In-sessional English Courses
Academic English and Study Skills Courses
Studying at university can be challenging. We can help you gain confidence in communicating effectively in your academic studies. We also offer you opportunities to improve your social language skills, better understand British culture, and take the opportunity to meet other students from around the world.
Our courses are free to students who:
- Are currently enrolled on a degree course at the University of Lincoln
- Speak English as an additional language
Please contact us at internationalcollege@lincoln.ac.uk if you have any queries.
Registration is now closed. If you have any queries, please contact the International College.
The next registration period is expected to open in early February 2025.
Future Courses
Find out about some of the Academic English and Study Skills courses that we offer.
Make sure you read the Course Details section below for more information on what is currently running. More courses will be available in early February.
Course Details
English for Dissertation Writing
Researching and writing a master’s dissertation or a PhD thesis can be a daunting task which comes with a set of challenges that are quite different from those associated with undergraduate study. This course will guide you through the process of writing a dissertation. It will cover aspects of research and writing skills such as literature reviews, methodologies, results and discussions. The course is primarily for postgraduate students but may also be available for third-year undergraduate students, dependent on space.
On Campus
Weekly classes on Mondays 2:00pm-4:00pm
10 February - 31 March 2025
Registration opens in January!
Academic Writing Skills
Academic writing is a key skill you will encounter in your studies at university; however, it is not always easy to be an effective academic writer. This course will cover all key components of academic writing, from structuring essays and arguments; using and presenting evidence; and academic stylistic conventions. This course is helpful for both undergraduate and postgraduate students.
Weekly classes on Tuesdays 3:00pm-5:00pm
18 February - 11 March 2025
Registration opens in January!
Academic Grammar
Extend your command and understanding of standard grammar through this new short course. This academic grammar course introduces further grammatical aspects to develop and maintain your academic style in both writing and speaking contexts. All levels are welcome, and content is additional to topics covered in previous academic grammar courses.
Weekly classes on Wednesdays 10:00am-12:00pm
19 February - 12 March 2025
Registration opens in January!
Academic Reading Skills
Reading is something you will do regularly during your studies. This course will support you in becoming an effective reader and help you achieve success at university. It will cover many skills relevant to reading academically such as selecting appropriate texts; different reading strategies; annotation and note-taking; and critical reading. The course will also help you boost your confidence in reading academic texts in English.
Weekly classes on Thursdays 3:00pm-5:00pm
20 February - 13 March 2025
Registration opens in January!
Pronunciation: English sounds and Intonation
English pronunciation can be challenging, especially if English sounds are different from those of your native language. This pronunciation course aims to raise your awareness of English sounds and speech, improving your comprehension and helping you speak more confidently.
Weekly classes on Wednesdays 2:30pm-4:30pm
19 February - 12 March 2025
Registration opens in January!
Presentation Skills
What are key presentation skills? How can you gain confidence to present in English? What common mistakes should be avoided when presenting? Join this new Presentation Skills course to discuss and find out the answers. Refine your presenting style and gain confidence by practising in small groups each week, picking up top tips along the way!
Weekly classes on Fridays 2:00pm-4:00pm
21 February - 14 March 2025
Registration opens in January!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many courses can I do each term?
No more than two courses each term. You can always sign up for more courses in the next term.
Are there exams at the end of the course?
No
Do I get a certificate at the end of the course?
We don’t normally give certificates but if you ask for one, we will issue a certificate for you.
Do I need to do homework?
No, but sometimes your tutor will ask you to read/write something before/after the lesson. This is designed to help you improve your English and practise the skills covered in the course.
How many students are there in each group?
Numbers vary a lot but usually there are 10 to 20 students per group.
Do I have to attend every lesson?
It would be good if you could. You may even win a prize for good attendance!
What do I do if I can’t attend a lesson?
It would be good if you could let your tutor or the office know about this in advance.
What happens if I miss the first two classes?
Your tutor will email you to check if you are OK and still interested in attending the rest of the course.
Important Information
Absence Notification
We expect students to notify us in advance and in writing if they think they will be absent from a lesson. If you think you will be absent from class, please email internationalcollege@lincoln.ac.uk
In your email, you should provide:
- Full name
- Student ID
- Name of the course
- Date and time of the lesson you are unable to attend
An authorised absence will only be granted if the email is received before the class starts. Students can request a maximum of two authorised absences per course.
If you are absent for two consecutive lessons without prior notice, we will assume you no longer want to attend and your place will be cancelled and where possible, offered to another student.
Online Class Etiquette
Whilst most classes and workshops are face-to-face, the International College tutors will deliver some online sessions throughout the year. As such, please see some rules listed below that are to be observed to ensure everybody joining has the best experience possible:
- Attend classes on time.
- Be presentable by wearing appropriate clothing.
- Test all technology (including camera/video, Wi-fi and sound) before class starts.
- Read any instructions issued and be prepared.
- The tutors would like to see your face as this makes it easier for them to check your understanding – tell the tutor before the session starts if your camera is not working.
- Mute your microphone if you are not speaking.
- Do not interrupt other people when they are speaking (or attempt to speak over them).
- Do not work on other tasks while the lesson is taking place.
- Turn off all notifications and make sure your mobile phone is on silent.
- Try not to leave the lesson before it finishes.
Course Cancellation
Please note there must be a minimum number of student registrations for each class in order for us to run these courses. If there are not enough students registered, courses may be cancelled. Students who have registered will be informed if the course is not running.
Lesson Cancellation
We aim to notify all students at least 24 hours in advance if a class has to be cancelled. However, in exceptional circumstances, this might not be possible.
Processing Time for Queries
We are expecting large numbers of requests and will respond to your email as soon as possible. We aim to respond to all requests within 2 working days, however during busy periods it may be longer.
Contact or Follow Us on Social Media
University of Lincoln
Brayford Pool Campus
Lincoln
LN6 7TS