The Intensive English Program (IEP) at St. Mary's University is designed to provide international students and other interested clientele the English language training necessary to gain proficiency in English language skills as pre-academic preparation or professional development. It provides prospective students who do not meet English language proficiency admission requirements an opportunity to develop the requisite level of proficiency to engage in post-secondary or graduate studies. For professionals, the IEP can enhance critical oral and written English communication skills. Finally, for family members of our international students, the IEP provides an opportunity to develop English language skills during their time in San Antonio.

Mission Statement

The Intensive English Program complements the mission of St. Mary's University to educate leaders for the common good by creating opportunities for improved communications between peoples from different societies and cultures. Communication is the cornerstone of understanding and understanding is essential for leadership.

IEP Program Description

The Intensive English Program at St. Mary's is composed of three levels: Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced. Each level entails 12 weeks of instruction with 18 hours of coursework and ten hours of lab work each week for a total of 336 total hours of instruction at each level. A Certificate of Completion will be awarded to participants who successfully complete the Advanced level. Initial placement in a level is determined by a diagnostic test administered on the first day of studies.

Participants who are not pursuing a certificate of completion will not be required to complete all 336 hours of instruction in any one level and will select courses based upon interest and ability.

The classes cover listening/speaking, writing, reading/vocabulary, grammar, and critical thinking/study skills. Additional individual support will be provided by qualified tutors at St. Mary's Learning Assistance Center. Class size will be limited to a maximum of ten participants.

For prospective students, the IEP curriculum is structured to prepare students for college-level programs; hence, the IEP is an option for those international students who do not have the required TOEFL/IELTS scores necessary for admission to St. Mary's or other institutions of higher education where English is the primary language of instruction.

Why IEP at St. Mary's?

St. Mary's University, a private Catholic, Marianist University, is the first institution of higher learning in San Antonio and the oldest Catholic university in Texas and the Southwest. A nationally recognized liberal arts institution with a diverse student population of nearly 4,000 of all faiths and backgrounds, St. Mary's provides an ideal setting for an Intensive English Program. Located on 135 acres northwest of downtown San Antonio, the campus of St. Mary's is a comfortable environment for learning but is also convenient for those who want to explore the lively and interesting city. St. Mary's serves the various communities of San Antonio, the Southwest, the nation and the world through the intellectual, spiritual, moral, and professional leadership of its faculty, administration, staff, and students.