EMI: A Catalyst for Internationalization and the Evolution of Teaching Practices
As part of its internationalization strategy, the University of Montpellier offers training programs inEnglish as a Medium of Instruction (EMI)for Professors. This initiative aims to support the development of courses taught in English across various disciplines, while enhancing the quality of instruction.
Beyond English language skills, EMI training programs help educators rethink course structure, clarify instructions, and improve interaction with students in a multilingual and/or multicultural context. They thus provide teachers with an opportunity for reflection and professional development, while enhancing the appeal of our programs to both local and international students.
Since 2024, the University of Montpellier has organized several EMI sessions that have brought together faculty members from all disciplines. These training sessions have made it possible to introduce bilingual courses in various departments and to incorporate new teaching practices that promote inclusion and the active participation of international students.
The next English as a Medium of Instruction (EMI) session will take place from June 9 to 12, 2026. Practical information is available online on the UM intranet.
Testimonials
The EMI training was a very enriching experience. Both educational and personal, it helped me better understand learners’ expectations. The multicultural approach we were introduced to helps raise awareness of the needs of those involved. It also provides us with ideas for energizing and fostering group cohesion within our learning environments. The English communication techniques are innovative and constructive. Finally, speaking English all week helps improve our fluency.
Audrey De Ceglie, School of Pharmacy
The EMI training course I took in June 2025 provided me with very interesting theoretical insights into teaching a subject in a foreign language, as well as numerous examples and practical scenarios. Not only was I able to practice English regularly, but I also gained an understanding of the challenges and difficulties involved in this type of teaching. I would like to thank the instructors for their dedication and for the relevance of the materials and content. I highly recommend this training program.
Aurélie Guélen, part-time employee at FDE Perpignan
Hello, I signed up for the EMI workshop as a personal challenge. Since I’m not very comfortable with the English language, I was curious to see what this experience would bring me after a week-long workshop (in early June 2025). In reality, it was much more than just learning: it was a total immersion, punctuated by the creation and implementation of a lesson to cap off these five intensive days! An enthusiastic and supportive team guided our group through many varied and dynamic activities that we can apply to our classroom practices. Finding the time for training, meetings, and exchanges with colleagues from other disciplines and other institutions seems difficult amid the hectic pace of the school year… but it is possible! It’s a real opportunity to benefit from high-quality training offered by the university! A big THANK YOU to the entire team of trainers!
Isabelle Rizzo, professor of literature at the FDE, and professor of Expression, Culture, and Communication at the IUT, TC
