Carnegie Mellon University
AEAP Program

Advanced English for Academic Purposes

Advanced English for Academic Purposes (AEAP) 

The Advanced English for Academic Purposes (AEAP) program at Carnegie Mellon University is designed to meet the unique communication needs of graduate students who are non-native speakers of English. AEAP is a joint initiative by the Department of Languages, Cultures & Applied Linguistics and the Department of English.

This intensive four-week program focuses on developing advanced written, oral and visual communication skills in a supportive, immersive academic environment. Tailored for students preparing to enter CMU graduate programs, AEAP equips participants with the tools they need to thrive in their academic pursuits and professional fields.

PROGRAM DATES FOR 2025: JULY 14–AUGUST 8

The deadline to apply for summer 2025 is April 15, 2025.

 

Program Highlights

  • In-Person Instruction: Courses, workshops and group meetings designed to enhance academic communication skills
  • Comprehensive Curriculum: Focus on academic English vocabulary, language use in academic and social contexts, and conventions of ethical source and AI use 
  • Immersive Experiences: Intensive practice emulating the communication demands of graduate school and professional life
  • Community Integration: Social and cultural events to foster a sense of belonging and introduce students to the vibrant CMU community

Why AEAP?

International and multilingual students often face challenges that go beyond standardized test preparation. Tasks such as participating in discussions, understanding US academic conventions and mastering ethical academic practices require nuanced communication skills that standardized tests can’t measure.

AEAP bridges this gap, providing targeted instruction to:

  • Improve language proficiency in academic contexts
  • Build cultural competence for effective integration
  • Foster confidence in communication with peers and faculty

Program Structure

Weekly Commitment: 20-25 Hours
The AEAP program combines rigorous coursework with engaging workshops and cultural activities:

  1. Courses
    • Written Communication: Develop advanced academic writing skills.
    • Oral and Visual Communication: Practice effective speaking and presenting, with integrated pragmatics and lexicon instruction.
  2. Specialized Workshops
    • Topics relevant to graduate students such as academic and scholarly culture, library and research skills, and language and identity.
  3. Group Meetings
    • Small groups focus on language in context and presentation skills.
  4. Social and Cultural Experiences
    • Events such as campus treasure hunts, trivia nights, cooking potlucks and visits to iconic Pittsburgh locations like the Carnegie museums and Phipps Conservatory.

Learn more about the program curriculum.

Tuition and Funding

Tuition for the AEAP program is $6,000, which covers all courses, weekly social/cultural events, program opening and closing ceremony meals, and materials. Partial scholarships may be available for qualified applicants. Contact Dr. Keely Austin for more information.

Billing questions? Visit our Payment page for more information.

Request More Information

The AEAP program underscores CMU’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, fostering an environment where all students can succeed. By enhancing language skills and cultural integration, AEAP empowers multilingual graduate students to achieve their full potential—academically, socially and professionally.

For more information, contact Dr. Keely Austin, Visiting Lecturer, Departments of Languages, Cultures & Applied Linguistics and English.