University admissions program-specific prerequisites. Why do they exist? This is a question I think most of us have asked ourselves before. They’re a pain, let’s set that straight! We all know they exist, and despite our strong feelings towards them, I think we know why they exist. Program-specific prerequisites are set to ensure each student has the same baseline of knowledge despite the school they went to, or the city they lived in.
But should grade 12 University level English be a requirement for entry into all university programs?
In Ontario, high school students are required to take English all four years. But should all university programs require University level grade 12 English for entry? *French programs may require grade 12 University level English or the French equivalent.*
Every university in Ontario requires the ENG4U course, or equivalent, for admission to any program. A Bachelor of Science in Nursing or a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology, both very different programs and both requiring grade 12 University level English as a prerequisite.
Should they both require a grade 12 University level English as a prerequisite? In my opinion, yes; they should both require an English course, as should all university programs. When thinking about a university program, resulting in a degree, there is a certain ‘level of intelligence’ that is perceived. People with university degrees are fairly intelligent, how else would they have made it through a multi-year subject based program? I believe that English class generates skills and knowledge that is related to ‘this level of intelligence’. I think of English class as discussions, reflections, writing, reading and simply the ability to communicate. Whether it be a Science program or an Arts program, they all need the ability to communicate.
Anyone who has ever taken an English class will know that it isn’t just writing essays and reading books. You learn vital life skills, skills needed in order to succeed. You learn how to effectively format your thoughts;be it in an essay or verbally, you learn how to analyze a text, properly structure essays/document and so many more skills that you will apply later in life. English class teaches you how to make connections and how to write/speak formally and informally. All of these skills are crucial and help tremendously in any post-secondary program.
I’m sure many people think don’t enjoy English class and see it as a hassle, and I just may have to agree with them sometimes, however the skills obtained and the life lessons learned will be tremendously beneficial for anyone no matter the path they end up.
Elle's Tells 