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About the Ohio Program of Intensive English

About OPIE

OPIE is the Ohio Program of Intensive English, located on the campus of Ohio University in Athens, Ohio.

The Ohio Program of Intensive English began offering classes in 1967 and is one of the leading English language programs in the United States. OPIE is the oldest university English language program in Ohio.

Students come from all over the world to improve their English, prepare for academic study, and learn U.S. culture. OPIE classes are small and teachers pay special attention to student needs. Participation and the practical use of spoken and written English are emphasized.

OPIE’s primary purpose is to help you learn English and prepare you to live and study in the USA. In OPIE you will gain confidence in using American English and have a deeper understanding of American culture. OPIE instructors are experienced and qualified language teachers who have studied other languages and have lived outside the USA. OPIE consists of full-time and part-time levels of intensive English. Our University Success (U.S.) Pathway Program offers undergraduate students the opportunity to take part-time English classes while starting to earn credit toward a degree at Ohio University.

OPIE is frequently asked by the U.S. government to provide special programs in International Training and Development for Fulbright scholars, students, and English teachers.

In addition to classes, OPIE offers opportunities to:

  • Meet with a conversation partner or attend a weekly conversation hour.
  • Practice your reading rate and comprehension in our reading lab.
  • Attend cultural and social events on campus and in the community.

Classes meet Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, with Wednesday reserved for individual lab work, teacher conferences, and special projects or activities. Please note: OPIE’s summer term is 12 weeks (instead of 14); due to the shortened time period, OPIE classes are held daily and lab and socio-cultural offerings may be more limited than in Fall and Spring terms.

About Athens, Ohio

Ohio University is located in the beautiful, safe city of Athens. State Parks are just a short drive from the city.

Athens enjoys four seasons. In each season, students can participate in a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, boating, and skiing.

Major cities close to Athens are Columbus, Cincinnati, Cleveland, and Pittsburgh. OPIE will arrange to meet you at the airport and drive you to campus. You will need to fly to the airport in Columbus, Ohio