Curriculum Overview



English for International Communication (Duration: 4 - 48 weeks)

The courses at each level are thematically structured and based upon units of work in a core text with a New Zealand focus where possible. CIBT students are encouraged to be creative and to fully express themselves by emphasising meaningful communication and social interaction while respecting the individual student. The program includes detailed assessment at each level and classes include option classes.

English for IELTS and TOEFL (Duration: 4 - 48 weeks)

IELTS and TOEFL exams are widely recognized as a language requirement for further study. The English for IELTS course at the Cornell Institute of Business and Technology (CIBT) is aimed at adult learners who wish to improve their competency in English to eligible for further tertiary study. On enrolment, students will be tested and placed in a suitable class which suits their academic abilities.

English for Tertiary Entrance (EAP)(Duration: 12-48 weeks)

This course prepares students for future study at a tertiary institution in New Zealand or Australia. Areas such as study skills, critical thinking, self assessment and time management are features of the course. Debate, discussion, self-reflection and assessment through tutorials will be a key part of the course. Entry to the course requires an equivalent IELTS score of 5.5 and on successful completion of the course the students will have achieved an equivalent of IELTS 6.5. With a strong academic focus, the course is an ideal introduction to university study.

English and Activities

(Groups only)A great way of learning English while experiencing the great New Zealand outdoors is to combine study with extracurricular activities. CIBT designs and offers courses to meet your group's requirements. English study in the mornings is supplemented by afternoon activities such as golf, soccer, volleyball, basketball, bushwalking, beach visits, fishing, farm visits, snorkeling, scuba diving courses and many others. More detailed information about these courses is available from CIBT staff or upon request.

Cornell Certificate In Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)(Duration: 8 weeks)

This is an intensive course designed for teacher trainees new to the teaching of English to Speakers of Other Languages, and for practicing teachers who wish to move into English Language teaching. It is an initial qualification, which will equip the trainee with the basic skills and knowledge needed to work as an ESOL teacher.

It aims to develop the trainee's understanding of the theory and practice of teaching English as a Second Language in a variety of contexts, and contains a range of theoretical topics, as well as providing trainees with an opportunity to take a number of classes under close supervision.
Entry to the course requires applicants to be aged 20 years or over, and to demonstrate an English ability equivalent to IELTS 5.5 or above.