The English Language Institute (ELI) at the University of Houston-Downtown (UHD) offers an intensive English program designed to prepare internationals to study in U.S. universities or to acquire English language career skills. The ELI meets the standards and is a member of AAIEP.

Special Benefits for ELI Students

• No TOEFL score required of recommended ELI graduates to enter UHD
• Online TOEFL and TOEIC preparation courses
• 3-hours academic credit at UHD for ELI graduates
• Certificates of completion and graduation
• Students can finish two levels in one semester
• Free fieldtrips and activities
• Occasional afternoon classes: TOEFL Prep, Pronunciation and Conversation
• Special afternoon projects
• Full gymnasium privileges
• Student Health Center
• Airport pickup; schedule ahead of time, both major airports

Programs

• Intensive English Program - develops all English Language Skills
  • 20 hours/week instruction
  • 20 hours/week free lab
  • 6½-week sessions
  • 8 levels
  • Grammar, writing, reading, listening and speaking skills taught daily
  • Placement testing for initial level placement
  • 5-19 students per class; average class size is 14
• Tutorial Business English Program for international business professionals
• Tutorials custom-designed for participant's field of work
• Custom-designed programs for groups

Laboratories

• 1 Sanako language laboratory
• 2 PC computer laboratories with internet

Instructional Technology

• Digital projectors
• Document cameras
• Smart board and Sympodium (interactive whiteboard)
• Clickers
• Digital Voice Recorders

Activities

• Field trips & parties
• Movies & Games
• Afternoon group projects
• University clubs
• Orientations
• University events
• Sports

Instructors

• Professionals, most with Masters in TESL or related fields
• Highly rated by students
• 5 or more years experience in U.S. and abroad
• Experienced in student counseling and cross-cultural training

Costs/Session for Intensive English Program

• Tuition is very reasonable.
• Discounts are given when students register for two sessions.
• See our website for costs of all programs: www.uhd.edu/eli

University Programs at UHD

• Full service university with an enrollment of over 13,000 students
• Bachelor degree programs
• Some masters programs, including MBA
• Comprehensive international student services
• Small classes and attentive professors
• Accredited by SACS, AACSB, ABET

Housing

• Host family program
• Reasonably priced, readily available apartments in Houston
• Housing locators

Philosophy

The future peace and prosperity of the world depend upon bonds of friendship and understanding between the many cultures of the world. Language is a first step to that understanding. We provide internationals with a meaningful introduction to North American culture, as well, and help UHD students learn more about their world neighbors. To support students in these areas, we prepare them for continued education in the American university system.

Location

• Exciting, cosmopolitan Houston, known for the oil and space industries
• Near Galveston Island on Gulf of Mexico
• Near NASA
• University located in thriving business center of Houston
• Houston's mild climate and easy transportation attract many visitors

Standards

The ELI endorses the NAFSA Principles of International Educational Exchange and the TESOL Standards for Postsecondary Programs. The ELI is a member in full standing of the American Association of Intensive English Programs (AAIEP).