English Language Bridging
The English Language Bridging (ELB) course prepares you for academic study at the undergraduate, postgraduate, or diploma level at university. Students can study ELB as a pathway to Curtin University and can choose from both online and in-person study options. We have also introduced an ELB course that is taught exclusively online, for international students who want to improve their English communication skills for academic purposes without applying to Curtin.
Your English abilities will continue to develop through course learnings while your skills will expand to include academic literacy, critical thinking, and other skills that will prepare you for success in your university or college studies. Plus, you’ll get an early introduction to studying at Curtin by learning with the same tools and resources available to you at university.
The ELB course is for students with IELTS scores from 5.5 who need to meet entry requirements for Curtin University or Curtin College programs that require an IELTS score* of 6.0 and above.
*or its equivalent
What you’ll learn
The English Language Bridging curriculum will teach you:
- Curtin University systems
- extended academic writing
- critical thinking
- seminar discussion skills
- reading complex texts
- effective listening and note taking
- vocabulary and grammar
- oral presentation skills
- annotative bibliography
- research skills
- referencing
Study your way
You have the choice to study ELB in-person or online. In-person classes are offered full-time at Curtin University’s Perth campus. Online is available full-time and part-time with flexible timetable options to suit your schedule.
Study in-person
Our classes are designed to be highly interactive; you’ll learn through active participation in highly collaborative exercises designed to challenge your thinking. You’ll also have access to Curtin’s vibrant, inclusive campus and facilities to help you make the most of your student experience.
There are four durations for this study mode: 2 weeks, 9 weeks, 10 weeks, and 17 weeks. Contact hours are 20 hours per week with an expected additional 12 to 15 hours of self-study both individually or with your classmates.
Study online
Join us online for our engaging and interactive classes. Online courses run for 9 weeks, 10 weeks, and 17 weeks full time. There are 10 hours of ‘live’ classes where you will interact with your teacher and classmates and 10 hours of guided self-study done individually and with classmates, but supported by a “real” online tutor who will give you personalised feedback.
In addition, you are expected to study independently for 12 to 15 hours. The part-time online courses have half of the volume of work every week but double the number of weeks of study.
Course details
Completion of the English Language Bridging program transfers you into your chosen undergraduate, postgraduate or diploma course at Curtin University.
The course duration you will need is assessed on your current English language proficiency test score and the entry requirements for your university or college program.
Wondering which course duration you’ll need to complete? Use the pathway calculator to find out.
Requirements to pass
There is a range of different assessments during the course which will assess your skills in writing, reading, speaking and listening. The grade which you require to move on to the next stage of your learning will be stated in your letter of offer.
Course Dates
Fees
Unsure of your English skill level? Curtin English can provide a free online placement test, known as Password, to determine your current level of English and then to plan your pathway. This can be done through a Curtin registered agent or partner.
How to apply
For questions on applying or the application process, contact us via our online web form.
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