Mount Royal University and Ambrose University have signed an agreement that will open more doors for international students who require additional English language training to enter into their chosen post-secondary degree.
Ambrose, which does not have an English language program of their own, recognized a need to develop a new English language pathway for international students. That solution was found by partnering with Mount Royal's innovative Language Education for Academic Purposes (LEAP) program.
Effective April 13, this partnership allows for students who want to enrol in a program at Ambrose, but do not currently meet the English language requirements, to meet those requirements by completing the LEAP program at Mount Royal.
"The partnership is a win for international students," says Dr. Pam Nordstrom, PhD, provost and vice-president, Academic at Ambrose University.
"By working together, we're adding value to the undergraduate experience and diversifying pathways for international students to successfully meet the English language proficiency requirements and pursue their post-secondary goals."
Dianne MacDonald, director of International Education at Mount Royal University
LEAP is a full-time English language program that offers high-quality instruction over the course of 15 months. With a strong focus on how English is used in academic studies, students are able to develop the language skills necessary for post-secondary success. By completing the program, students gain the confidence and skills for a smooth transition into credit classes for undergraduate degrees. LEAP is led by Teachers of English as a Second Language (TESL) certified and experienced instructors, accredited by Languages Canada and offered in four levels of increasing difficulty.
"MRU has an impressive history of equipping international students for success in post-secondary studies. Students applying to Ambrose will now have direct access to the LEAP program so they can develop their language skills prior to beginning their studies in degree programs. We celebrate this new pathway for students who want to study in Alberta and value the collaborative engagement with MRU," Nordstrom says.
After meeting the English Language Proficiency requirement through completion of LEAP 4, Mount Royal students who also meet the additional admission requirements can apply to their desired program at MRU. Similarly, upon completion of LEAP through this new partnership, students can transition back to Ambrose to continue their studies.
"Mount Royal values the importance of strategic partnerships that create high-impact learning opportunities for students. This partnership with Ambrose does just that," says Dianne MacDonald, director of International Education at Mount Royal.
"By working together,"By working together, we're adding value to the undergraduate experience and diversifying pathways for international students to successfully meet the English language proficiency requirements and pursue their post-secondary goals."
By Rachel von Hahn
