The Rider University Pathways Program combines undergraduate university level credit-bearing courses and intensive academic English training. The Pathways Program provides continued language support as international students begin their academic programs.
Program Highlights
- Small classes so you get personal attention
- Instructors with advanced degrees and years of teaching experience
- Innovative classroom technology
- Our Office of International Education offers comprehensive support before coming to campus, including pre-arrival information, new student orientation, and immigration advisement
- Academic advising for transition to credit-bearing courses
- Airport pick up
- On-campus housing options
- Full access to University clubs, activities, resources and services, including the library, student recreation center, social activities, and health services.
Sample Pathways Program Student Schedule
| Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reading | 3-credit course | Reading | 3-credit course | Reading |
| Writing | 3-credit course | Writing | 3-credit course | Writing |
| Lunch | ||||
| 3-credit course | Listening & Notetaking Skills | 3-credit course | Listening & Notetaking Skills | 3-credit course |
Curriculum
Pre-Academic Reading and Writing
From Beginner to Pre-Academic levels, the Reading/Writing courses prepare students to master simple sentence and paragraph structures, develop vocabulary and grammar skills to improve writing, and practice writing academic paragraphs and short essays that respond directly to assigned readings.
Pre-Academic Electives
In the News
This class focuses on listening and speaking fluency as students learn to comfortably discuss current news events and develop their skills in giving speeches and debating their opinion. Students will have the ability to develop oral fluency, cultural knowledge, pronunciation, and the organization of ideas for better communication. This class is for High Intermediate levels and above.
Current News
This class focuses on reading and writing about current events. Students will learn how to summarize and analyze current events through discussion and formal writing. Students will have the ability to develop organizational skills, cultural and social knowledge, and analytical skills.
Pre-Academic Listening and Speaking
From Beginner to Pre-Academic levels, the Listening/Speaking courses prepare students to develop listening and speaking skills related to themes and ideas introduced in class and assigned text units. TED Talks, interviews, lectures and other genres are used to address authentic language.
6-7 undergraduate credits
Courses chosen in consultation with an Academic Advisor. View course schedule
Number of Hours
9 hours of intensive English and 6 to 7 undergraduate credits
Entrance Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent. High school students in their final semester may apply to Pathways before graduating from high school.
- Minimum high school GPA of 2.5 (out of 4.0 scale).
- Minimum English Language Proficiency test score of TOEFL 71 or IELTS 6.0
Students who do not meet the minimum required English Proficiency for IPAS may enroll in the Intensive English Program
Start Dates
September and January