We are happy to advise staff in academic, recruiting, admissions, welfare and other functions on issues of:

• English language levels
• the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and other internationally recognised tests
• the progress of specific students (see the Referrals section)

Every year we run a Staff Development seminar on the IELTS test and related admissions matters. We are happy to arrange a department-specific session on request.

If a student or staff member is experiencing significant difficulties due to their level of English, they can be referred to the Unit for an initial assessment. We will provide a summary report and recommend a programme of further language development, either using our existing services or via a special one-to-one programme as agreed.

We have provided supported for students & staff across a whole range of subject areas and departments including:

• Art History
• Accounting & Finance
• Chemistry
• Life Sciences
• Medical Sciences
• University Archives
• Urban Studies

For new staff members whose first language is not English and who have a significant teaching or similar role, we will provide an initial assessment of spoken English skills and recommend a follow-up programme of self-study or further sessions, as required.

For specific groups of students within subject areas or throughout the Colleges, we can arrange customised classes either for remedial language work or for further development of English and academic skills. In addition, we can also set up credit-bearing courses within a particular subject area.

We currently provide or are developing the following:

• Accounting & Finance: general workshops plus remedial writing classes for students in the masters programmes
• Careers Service: cooperating on job application & interview skills training for international students
• College of Arts: research skills for postgraduates
• College of Social Sciences: 'Writing for the Academic Community' for research students (in conjunction with the College International Student officer and the Student Learning Service)
• Electrical Engineering: technical writing course for undergraduates
• School of Business: language support for MBA students from affiliated overseas institutions
• School of Medicine: language acclimatisation for trainee doctors from Malaysia