This is the preliminary (or launch) version of the 2025-2026 VCU Bulletin. Courses that expose students to cutting-edge content and transformative learning may be added and notification of additional program approvals may be received prior to finalization. General education program content is also subject to change. The final edition and full PDF version will include these updates and will be available in August prior to the beginning of the fall semester.
Moe Greene, Ph.D.
Director
mdgreene@vcu.edu
Overview
The English Language Program offers intensive university-preparation English courses for all language learners including international students, U.S. citizens, permanent residents and refugees. It provides students with opportunities to develop language skills and cultural competence through courses that are designed to facilitate their entry into and success in undergraduate and graduate programs. The program is fully accredited by the Commission on English Language Program Accreditation.
The program also serves all VCU faculty, advisors, administrators and institutional partners from around the world and regional and national communities in their work with English language learners. Students may apply directly to the ELP, or they may be recommended to the program by VCU's undergraduate or international admissions teams. Placement within the ELP is based on the results of the English language placement exam.
Mission
The English Language Program’s mission is to prepare students for academic, career and personal success through enhanced English language proficiency. The ELP achieves its mission by:
-
providing excellent instruction and advising within a safe, caring and inclusive environment;
-
offering comprehensive and structured curricula featuring academic preparation;
-
being a learner-centered and culturally diverse program;
-
taking advantage of local and global partnerships to broaden educational opportunities and cultural understanding;
-
and offering specialized short-term programs to advance English language learning for academic and professional reasons.
Program Curriculum
The English Language Program’s core courses are offered at three levels of instruction — beginning through advanced — in multiple sessions each year. The core courses offer an integrated approach to learning the requisite skills needed in academic and professional environments. In addition, the ELP offers short-term community-based courses on specialized topics covering pronunciation, test preparation and grammar.
The ELP supports classroom instruction and helps students meet course objectives and goals through advising, community engagement and student support services. Support services for international students are fully integrated, easy to access and designed to provide students with resources for meeting their academic and personal goals.
More information
For more information, prospective students may visit the English Language Program office at 912 W. Grace Street, by calling (804) 828-2551 or by emailing geo-elp@vcu.edu.