English Language Academy (ELA) Program Options
The English Language Academy (ELA) at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM) is here to help you build confidence and reach your academic and personal goals.
We offer academic English courses designed to support multilingual students pursuing their degree at UWM. Looking for something shorter? Our summer program combines interactive English classes with hands-on workshops and local site visits – perfect for experiential learners who want to connect with the UWM community.
Which program is right for you?
English for Academic Purposes (EAP)
Gain confidence. Succeed at UWM.
Our academic English courses are open to all multilingual students who want to build confidence and strengthen their English skills at the same time.
- International students admitted to UWM
- Domestic students whose first language is not English
Some international students may be required to take EAP courses, depending on their admission type.
All EAP courses are credit-bearing and count toward your UWM degree.
These courses help you develop the academic English skills you need to succeed in college:
- use academic vocabulary
- read and analyze a variety of complex texts
- write well-organized and well-developed essays
- integrate outside texts appropriately
- give engaging presentations with confidence
Are our academic English courses right for you?
Discover how these academic English courses can support your success at UWM.
Summer Language and Culture PLUS Program
Improve your English. Experience American culture.
Join the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s two-week, non-credit Summer Language and Culture PLUS program. Designed for international participants, this program helps you:
- Build confidence in English
- Learn through hands-on, immersive cultural experiences
- Choose your focus from four content areas: STEM, Business, Digital Design & Fabrication/Art, or U.S. Culture
Why UWM?
- The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee is a top-tier R1 research university in the heart of Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
- Participants will not only improve their English proficiency but also experience life in the American Midwest.
- Milwaukee is a diverse, mid-sized city on the shores of Lake Michigan, just 90 miles north of Chicago.
- Known for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and scenic lakefront, the city provides the perfect environment for language and cultural learning.
About Us
The English Language Academy (ELA) is proud to be part of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM) — a vibrant, internationally diverse campus community.
Situated on the urban East Side of Milwaukee, the campus overlooks Lake Michigan and is just 1.5 hours from Chicago. Students enjoy easy access to restaurants, shops, parks, museums, theaters, and the zoo — plus world-class events like the world’s largest music festival and a variety of lakefront ethnic festivals.
ELA students are encouraged to take full advantage of campus life, including recreational sports, free admission to university sporting events, interest clubs, and campus events. At UWM, every student is welcomed, supported, and inspired to thrive.
Need to apply to UW-Milwaukee?
International Admissions is your portal to join the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee (UWM) community and earn a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree.