Vision
To be a distinguished academic entity in English language teaching at Umm Al-Qura University.
Overview
The English Language Institute (ELI) offers general and specialized courses for male and female students at Umm Al-Qura University. These courses are designed to develop language learning and communication skills for academic, everyday life, and professional contexts, including medical, technical, administrative, scientific, and economic fields. Additionally, the Institute provides diverse training programs encompassing academic writing, language skills, presentation and public speaking, and English learning strategies. The ELI also actively contributes to the professional development of faculty members through intensive programs aimed at boosting their linguistic proficiency and preparing them for overseas scholarship missions; this includes IELTS preparation, academic research methodology, corresponding with academic supervisors, and drafting academic CVs. Committed to cultivating a stimulating, collaborative, and professional learning environment, the Institute maintains direct engagement with students to address their academic needs. Notably, the ELI has earned membership in the Oxford Quality Programme from Oxford University Press.
Establishment:
The English Language Center was established in 1402 AH as an affiliate of the College of Social Sciences. It began its journey with modest resources and a small teaching staff, initially focusing on preparing the university’s teaching assistants and lecturers designated for scholarship missions. Over the years, its academic services expanded significantly to support students across various colleges and departments, including Islamic Architecture, Engineering, Medical and Applied Sciences, and Basic Sciences.
The Center witnessed remarkable programmatic growth, offering diverse courses to university affiliates, government agencies, and various community sectors, alongside intensive and preparatory courses for newly admitted students. Furthermore, it contributed to teaching English courses for diploma programs in collaboration with the College of Community Service and Continuing Education.
With the establishment of health colleges, the College of Pharmacy, and the College of Applied Medical Sciences, enrollment numbers surged, which further consolidated the Center's academic and supervisory role. This expansion catalyzed the diversification of its programs and broadened its scope of impact, positioning the Center as a cornerstone for supporting the educational process and enhancing English language proficiency both within the university and the wider community.
Objectives
1. To offer English language courses based on clearly defined learning outcomes.
2. To support the teaching staff through professional development programs that enhance instructional quality.
3. To develop and promote research in English language teaching, learning, and assessment.
4. To establish and strengthen local and international partnerships that support education, professional development, and research.
5. To contribute to community service and support the knowledge economy through educational and applied initiatives.
Mission
To achieve excellence in English language teaching and learning through high-quality programs that develop learners’ language competencies, and contribute to supporting research, community service, and the knowledge economy.