Curriculum Philosophy
- The General English courses are part of the “Fundamental General Education” curriculum at National Chung Cheng University (CCU) and are required for all first-year students. Each student must complete one course from both the Practical and Applied categories. In principle, one course is taken per semester, with both courses completed over two semesters. Students should refer to their department’s graduation requirements based on their year of admission.
- As General English is designated a core competency course for first-year students, all freshmen are guaranteed enrollment. However, those who voluntarily drop the course or fail and need to retake it may only enroll after all first-year students have been placed.
- General education not only develops foundational academic skills but also cultivates essential learning attitudes. The General English courses emphasize consistent learning, a globally oriented communication mindset, and the development of teamwork skills.
Key Features of the General English Courses
- Leveled Instruction: Courses are organized into three proficiency levels—Pre-Intermediate, Intermediate, and Integrated Skills—based on students’ English abilities. Pre-Intermediate courses use CEFR A2–B1 materials, while Intermediate and Integrated Skills courses use CEFR B1–B2 materials, ensuring clear differentiation in content and learning outcomes.
- Course Categories: Courses are categorized into Practical and Applied types, and each is designed to enhance students’ global communication skills and cultural awareness. While the two categories differ in content and focus, both are aligned with global trends and support international mobility.
- Course Features: Course materials emphasize clear and accessible content related to global communication. Instruction focuses on improving students’ English output abilities—particularly speaking and writing—to equip students with the foundational English communication skills needed for international activities such as volunteering or exchange programs.
Practical English Courses
| Course Leveling | Practical English Usage (Pre-intermediate Level) Practical English Usage (Intermediate Level) Practical English (Integrated Skills) – Planned for Academic Year 2020 |
| Course Features | Courses are designed around real-life English usage scenarios and diverse learning tasks, aiming to strengthen the four core language skills—listening, speaking, reading, and writing—along with grammar and vocabulary. Emphasis is placed on the integrated development and practical application of language skills and life competencies. |
| Course Content | Focuses on theme-based learning. Each unit introduces practical sentence patterns and vocabulary for specific topics or communication purposes, while enhancing integrated language skills across all areas of English learning. |
Applied English Courses
| Course Leveling | English Communication Skills (Pre-intermediate Level) English Communication Skills (Intermediate Level) English Communication Skills (Integrated Skills) – New in 2nd Semester, Academic Year 2019 |
| Course Features | Framed within the context of international business communication, the courses are designed to reinforce essential sentence structures and business vocabulary. They also provide comprehensive practice in all four language skills, enabling students to apply their English effectively in global and professional settings. |
| Course Content | The courses are designed to develop English proficiency for workplace and international communication through authentic reading materials, situational dialogues, and integrated four-skill training. Mock test practice is also included to strengthen exam strategies and test-taking skills. |
Important Notes
- General English courses are a required component of the university’s general education and focus on developing core English skills. As English for General Purposes (EGP) courses, they go beyond traditional listening and reading, emphasizing output through speaking and writing practice to strengthen students’ English proficiency and confidence.
- General English courses at CCU are required (one Practical and one Applied course across three levels, totaling 4 credits). Students aiming to further improve their English may apply for the Applied Language Studies Certificate Program after completing or waiving the 4 credits and submitting an external proficiency certificate. The program enhances academic and professional English skills.
- General English is a 4-credit required course for undergraduate students. Students who meet the exemption criteria prior to enrollment—based on English proficiency test scores and application timing—may be eligible for a 4-credit or 2-credit exemption. Applications must be submitted by one week before the add/drop deadline in the first or second semester, in accordance with the Academic Affairs Office’s announcements.
- The Applied Language Studies Certificate Program offers courses across three proficiency levels: Intermediate (B1–B2), Upper-Intermediate (B2–C1), and Advanced (C1–C2). The courses are clearly categorized into three types based on their objectives: English for General Purposes (EGP), English for Academic Purposes (EAP), and English for Specific Purposes (ESP). Upon admission to the program, students are advised to follow these course selection guidelines:
- Those planning to study abroad, participate in exchange programs, or apply for graduate programs taught in English are encouraged to take more academic English (EAP) courses.
- Those aiming to enhance English proficiency for business, management, or workplace communication are recommended to take more professional English (ESP) courses.