English language programs
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The JCU Pathway College (courses delivered by Union Institute of Language CRICOS Provider: 02529F) aims to provide students with a clear pathway to tertiary study in tropical Queensland, through innovative English language programs designed to pave the way to higher education.
JCU Pathway College is the on-campus English language centre at Tropical North Queensland TAFE, Cairns Campus.
Students can meet the English entry requirements for direct entry into Tropical North Queensland TAFE certificate and diploma programs and selected degrees at James Cook University by first studying academic English.
There are top reasons for studying at JCU Pathway College:
- Classes are small and teachers are supportive of individual student's needs
- Teachers carefully monitor progress and learning
- Innovative teaching methods that involve active learning and using language frequently
- Reputation for achieving significant language improvement
- Excellent student support and care for settling into Cairns
- Cairns is a safe, clean and friendly studying and living environment.
Students who study English at JCU Pathway College have access to Tropical North Queensland TAFE's numerous facilities.
Direct Entry English Programs - English for Academic Purposes
English for Academic Purposes is taught through the Direct Entry English Programs (DEEP). Classes focus on academic requirements and expectations, and learning strategies need at a tertiary level.
Entry into DEEP requires a minimum IELTS score or an equivalent English language rating such as TOEFL, Cambridge and PTE. Students can also gain entry using a DEEP entry test or by following a General English pathway.
DEEP consist of three levels, each for a specific Tropical North Queensland TAFE or James Cook University entry requirement.
DEEP 1 - 10 weeks
Entry requirement: IELTS 5.0 (with a minimum 4.5 in all sub-scores) or equivalent English language ratings.
Purpose: Entry into certificates and Diplomas.
DEEP 1 is designed to equip you with basic academic language skills at an upper-intermediate level. During the course, you will increase your grammar and vocabulary knowledge and develop your academic English macro-skills (speaking, listening, reading, and writing). You will also learn how to speak at seminars, conduct minor research and write reports, and make oral presentations.
Assessment includes progress tests, mid-course and end of course tests, essays, oral presentations, and participation in seminars.
DEEP 2 - 10 weeks
Entry requirement: DEEP1, IELTS 5.5 (with a minimum 5.0 in all sub-scores) or equivalent English language ratings.
Purpose: Entry into selected James Cook University degrees.
DEEP 2 is designed to help you raise your academic English and study skills to an advanced level. The course uses specific academic English knowledge and skills to participate successfully in degree courses. This course is also an academic English pathway for students into DEEP 3 intended to study the Diploma of Nursing at Tropical North Queensland TAFE.
DEEP 3 - 10 weeks
Entry requirement: DEEP 2, IELTS 6.0 (with a minimum 5.5 in all sub-scores) or equivalent English language ratings.
Purpose: Entry into Diploma of Nursing (Enrolled Nurse/Division 2) at Tropical North Queensland TAFE and selected James Cook University degrees including postgraduate degrees.
DEEP 3 is designed to take you to the highest academic level for direct entry to the Diploma of Nursing and degrees and postgraduate degrees. For James Cook University degrees requiring IELTS 7 or higher, students must undertake an IELTS exam after the course and achieve the required score to gain entry.
General English - up to 40 weeks
General English courses are offered from elementary to advanced levels. The courses run full-time, 25 hours per week, Monday through Friday. Students can study up to 40 weeks.
General English programs are designed to:
- Develop formal and everyday language skills
- Provide you a foundation of essential language skills required in educational and workplace environments
- Focus on intensive learning for higher fluency and achievement of proficiency
- Develop proficiency for entry into DEEP 1.
Assessment
A pre-enrolment test is available on campus or through selected education agents. All students must complete a level placement test on the first day. Weekly in-class assessment is in the cores areas of listening, speaking, reading, writing, grammar, and vocabulary. Weekly assessment may also include a presentation or a structured discussion. Every five weeks, progress testing is conducted and a progress report is provided.
Dates and fees
Enrolment and resource cost
- Enrolment Fee $200
- Text Book Fee 1 - 10 weeks $60
- 11+ weeks $120
Tuition cost
General English* (CRICOS 050102B)
- Full-time $305/week
- Courses commence every Monday
English for Academic Purposes and Direct Entry English Program (DEEP 1, DEEP 2, DEEP 3) (CRICOS 050110B)
- Full-time: $305 per week = $3,050
Dates:
- 25 June 2012 - 31 August 2012
- 3 September 2012 - 9 November 2012
- 12 November 2012 - 1 February 2013
Need more information?
Find out more about enrolling.



