Language Learning Pathways
At Glendon, language learning means being in a unique mindset and having the opportunity to sharpen your skills across pathways designed for your abilities.
All our students improve their language skills, build on the second language skills they may have previously acquired and graduate with a language certification they can leverage to gain employment.
So. What does it all mean?
Every student that applies to Glendon goes through a Language Assessment. No need to study for it. The assessment is based on your skill set and will help with placing you in courses that are appropriate based on your capabilities. We want to help you build the right program for you. As long as you have a passion for learning or perfecting a new language, you’ll fit right in.
- NOTE: If the assessment tells us that you have a little bit of catching up to do, you’ll take a certain number of credits in the 1000 Level (beginner) courses, in either French or English, before you can access the 2000 Level (intermediate) courses. The 2000 Level courses are key to unlocking the minimum bilingual certification level required to graduate at Glendon.
The Right Path for You
Based on your language assessment, your academic advisor will assign you to one of three pathways:
FSL (French as a Second Language) Pathway
This option is designed for non-French speakers who want to learn more or improve their French while studying in their discipline of choice.
FRAN Pathway
This is the heavy-duty program, for students who might want to complete their major specifically in either French Studies, BEd (in French) or Translation. This pathway is designed for language ninjas.
ENSL (English as a Second Language) Pathway
This option is designed for non-native English speakers who want to continue to improve their English while studying in their discipline of choice.
For each pathway – FSL, FRAN and ENSL – there are three levels of bilingual certification that can be achieved at Glendon.
- BASE LEVEL Bilingual BA or BSc
This is the level students reach by obtaining 6 credits in their second language throughout the course of their undergrad. You can reach this level either by taking ENSL/FSL 2000+ courses OR by taking courses from your major in your second language.
- MID LEVEL BA or BSc with Bilingual Certificate
This is the intermediate level that requires you to satisfy the Bilingual BA requirements and add 12 credits to it, either by taking ENSL/FSL 2000+ courses OR by taking courses from your major in your second language.
- ADVANCED LEVEL BA or BSc with Bilingual Excellence Certificate
Go the extra mile: take an additional 12 credits (over and above the Bilingual Certificate requirements) in your second language, either by taking ENSL/FSL 2000+ courses OR by taking course from your major in your second language; maintain a B or above in all courses; AND complete a French and English exam successfully at the end of your degree.
In a Class of Its Own
BA or BSc with Trilingual Excellence Certificate (English, French and Spanish) This goes beyond all other levels. Students who graduate with the Trilingual Excellence Certificate are often headed for a career in international relations or within global organizations.