Academic English Programs in Alabama

English Language and Culture Institute - University of Alabama at Birmingham:
The English Language and Culture Institute (ELCI) is a professional resource for English language learning and cross-culture training located in the School of Education at the University of Alabama in Birmingham, Jefferson County, Alabama in the southern region of the USA. English language study: English for Academic Purposes, English for Corporate/Professional Purposes, and English for the Community. Cross-cultural communication seminars are also available for groups interested in increasing their cross-cultural knowledge and communicative ability. The ELCI offers a range of ESL courses to students, area residents, business people, local corporations, and international visitors. As the city's professional language learning resource for adults and higher education, the ELCI is committed to "Bridging Cultures through Language" through playing an active role in our region's emerging international identity.

The English Language and Culture Institute (ELCI) exists to serve the needs of non-native English speakers in the central Alabama region through superior English language training. The ELCI also exists to serve as a cross-cultural training resource for Americans and internationals in the Birmingham area. Part-time and full-time English language courses are offered through our institute. As a special service to local companies, classes and training are available on site.

Mission:
The ELCI strives to foster communication among cultures through innovative English language courses and cross-cultural training opportunities.

Purpose:
The ELCI has a three-fold purpose in its commitment to the metropolitan Birmingham area:

1. To address the unmet English language learning needs of UAB’s international community, specifically its undergraduate student population, and provide necessary cross-cultural learning opportunities for international students.
2. To meet the specific needs of employees of greater Birmingham area businesses in the areas of English language study and/or cross-cultural training.
3. To provide relevant, need-based English language instruction to Birmingham’s international community at large.

Intensive English Program with Pronunciation and Accent Training, Improving Listening Skills, Study Skills, Intercultural Communication, TOEFL Prepatation, SAT Preparation, GRE Preparation; Part-time English Language Study; Cross-cultural Communication Training; Workplace English Programs; Specialized Intensive English Programs; Corporate English Tutoring.

Accommodation:
On-campus housing is available. Please apply in advance to reserve a room.

Student Activities:
The ELCI offers a variety of out-of-class activities for students to practice their English and experience the culture and history of Birmingham, Alabama, and the southeastern United States. Examples of activities include friendship partners, English corner, field trips to local museums and state parks, and optional weekend outings to build friendships with students and teachers.