PLUS Program

Preparation in Language and University Studies (PLUS) is a full time academic-preparation program that combines language instruction and educational support with enrollment in university graduate or undergraduate course work leading to a degree or certificate.

PLUS students start their academic programs at Golden Gate University with TOEFL scores of 500 (173 CBT, 61 iBT) for graduate programs and 475 (153 CBT, 53 iBT) for undergraduate programs. PLUS participants are admitted provisionally and concurrently enroll in PLUS and university classes based on official evaluations by the Admissions Office. In their PLUS classes, students learn how to give in-class presentations, work in groups, participate in discussions, research and write university-quality papers, analyze case studies, and more.

The Classes

Golden Gate University offers a unique educational opportunity to individuals interested in pursuing professions in business and technology, psychology and taxation. Because GGU classes are delivered to working professionals and are taught by experts in the various fields of finance, digital security, marketing, management, networked systems (to name just a few), the classroom environment is dynamic and fast-paced. Presenting, discussing, participating, analyzing, and doing responsible research are essential student skills at GGU.

In PLUS classes, students gain valuable knowledge and practice in the academic skills needed to be successful in GGU classes. Students spend 15 hours per week in PLUS classes, in addition to GGU course work. PLUS classes include these topics:

• The Culture of the US Classroom: A core course that offers insight into dealing with course requirements, time management, values and norms in US classrooms, and more. Individual consultations about coursework make up a component of this class.
• Case Study Methods: This class builds skills in the art and science of reading and analyzing cases. Students learn to analyze cases logically, propose alternative solutions, defend their positions, discuss in class and write up their results.
• Applied Critical Thinking: This intensive PLUS course focuses on clear presentation of ideas in written form, and on doing university-level research.
• Academic Communication Skills: This class provides for individual and group practice in presentation skills and in how language is used in academic settings.
• Directed Study: This custom course allows non-PLUS-admitted students to receive instruction in a number of PLUS learning objectives and also serves as a second-trimester option for students who require further PLUS coursework.