Language Skills: English and French

The ability to communicate both orally and in writing in both English and French are essential skills for students and future health professionals. There is a certain level of proficiency in English language skills (oral, writing and reading) which is needed to be able to succeed in the program and the profession.

Often a mixture of French and English is used in the clinical labs of our affiliated hospitals. For example, in the Procurement internship in second year, students must be able to communicate in French to francophone patients. Also, in the internships in third year, students may have a clinical instructor who is a francophone. Students who have placed below the College level in either French or English must take additional non-credit courses in order to upgrade their language skills before taking any credit courses.

French language skills are essential for all health care professionals. Students who did not complete their secondary studies in Quebec must pass a French language test with the Office de la langue française to become a member of the professional order and to be eligible to work in the province of Quebec as a medical technologist.

There are tutorials available to help students prepare for this French exam through the French Department resource center CLEO. The Academic Skills Centre offers a range of services and resources to help student improve their English language skills.