The Program for American Language Studies (PALS)
The Program for American Language Studies is an intensive English program within The King’s College. This English as a Second Language (ESL) program is designed to equip students with the English proficiency necessary to enter and succeed in the academic classroom. The curriculum is designed primarily for low intermediate level students and above (institutional TOEFL, 400-550; computer-based TOEFL, 97-213).

The curriculum of PALS-ESL is designed to maximize a student’s language acquisition while incorporating thematic units from essential college subjects—e.g., psychology, business, and literature. The program offers instruction in:

American Culture

Composition and Vocabulary

Speaking and Listening

Reading and Syntax

Academics and Worldview

Academic Enrichment
Specifically, students will experience a task-based curriculum that is both student-centered and individualized, based on the student’s learning style and linguistic background. Learning objectives are designed with the student in mind, and instruction tailored to the individual meets the needs and interests of our students.

Overall, the PALS-ESL program seeks to offer instruction to a variety of students: those seeking to matriculate into The King’s College; those looking for a study-abroad experience; and those working to develop a Christian worldview and mission-orientation. Additionally, The King’s College provides a constant balance between the real language issues of the street and the necessary preparation for the college classroom—i.e., communications and academics.

As students’ overall proficiency increases, King’s endeavors to transition students into the college mainstream. An essential advising role is played by PALS-ESL faculty whereby students at the upper levels of the program are guided into one or two academic classes, alongside their PALS courses. The PALS faculty work closely with students to make this transition effective and rewarding for the student. Student mainstream academic success is our highest achievement.

The faculty of PALS-ESL are the heart of our program. Their professionalism and experience are of the highest caliber, and they are constantly working to guide students through the learning process and the realities of academia. Teaching is viewed as a vocation, not a job. Students receive the highest quality instruction and advisement from our faculty, making their college experience an unforgettable and rewarding one.

Beyond the classroom, students are encouraged to participate in a variety of extra-curricular activities. Conversation Partners are provided for students, to help them develop their conversational skills, both for fluency and comfort. Students participate in teams comprised of matriculated King's students. This is a distinctive feature of our program, which differentiates us from most ESL programs in the U.S. Student teams and activities are an integral part of the educational experience, and participation is strongly encouraged. Indeed, once a week students are taken outside to experience the language of the locale: New York City. From Broadway to Wall Street to Central Park, students experience the restless energy of this cosmopolitan capital. And, language is constantly a part of that experience. Believing that language learning takes place 24/7, we encourage students to move seamlessly from classroom to city streets, using English as their chief medium of communication.

Computer-assisted learning is also available. PALS-ESL provides college advisement for all students, including information on college enrollment, financial aid, and college life in the United States.

Studying in the PALS-ESL program equips students with the language and cultural skills necessary for success in both academic and cross-cultural communications environments, through a variety of fun yet challenging activities and courses of study. ESL students are also encouraged to take advantage of the numerous opportunities available to them for personal enrichment, such as Bible studies, friendships with full-time students at The King’s College, and the many cultural treasures of New York City. In short, the PALS-ESL program at The King’s College offers a remarkable opportunity for study and personal growth that transforms and enriches the lives of its students with excitement, joy, and a great sense of accomplishment.