BCIT has launched a new English language upgrading pathway for both international and domestic students: English for Professional and Academic Success (EPAS). Communication Department Program Head Teresa Lacuna offers some insight below on the launch of EPAS and how it meets student needs.
“We want to ensure students are program-ready and prepared to thrive” – Teresa Lacuna, Program Head
Q: What is English for Professional and Academic Success (EPAS)?
Teresa Lacuna (TL): EPAS has replaced both Professional English Language Development (PELD) and the International Student Entry Program (ISEP).
EPAS builds on the strong foundation of both PELD and ISEP while introducing updates to better meet the evolving needs of the students we serve both locally in BC, and from all over the world. We continue to provide essential language training, including English 12 equivalency for direct entry to programs, as well as support for personal, academic, and workplace language goals.
Q: Who is EPAS designed for?
TL: The new EPAS offers two paths – a full-time program for international students and Flexible Learning course-by-course enrollment, either part-time or full-time, for domestic and local students.
Our BCIT curriculum and delivery have been refined to create a more streamlined, BCIT-ready experience for a broader range of learners, from English as an Additional Language (EAL/ESL) learners to first-language English speakers who need to upgrade their English skills.
Q: How is English Upgrading different at BCIT?
TL: By updating our curriculum and delivery model, EPAS ensures that domestic and international students, including working professionals, are not only meeting BCIT entry requirements but also developing the specific English language, study skills, and academic readiness needed for their BCIT programs and careers.
The EPAS curriculum includes topics in business, workplace, technology, and culture that are directly relevant to the BCIT class environment and to industry. We want to ensure students are program-ready and prepared to thrive – this is the applied approach that the BCIT Communication Department is known for.
Q: Where and when is EPAS offered?
TL: Registration for courses is open. Local and domestic students can select courses that are held in Burnaby, Downtown Vancouver, or online.
International students should apply for the full-time English for Professional and Academic Success Program.