An EAP Course for Chinese MBA Students

Abstract

This article describes an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) course for Chinese Master of Business Administration (MBA) students. Unequal English language learning opportunities overseas means that many otherwise excellent candidates are denied access to graduate programs at Canadian universities. Consequently, the Second Language Institute at the University of Ottawa decided to make ESL training estimates based on scores from the Canadian Test of English for Scholars and Trainees (CanTEST) for a group of Chinese applicants to the University of Ottawa's MBA program. Thirty-four candidates participated in an innovative EAP course that combined teaching language, study, and acculturation skills, whereas some candidates were also required to complete 240 to 480 hours of Intensive Four Skills English before undertaking the EAP course. Successful completion of the EAP course constituted fulfilling the requirements for admission into the MBA program. Teaching staff from both the Faculty of Administration and the Second Language Institute provided input into the EAP course.