By Maegan Murray, WSU Tri-Cities
RICHLAND, Wash. – Washington State University Tri-Cities is partnering with Canada-based VanWest College to develop a nationally accredited English language learning program that will benefit international students and the local community.
A memorandum of understanding was signed this month and the program is anticipated to be in place by 2017.
Interest from international students in WSU Tri-Cities is at an all-time high due to the university’s hands-on approach toward student success and the campus’ unique proximity to the scientific community in the Tri-Cities research district, said Chris Meiers, vice chancellor of enrollment management and student services.
“We believe this will provide our students with the necessary language skills to thrive on this campus and on to their future careers,” he said.
“In today’s globally connected, technology driven world, communication is a crucial skill for all students as they venture into their future careers, regardless of major,” said WSU Tri-Cities Chancellor Keith Moo-Young. “Globalization is a key strategy for our campus and our community.”
VanWest College is an English language training institution with campuses in Vancouver and Kelowna, B.C. The partnership grew out of mutual desires to grow the international population at WSU Tri-Cities and for VanWest to expand into the United States, Meiers said.
“We partnered with VanWest College to provide the opportunity for international students to learn and refine their English in the Tri-Cities,” he said. “In turn, more international students will want to attend WSU Tri-Cities to receive the world-class education that the university and Van West College provide.”
WSU Tri-Cities is one of four campuses in the WSU system. Supporting more than 1,590 students, the campus strives to offer opportunities for dynamic student engagement, dynamic research experiences and dynamic community engagement.
Contacts:
Maegan Murray, WSU Tri-Cities public relations specialist, 509-372-7333, maegan.murray@tricity.wsu.edu
