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ELP (English Language Program)

Candidates for the priesthood reflect the rich tapestry of languages and cultures found in the United States. In order to assist those whose first language is not English, St. Patrick's offers classes in Reading, Writing/Composition, Grammar, Pronunciation, and Public Speaking. These classes provide opportunities to deepen the student's comprehension of English for their theological studies, as well as helping them to become better acquainted with the language and culture of the United States. English classes are open to any student who wishes to improve any and all English skills.

The program offers flexibility, so that if a faculty member sees a need for something not already in the program, the teachers can easily incorporate it into the curriculum. The advantages of the English Language Program are that the students are taking English classes concurrently with their regular theological classes allowing for a total immersion in the seminary formation program, and the small classes allow for continual interaction and practice of the language during each class period.

Students who need or want accent reduction or pronunciation have the opportunity for private tutoring, classes which are also incorporated into the regular program. Students also have access to supplemental materials.

The specific goals of the English Language Program are:

Assessment/Admission/Requirements for ELP

Students from outside the U.S. will be asked to take the TOEFL test prior to entering the seminary and should have approximately a score of 550 (paper test), 213-215 (computer based), 80 (Internet). However, this does not mean that the student is exempt from taking classes in the program. This is determined through further assessment.

All seminarians are assessed for their writing skills through the writing of an essay as part of the regular seminary admissions process to determine if they will be in the English Language Program. If a student does not have appropriate skills, he may be asked to take intensive English classes outside the seminary in preparation for his studies at St. Patrick's.

Once the student is admitted to the seminary, and it has been determined through his written skills that he may need to take English classes, his grammar, listening, and comprehension skills with be further assessed as part of the orientation process through a standardized test. Recommendations for students to be in the English Program can also come from vocation directors, faculty members, or the Director of the English Language program. The recommendation extends to foreign-born students who may already be residents or citizens.

Students are required to take three hours per week of English in the regular program. Some students are also required to take Pronunciation or accent Reduction in addition to these three hours. Students who voluntarily want to take classes may do so with a minimum of two hours a week. For any student in the program, the regular attendance policy is enforced. Many students continue their English studies during their entire formation process at St. Patrick’s Seminary. Students who wish extra tutoring can make appointments for this during the regular school term. Students are graded and given credits for regular English classes.

For students who are having difficulty in their regular theology classes due to language problems must make English a priority. In this case, the decision is made by both the Academic Dean and the Director of the English Language Program.

A recommendation for summer classes in English can also be made by the Academic Dean, Director of ELP, or the vocation director if a student is not making satisfactory progress.

Expectations

By the time a student finishes his English studies at St. Patrick's Seminary and University, he should be able to:

Addendum to ELP Faculty

Full Time Faculty

Haupt, Monica
Director/Instructor, English Language Program Adjunct Faculty Campbell, Kenneth C. Tutor
Landi, Sr. Veronica O.P.