course (e.g. Soundings, iSeminar, math, performing arts) |
| Wednesday | Developmental ESL course Listening/Speaking & Credit bearing course (e.g. Soundings, iSeminar, math, performing arts) |
| Thursday | Developmental ESL course Reading/Writing & Credit bearing course (e.g. Soundings, iSeminar, math, performing arts) |
| Friday | Developmental ESL course Listening/Speaking & Credit bearing course (e.g. Soundings, iSeminar, math, performing arts) |
All developmental ESL classes at Castleton are student- and learning-centered. Small class sizes allow students to receive individual feedback and support as needed. To supplement the formal learning in the classroom other co-curricular and social activities help to increase students’ confidence and competence in all English skill areas. This ensures that the Pathway Program students will have the opportunity to interact with Castleton faculty, staff and other students, and to experience U.S. culture while learning on a beautiful, modern campus with state-of-the-art facilities and enjoying the cultural and athletic programs available to all Castleton students.