The primary objective of this English foundations course is to introduce the Spanish-speaking student to American English in the university context through spontaneous and directed oral, writing, and reading exercises. The course also guides the Spanish-speaking student through the acculturation process into typical American culture and academic life at the University. The course includes an emphasis on cross-cultural communication skills, beginning reading and writing exercises, grammar-based themes, public speaking, and other skills necessary to initiate a successful academic career.
BSCA 150 is the first course taken by a student entering the BUSCA program. It is a unique course for several reasons. First, it is a 12-credit course. Second, the classes for this one course are spread out over four weeknights. Third, there are four components to this course (Grammar, Composition, Conversation, and University Studies) and several instructors. Fourth, the student's final grade in all four components will be averaged together to form one final grade. Finally, BSCA 150 is unique because each student must earn a final grade of "C" or higher in order to continue in the BUSCA program. In other words, BSCA 150 is a prerequisite for all other courses in BUSCA.

This course serves as the final English for Academic Purposes course in the BUSCA program. It is intended to guide fourth-semester BUSCA students in their understanding of undergraduate university requirements and expectations and to refine the students' proficiency with the English language. Special emphasis is placed on continuing to develop the students' English language communication skills, persuasive writing, oral argumentation, critical reading, and facility with conducting academic research. The BSCA 250 students sharpen their skills through the analysis of provocative contemporary issues and through authentic language practice, such as debates, interviews, role plays, oral reports, presentations, essays, and a research paper.
Students must earn a 'C' or higher in BSCA 250 to earn an Associate Degree and continue their studies in a bachelor's degree program at La Salle.