Professional Communication Program for International Teachers and Scholars
The Derek Bok Center for Teaching and Learning partners with Harvard Griffin GSAS to administer the English Language Proficiency Requirement and provides support to individuals who need to continue to develop their oral English proficiency to meet the requirement as well as to any international PhD student looking to improve their communication, public speaking, or teaching skills. As you think about your language and communication needs and goals, the Bok Center is the best starting point and can provide direct support as well as referrals to other campus resources.
Start with the Professional Communication for International Scholars Resource site! Designed as a foundational resource for all international PhD students, this site provides an overview of academic culture and communication at Harvard, including English language skills (speaking, listening, writing, and reading) and cross-cultural communication skills. Find resources related to the most common questions we hear from international PhD Students.
The Bok Center will reach out to new students who need to meet the Oral English Language Requirement. If you have questions or are not sure where to start, every international PhD student is encouraged to schedule a consultation with us to discuss your English communication skills and get connected to available resources.