Arizona State University, American Language and Culture Program

The American English and Culture Program (AECP) has been offering specially designed intensive English language instruction since 1974. The AECP faculty and staff are prepared to help you improve your English language skills and learn about culture and society in the United States. In addition to classes, there will be field trips to exciting places in Arizona and a variety of activities to give you an opportunity to become familiar with ASU and the American way of life.

Tempe, Arizona's fifth largest city, has successfully blended the dynamics of a high-tech business center, the fun and excitement of a resort, the warmth and comfort of a residential neighborhood, and the "small town" atmosphere of a college community, to make it the progressive city that Tempe is.

All of the AECP teachers have graduate degrees in Teaching English as a Second Language or a related field. They also have years of classroom experience in the United States and abroad. The AECP curriculum is divided into six levels, from basic to advanced. Basic students have little or no knowledge of English. Advanced students are usually ready for university courses taught in English. Students completing the Advanced 1 and 2 levels and the Business Program receive certificates. Students at any other level can also request a certificate.

Homestay AECP homestays are provided through OvECS Ltd., a company specializing in finding host families for international students. Each family is carefully screened and selected. Families vary; some families are single parents with children and some are older couples with no children. Students receive breakfast and dinner daily and have their own bedrooms. Transportation to school and home must be arranged by the student. Some students take the bus, ride bicycles or ride with host family members, if possible. A local OvECS area coordinator will assist you in your homestay experience throughout your stay. Arranged Housing Arranged housing (through an apartment company working with AECP) offers AECP students the opportunity to live in an apartment without having to worry about finding roommates, buying furniture or paying start-up costs for utilities. All apartments have two bedrooms. Students may apply for a private room or a shared room in a shared apartment. All apartment communities have swimming pools and coin-operated laundry facilities. They are located within biking distance of the campus. Adelphi Commons Campus Dormitory This is a new dormitory located close to campus. It is open to male and female students during the academic year (Aug. - May) and the summer cycle.

Each cycle, AECP hosts field trips so students may see the beauty and diversity of the state Arizona. Some of the field trip destinations include visiting the Grand Canyon or Old Tuscon, hiking in Sedona's Red Rock country, having a Canyon Lake steamboat cruise and picnic, cross-country skiing in Flagstaff, horseback riding, and river rafting.