English has been spoken by millions of people all over the world as as the first language, second language, foreign language, and so on. Thus, English is considered as an international language. The use of English, hence, signifies a new way of communication across different groups of people and their cultures. In Thailand, the English language has always played a significant role as a core subject in all levels of education as well as a second choice (after Thai) of medium of communication in all sectors such as business, industry, mass media, tourism, and foreign affairs. So far, English as an international language is a challenging area for researchers and practitioners to explore in a scientific and systematic way for a better understanding of its evolution, its status, and its future.
The English as an International Language (EIL) Program was established in 2001 and was designed as an interdisciplinary and international program. The objectives of the program are to develop first-rate scholars of English as an International Language serving all different sectors. Students are expected to develop a strong specialization in English linguistics, instruction, or assessment and evaluation, or a combination of these. Students are also expected to master English to gain knowledge and access to information and state-of-the-art technology in the international community for academic and professional development.
The EIL Program has produced 73 Ph.D. holders and 113 Master's degree graduates. They play significant roles and hold various responsibilities in several organizations and agencies, for example, as instructors of English at both public and private institutes, language trainers at international organizations, and program managers at private agencies. In brief, the EIL Program has always committed itself to excel in producing first-rate scholars who are equipped with research, academic, and professional minds.
