Online Pre-Sessional English (OPSE) Information
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements of your chosen degree programme, we are offering a new, 100% online pre-sessional English qualification, that supports entry throughout the academic year.
Even if you have already met the English Language requirements for your degree course, the OPSE is an excellent way to practice and improve your language skills and gain first-hand experience of academic study in a different country and context.
The University of Cumbria Online Pre-sessional English (OPSE) courses are delivered by our friendly and qualified English Language Partner – Oxford International Digital Institute. Choose a length to suit your language needs, prepare for your journey to the UK and start your degree studies with success.
You can check start dates for the current academic year here.
Programme Highlights
The Online Pre-Sessional English (OPSE) programme aims to prepare you for UK academic study. We offer 6-week and 12-week Online Pre-Sessional English courses (OPSE) in partnership with Oxford International Digital Institute.
The OPSE provides:
- 6 and 12-week courses
- Varied start dates throughout the academic year
- Daily live sessions and tutorials
- Structured online learning activities
- Face-to-face classroom-based lessons
- Online support from a dedicated tutor
- Self-directed study and homework
Successfully completing the award will help you to:
- meet the minimum English language requirements for your chosen degree programme
- develop your speaking and listening skills, including presentations and seminar discussions
- develop key academic and research skills
- improve your reading and writing skills, including how to write in the correct academic style using references and sources
Requirements
If you are studying on the OPSE you will be required to have access to a microphone, headset and webcam on your laptop / computer, as well as a reliable internet connection.
Once you have registered you will receive a welcome pack with a scheme of work, an email address and extensive technical guides on how to take part in your lessons
Registration
To register for one of our Online Pre-Sessional English courses you will need to provide evidence of your current English Language level. You will be advised by our Admissions team which English Language tests we will accept for entry.
To check which length of course would be most suitable for your individual needs, please refer to the tables here*. Please note that these are guidelines only.
Please use this link to apply for one of our OPSE courses.
Course Details
As a University of Cumbria student, you will be assigned to a class with a maximum of 12 students and a dedicated teacher. The class teacher assesses all of your work and is available to offer support to you outside the live online lessons.
Your 6 weeks of study aims to improve your IELTS score by 0.5 of a band and prepare you for English language level examinations conducted at the end of your course.
Our Online Pre-Sessional English course will improve your understanding and use of the English Language. The course will also improve your academic skills and set you up for university-level study.
The OPSE aims to improve your skills in the following areas:
- Writing
- Reading
- Speaking
- Listening
- Digital Literacy
- Mediation
Your weekly teaching will include:
- Structured online learning activities
- Face-to-face classroom-based lessons
- Online support from a dedicated tutor
- Self-directed study and homework
Study Time:
- Classes are delivered Monday – Friday
- Live lessons last between 90 – 120 minutes per day
- Lessons take place between 09.00 – 14.00 BST*
*Lesson times are subject to change
Course Costs
The 6-week Online Pre-Sessional Course is priced at £1,590
The 12-week Online Pre-Sessional Course is priced at £2,590
This covers:
- 5 or 11 weeks live Pre-Sessional English Tuition
- Ongoing teacher feedback and support
- Access to Microsoft Teams to share assignments, feedback and materials
- Unique guided self-study via Oxford International’s Virtual Learning Campus (VLC) for up to 3 months after the course.
- All lessons are recorded and can be reviewed later
- Password English Language Test
Application and Registration:
You can apply for our 6 or 12-week Online Pre-Sessional English courses here.