Beginning in January 2015, the International Education Center (IEC) at Savannah State University (SSU) will offer rigorous English language classes for non-native speakers. Six levels of language training as well as instruction in listening/speaking, writing/grammar, reading and computer-assisted language learning will be made available. Non-degree-seeking students and the public will be encouraged to apply for the program in advance of beginning an undergraduate or graduate degree at SSU.

Joan Stalcup will coordinate the new English Language Institute (ELI). She brings more than 28 years of experience in teaching English as a second language. She began her career working with the Peace Corps in Costa Rica. Most recently she worked with international students at Georgian Southern University.

This addition to the offerings of the IEC further enhances the opportunities for SSU students for cultural outreach. The study abroad and exchange programs at SSU currently include more than 11 locations around the globe. Furthermore, the SSU campus will soon be home to the Confucius Institute, an educational partnership program with Jiujiang University in Jiangxi Province, China. SSU is also the educational cornerstone for 54 international students from 31 countries.

Emmanuel Naniuzeyi, Ph.D, director of the IEC, is hopeful this new initiative will “help internationalize our campus and foster greater understanding among peoples of diverse cultures.” The new program is currently accepting applications. Instruction will begin with spring semester.

For more information about international studies at SSU, visit: http://www.savannahstate.edu/academic-affairs/international-ed.shtml.