As international students look into different study abroad options, they might encounter unfamiliar programs called pathway programs and university transfer programs. In this blog, we’ll explain what these programs are, and how they can help international students prepare for studying in the United States. We’ll also share some featured programs!
Pathway and transfer programs share benefits, like helping international students adjust to the class structure and assessment styles of American colleges and universities. They also give students time to experience the local culture, and practice their language skills in an immersive environment. However, these programs also have significant differences, so students will want to choose the best option for their academic goals.
Considering different study abroad destinations? Look at pathway program options in Canada.
About Pathway Programs
A pathway program is an introductory course that is completed before enrolling at a university or college. In the US, they may also be called “bridge programs.” Pathway programs are designed to help international students prepare for and gain access to a postsecondary program if they’re not able to enter the institution directly.
Some students may choose to take an English pathway program if their IELTS or TOEFL score is too low, or instead of taking the language proficiency test. This is because the successful completion of a pathway program will fulfill many institutions’ English-language requirements.
For example, Spring International Language Centers offers English pathway programs at their campuses in Arkansas and Colorado. Their programs, which run for 25 hours per week for nine weeks, help students to:
- Listen more accurately
- Boost their reading comprehension
- Improve their academic writing skills
- Speak more fluently
Considering pathway programs? Look at the University of Pittsburgh’s English Language Institute. It offers a CEA-accredited program with classes at five different proficiency levels. The program runs for 13 weeks, with full-day classes four days a week, and hones students’ academic and professional language skills.
Pathway Program Benefits:
- Lots of opportunities to improve your English language skills.
- Students can gain an early introduction to the university’s teaching and assessment style ahead of entering university programs.
- Access to dedicated faculty who are experts in teaching international students.
- Study alongside and build friendships with other international students.
- The on-campus learning experience helps international students integrate into American culture.
- Some programs offer homestay options with local families.
- Access to campus resources and facilities, like gyms and libraries.
The Silicon Valley Intensive English Program at the Colleges of San Mateo offers high-quality language preparation. Pathway programs range from eight to 32 weeks in duration, and students who complete SVIEP Level 4 are guaranteed admission to the San Mateo Colleges of Silicon Valley.
About University Transfer Programs
University transfer programs offer the equivalent of first-year courses, taught on-campus by instructors trained to work with international students. Many students will complete a transfer program and then shift to the second or third year of their studies as part of the general student population. Unlike pathway programs, students will earn academic credit for completing university transfer programs.
These programs are often smaller in size than standard first year classes. In fact, the average size of a first year transfer program is 35 students, vs. up to 300 in some first year university classes! Transfer program classes are exclusively for international students, which can give participants a chance to learn from each other, share experiences, and even work through adjusting to a new culture together.
Transfer Program Benefits
- Tailored instruction from faculty trained in working with international students.
- Small class sizes mean that instruction is more personalized.
- Missing admission requirements for a college or university program? Obtain your admission requirements, upgrade your academic skills, and even earn credits toward your future program.
- Complete your program in the same amount of time as a standard university program, with extra resources to help you succeed.
- Access to on-campus resources like student support programs, libraries, clubs, and gyms.
- Looking for a pathway to university? These programs prepare students for success at any level of study.
Featured Programs
- Passionate about the arts? Check out Chemeketa Community College’s Associate of Arts transfer degrees. With majors ranging from Anthropology to Journalism, these two-year degrees offer a range of possibilities.
- Consider the two-year Associate of Arts: Humanities degree at Shoreline Community College. Its interdisciplinary approach is designed to meet the requirements for the first two years of study for most four-year degrees.
- Valencia College’s Associate of Arts transfer degree in Nutrition and Dietetics is designed to support students’ transition to a Florida public university as a junior to complete a four-year bachelor’s degree in Nutrition and Dietetics.
Both transfer programs and English pathway programs can help international students achieve their dreams of studying abroad. We wish you the best in your study abroad journey!
