About

Mission

The mission of the Center for English Language and Culture for International Students at Western Michigan University, established in 1975, is to provide instruction in English as a second language for non-native speakers who will use English to study at an American college or university or in their workplaces.

CELCIS accomplishes this mission by offering language instruction
and cultural orientation in:

  • A year-round, intensive English language program.
  • English as a second language support courses for WMU students.
  • Training and consultation to international teaching assistants.

CELCIS has three target areas of service:

  • Service to international students.
  • Service to WMU.
  • Service to the southwestern Michigan community.

Review current University enrollment by geographic region in Institutional Research's Enrollment Map.

Accreditation

The Center for English Language and Culture for International Students (CELCIS), Western Michigan University is accredited by the Commission on English Language Program Accreditation for the period August 2015 through August 2025 and agrees to uphold the CEA Standards for English Language Programs and Institutions.* CEA is recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education as a nationally recognized accrediting agency for English language programs and institutions in the U.S.  For further information about this accreditation, please contact CEA, 801 North Fairfax Street, Suite 402A, Alexandria, VA 22314, (703) 665-3400, www.cea-accredit.org

CELCIS complies with the guidelines and regulations of the following professional organizations: CEA, Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages, University and College Intensive English Programs, American Association of Intensive English Programs, and NAFSA: Association of International Educators.

*CEA accreditation provisions apply to in-person, core instruction. 

CEAEnglish USA: American Association of Intensive English ProgramsUCIEP 1967: University and College Intensive English Programs

Benefits of Studying at CELCIS