The Freshman Second Language Program (FSL) at Suffolk University leads to a bachelor's degree and provides students with the opportunity to improve their English fluency and proficiency while earning academic credit and preparing for study in a university setting.

The goal of the FSL program is to enable students to think, write and study independently—the skills required for mainstream academic work at Suffolk University.

During the first year of study, FSL students take intensive English courses, complemented by a series of content courses within the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) and the Sawyer Business School (SBS). The English courses are pass/fail courses. Students must maintain a grade of a C- or higher in order to pass. The content courses are graded using the university letter grade system.

In addition, the FSL Program Coordinator works with each student to choose one course per semester in their major program of study. While each class in the FSL Program is offered for credit, the number of credits that may apply toward a degree will depend on the student's chosen major.

For specific questions about the FSL Program, please contact Dr. Elaine Pascale, FSL Program Coordinator at (617) 973-5392, (617) 573-8677, or epascale@suffolk.edu


 

Admissions Requirements

  • An application for undergraduate admission
  • Proof of an advanced level of English proficiency demonstrated by one of the following:
    • A TOEFL score of 500+ (paper), 173+ (computer), 61+ (IBT)
    • A SAT Verbal score of 350+
  • An official high school transcript for grades 9 through 12
  • A letter of recommendation from a high school teacher or counselor
  • (For permanent residents) A photocopy (front and back) of your alien registration card
  • (For visa candidates) A completed declaration of finance and/or proof of ability to pay

For more information and an application for admission, contact the Office of Undergraduate Admission at (617) 573-8460 or admission@suffolk.edu

Classes

ESL Reading/Writing (ENG 098-099)

Utilizing a freshman level English text book and materials from the content courses, these courses furnish students with active reading strategies and the conventions of academic writing which will be applicable to their collegiate course work. Students will develop analytical skills necessary to academic success by producing in-class and take home essays, participating in debates and giving oral presentations. Students will be required to work with a course management program and to utilize technology effectively in their writing. The skills obtained in these courses will allow students to participate comfortably in their mainstream college courses.

American History I (HST 181)

This course provides a survey of American history and includes such topics as Colonial politics and society; Native Americans; the American Revolution; Sectionalism and Slavery; Industrialization; America’s rise to world power; and Race in America.

Empires and Globalization in World History II (HST 150)

This course provides and overview and intergration of major events in world history and their contributions to modern business and globalization. Themes of geography, global issues, and cultural diversity will be emphasized.

Seminar for Freshmen: The End of the World (SF 164)

This course uses materials drawn from several disciplines and is designed to help incoming freshmen develop the skills, habits of inquiry and broadened range of interests necessary to pursue a higher education successfully and independently. This course stresses writing and learning strategies, critical literacy, and academic survival skills, as well as exposure to great works and ideas.

Professional Communications (CJN 177)

This course addresses oral professional communication knowledge and competencies. Students will deliver informative, persuasive, and impromptu presentations. Interpersonal communications will be enhanced as students practice giving and receiving feedback, learn how group dynamics affect team-level communication, and complete and present a team project.

Course Credit Information

The FSL Program is comprised of three courses each semester; each course is a four credit course. Credit distribution depends on the student's major, but typically*:

ENG 098/099: CAS and SBS students receive 8 free elective credits 

SF 164: CAS students receive the SF requirement credits; SBS students receive 4 free elective credits

HST 181: CAS students receive 4 credits for the Humanities and History requirement; SBS students receive 4 credits for the Humanities and Social Science requirement 

HST 150: CAS students receive 4 credits for the Cultural Diversity Group B requirement; SBS students receive 4 credits for the Globalization requirement (in some cases, CAS students also receive another 4 credits for the Humanities and History requirement)

CJN 177: CAS students receive 4 free elective credits; SBS students receive 4 credits for the Speech requirement 

*Certain majors may differ from this formula

Completing the FSL Program

You must pass your FSL program courses in order to begin your second year of study at Suffolk University. If you do not pass your FSL courses, you will be recommended for dismissal from Suffolk University.

Your language proficiency will be measured at the end of the year to determine your correct English placement for your sophomore year. Most students completing the FSL program take English 101 the following fall. If you require additional language assistance, you may take special summer courses at an additional cost, or a remedial English course the following fall.

Costs and Financial Aid

Costs

FSL Program students pay the regular full-time undergraduate tuition for their program. Students in this program are eligible to apply for financial aid.

Financial Aid

To apply for financial aid at Suffolk University you must submit:

  • A Suffolk University application for financial aid
  • A Massachusetts Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

The preferred filling date for fall enrollment is March 1. For more information and a financial aid application, call the Office of Financial Aid at (617) 573-8470.

Please note: if you are studying in the United States with an F-1 Visa, you are not eligible for Federal financial aid, but may apply for institutional aid.

Housing

There is limited on-campus housing available in the University’s dormitories. In addition, Suffolk’s Off-Campus Housing Office maintains lists of area apartments, homestay, and roommate opportunities.

Support Services

The FSL program classes are small and participants receive a great deal of individual attention. In addition, a number of support services are available to help in their academic endeavors, including one-to-one and small group tutoring, study groups, workshops, career exploration and counseling services, and personal counseling and guidance.