English in a higher education is helpful to the students because expands their possibilities to communication and academic, professional and scientific performance. The purpose of this study was to analyse the efficiency of English for Specific Purpose course (reading). In order to fulfill this purpose, a Pre-test, a Mid-test and a Post-test were taken. The 28 volunteers were chosen at random from students in the first grade of Psychology course: 14 studying in the morning and 14 in the evening. They were evaluated on four aspects: vocabulary, sentences in English and summary in English and Portuguese. The performance of students who study in the morning was better, but the students who study in the evening learnt more specific words in Psychology than the students in the morning. Analysis of the data, using statistical methods, permitted the following conclusions: it is necessary to design another ESP course, including not only reading but also writing skills. Actions should be taken to improve the students’ vocabulary.
English learning; Reading, writing
