The purpose of the Certificates is to enable persons of different cultures and ethnic backgrounds to communicate meaningfully, to compete effectively, and to live full lives in a world where English is widely recognized as a highly useful tool of commerce, education, science, and art. These goals are precisely consistent with the mission of New Jersey City University which aspires to be the best urban institution of higher education in the United States. Located very near New York City, our campus combines traditional architecture with new and convenient facilities.

     Curriculum: The Certificate in American English includes required and elective courses in literature, composition, mass communications, creative writing, writing for business, accent reduction, and language study materials. The Certificate in Language and Culture includes American mythology, history, music, art, politics, sociology, and sociolinguistics. Students may create their own concentration in any of a wide range of areas such as business, literature, or art. These two Programs provide a high-level and intensive background in the language and culture of the USA, and are suitable for persons in business, education, diplomacy, government, and similar areas.

     Requirements for Entry: Applicants must score 500 or more on the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) and must have completed secondary school. Enrollment is limited, and early application is advised.
     It should be noted that students who are already working for a degree at New Jersey City University are not eligible for either of these Certificate Programs.

     Level of Study: These Programs were designed specifically for persons who have already attained a relatively high ability in English. Persons interested in beginning and lower intermediate courses are not encouraged to apply.

     Length of Study: The courses have been arranged so that either Certificate can be obtained in one 15-week semester. This pace is certainly not required, but, if necessary, the program officers will go to great lengths to locate courses that can be substituted for those in the established curriculum. In other words, if a student wishes to complete a Certificate in one semester, that will be possible.

     Visas: Since the Certificate Programs are integral parts of this University, students normally have no difficulty in obtaining an I-20 Student Visa.

     Location: New York City is separated from Jersey City by the Hudson River. Many of our teachers and students live in New York and commute via subway, bus or private car.

     Accreditation: New Jersey City University is a fully accredited institution with a beautiful campus, an up-to-date library, and a full array of computer facilities. Approximately 6,000 students are enrolled in undergraduate and graduate programs.

     Participants come from various parts of the world and are diverse in background and age. Some are businessmen, teachers, government officials, university students, and retired professionals sharing a wish to improve their English.

     Cost: Full-time Certificate students pay the same tuition and other fees as regular undergraduates. Those costs are presently under $5,000 per semester for out-of-state residents; under $3,000 for in-state residents. For updated information consult the University web site at www.njcu.edu (Financial Aid-tuition and fees).

     Housing and Incidentals: Students are responsible for providing their own housing, food, books, transportation, medical care, and incidental items.

     Transfer Credits: No credits from another institution may be transferred to either Certificate Program. However, most of the credits earned here can be transferred to a regular undergraduate (bachelor's) program at this University.

     Advice and Support: The Director, the Program Administrator, and ESL faculty in general are pleased to assist certificate students at the University. The ESL Program also provides special support services such as tutoring, a computer lab, and a Resource Center with books, audiocassettes and videotapes, which are available to students enrolled in one of the Certificate Programs.

     General Information: Contact Clyde Coreil, Ph.D., Director;
Telephone: 201-200-3237 or 201-200-3087
E-mail: rcoreil@njcu.edu.us
Fax: 201-200-2202.

     Application Information: Contact Marian Leonor, Ed.D., Assistant Director,
Telephone: 201-200-2174
E-mail: mleonor@njcu.edu.us
Fax: 201-200-2202.

Dr. Coreil and Dr. Leonor maintain offices in:

Hepburn Hall Room 111
New Jersey City University
Jersey City; New Jersey, 07305, USA.

Start of Programs: Spring 2002

Official certificates are awarded by the University upon completion of all requirements for each program.