Undergraduate Pathways Program

Earn College Credit and Learn English (Dual Enrollment)

The Intensive English Center (IEC) is housed within Tennessee State University, a historically black university (HBCU) located in Nashville, TN. TSU is Nashville’s only urban and comprehensive public university, as well as middle Tennessee’s first public Carnegie Doctoral/Research institution.

IEC’s Undergraduate Pathways Program will allow you to take university classes while you learn English. This program is ideal for students who have some proficiency in English and want to start studying towards their degree as soon as possible.

What is the Undergraduate Pathways Program (UPP)?

The UPP is designed for students who intend to learn English and earn college credit towards their degrees at the same time. International students will be able to take English as a Second Language (ESL) classes to improve their language skills and simultaneously enroll at TSU’s academic courses that will count as credit towards their degree. This two-semester program is comprised of 8 ESL courses and 3 academic courses equivalent to 7 credits. Students fully matriculate into their undergraduate programs allowing students to have continued education after successfully completing their language training. Those who have a minimum IELTS 4 score and meet TSU’s undergraduate admission criteria are eligible for this program.

Why IEC?

• Strong faculty: Professors at the IEC have advanced degrees in teaching English and have years of experience.
• High achievement rate: 90% of students successfully complete levels and programs of study.
• Campus experience: The IEC is located at TSU’s main campus, which offers a distinct campus experience for all students.
• Social and cultural activities: The IEC organizes various activities for its students. Also, IEC students have access to TSU campus activities and resources.
• Vibrant city: Nashville is one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S. and is known as Music City USA.

Student Services

The IEC provides a wide range of student services including visa and travel guidance, pre-arrival and ongoing orientation, immigration and academic advising, support with integration in Nashville and the U.S. culture, extra-curricular activities, assistance with admission to TSU undergraduate and graduate programs as well as post-completion support. IEC students are also provided with access to TSU campus services, facilities and events, such as social and recreational activities, basic health services, food and beverage options, etc., typically available to TSU degree-seeking students. Considering the wide range of challenges that international students may potentially face in a foreign culture, IEC Administrators and Faculty have an accommodating approach to identify, address and provide unanticipated areas of student services.

Semester One

• 4 Intermediate level ESL courses
• 1 General Education Core course (UNIV1000 Service to Leadership)

Semester Two

• 4 high-intermediate level ESL courses
• 2 General Education Core courses ( ENGL1010 Freshmen English, MUSC1010 Music Appreciation)