University Foundations will introduce you to the skills & English you need for university. It will focus on academic English and skills while still covering grammar and other general English skills needed at this level. Successful completion of the University Foundations program allows you to join VGC’s Advanced University Preparation course which is the final step in preparing you for your academic career at a university in Canada.

Hundreds of VGC students have enjoyed seamless entry to a post-secondary institution through our Pathway Program. A student who successfully completes our University Preparation courses (University Foundations + Advanced University Preparation) can use our Pathway Program designed for direct entry into our selected group of post-secondary partners without the need to write an IELTS or TOEFL test. More importantly it prepares you to be successful in your studies at a Canadian university. Whether it be a diploma, bachelor’s or master’s degree, VGC students can use their University Preparation scores as proof of English language level.

University Foundations is also an excellent pathway into VGC International College’s School of International Business Programs.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

By the end of your studies in this course you will:

• have learned how to listen to lectures and take effective notes.
• be able to read critically with a healthy level of skepticism.
• have written effective essays, arguing a case, supported by reading and empirical evidence.
• have delivered university level oral presentations.
• participated in discussions and debates.
• have developed exam strategies to better your results.

Academic Essentials:

This part of the course will equip you with the core skills necessary for academic success at a Canadian university. You will develop your critical thinking and note taking skills as you listen, read and discuss various academic topics. You will also work on building your academic vocabulary and using complex grammatical structures.

University Communications:

In University Communications you will focus on two of the main areas required for all higher education courses –  writing and presentations. You will look at how to structure various types of academic writing, make an effective presentation and participate fully in a debate or discussion. You will also cover referencing, and how to avoid plagiarism.

Study Support and Presentations:

This block is set aside to allow for one-to-one feedback and support from the teacher. This time is used to give feedback on students’ work, for the student to ask questions, write a test or give a presentation.