How Long Is A Teaching Degree

If you want to meet the criteria laid out for most online or overseas TEFL jobs, then you will need to complete a standard 120-hour TEFL certification course as a minimum. Anyone who dreams of earning a higher salary or applying for management level positions will typically need an advanced qualification such as diploma. However, teachers who want to get to the very top of the EFL tree will probably need to think about completing a Bachelor's Degree in TESOL. ITTT does not operate its own degree course, but we are able to recommend a good option. The Bachelor of Education in TESOL (B.Ed TESOL) from the Paris College of International Education offers a very convenient and affordable way to gain a high-end, internationally recognized teaching qualification. This is a 120-credit degree...  [Read more]

Demand for ESL teachers is high in all areas of the world and employers typically prefer those who have a TEFL qualification over non-qualified applicants. It is highly recommended that you first complete an internationally accredited TEFL certification before applying for an ESL teaching position. Having some form of teaching experience will also increase your options for employment, though as with a degree, this is not always a requirement. With countries ranging from ancient to very modern, Europe offers a whole range of history, climate, and population density. There are many countries where a degree is not required and these include the ever popular, Spain, Italy and the Czech Republic. If you are looking for something quieter, areas of Greece, Poland, Romania and Bulgaria may be...  [Read more]

It is definitely possible to teach English without a degree. There are plenty of language schools that will gladly hire you regardless of your educational background. Even though having a degree opens more doors and opportunities, there is no reason for not pursuing your dream of teaching English abroad if you don't possess a degree. The question of whether a degree is required to find a teaching job is arbitrary, as it is for many other occupations. There is no reason why a university-educated English teacher would be more effective than one who does not possess a degree. One might argue that certain characteristics, such as passion, commitment, and the ability to establish rapport with your students, are far more important than a college diploma in this career. These qualities should,...  [Read more]

If you don’t possess a university degree, it is still possible to teach English in a foreign country. Regardless of your academic background, there are countless language schools out there that will happily hire you. Even though a degree opens more doors and opportunities, there really is no reason to give up on your dream of teaching English abroad if you do not have one. We at ITTT believe that having a degree is not the most important thing when considering a career in language teaching. Instead, certain qualities, like passion, dedication, and the ability to establish a connection with your students, may be argued to be far more important in this career than a university degree. However, you should still possess the right skills and know-how for leading a successful classroom. This...  [Read more]

As a result of government restrictions and official requirements for visa applications, there are a variety of countries where it is hard for teachers to find a job without having a 4-year university degree on their CV/resume. However, if you are able to be flexible and are willing to look for employment in areas where the demand is high and restrictions are less rigorous, TEFL qualified teachers without a degree can still have several great destinations to choose from. To increase your chances of landing a position in the country of your choice, it is highly recommended that you first complete an internationally accredited TEFL certification course. Those who are TEFL qualified will find they have a big advantage over non-qualified teachers in most countries worldwide. Cambodia is...  [Read more]

The good news is that you do not need a degree to teach English online in many situations. We will expand on this throughout this article. The general qualification required to teach ESL either in person or online is a 120-hour TEFL or TESOL certification. This is seen as the entry level qualification and is usually required by most employers. Other qualities they will be looking for include, in no particular order: (i) Experience: Any formal teaching experience is highly regarded by employers. This may be just a few hours from your TEFL training with real classes, or volunteering at a summer school for example. The more your experience matches the type of teacher they are looking for (such as children or adult teaching) the better. Make sure your C.V or resume indicates all teaching...  [Read more]

With the help of the information we have provided below, you can start teaching English as a foreign language online even if you don’t have a degree. We have looked at why some employers might insist on a degree, how to increase your chances of getting hired, and where to hunt for jobs. Normally, employers require a degree in order to obtain a work visa when hiring someone to teach English abroad. Visas are not a problem, though, when it comes to teaching online - so why do they still want teachers with degrees? One reason can be found in recent reforms made in the largest TEFL market: China. China is the largest TEFL market in the world, and this is also true for the online TEFL sector, where many of the major online teaching platforms are based. Online teaching platforms operating in...  [Read more]

When considering this question it is important to first outline the different types of class levels found in English language classrooms worldwide. A fairly common classification of EFL teaching levels is indicated by the book resources available. If you consider book series such as, Reward, New Headway, and many others, you will find five levels. These levels are, Starter (or Beginner), Elementary, Pre-Intermediate, Intermediate, and Upper-Intermediate. Now we have established the general language levels of students, we can now consider the four skills of English. It is very important to remember that there are four skills that are required by any language user. These four skills are, reading and listening (known as the receptive skills) and writing and speaking (known as the productive...  [Read more]

Teaching English without a degree is, fortunately, possible. Regardless of your educational history, there are plenty of language schools that will be happy to employ you. True, having a degree opens up more doors and opportunities, but if you don't have one, there is no reason to let that stop you from pursuing your dream of teaching English abroad. The question of whether you need a degree to find a teaching position is arbitrary, as it is with many other occupations. There is no reason why an English teacher with a university degree would be more effective than one without. Certain traits (passion, commitment, and the ability to create rapport with your students, for example) are more important than a college diploma in this career, as they are in many others. It is important to note,...  [Read more]

Vietnam is one of several booming destinations for teaching English in Southeast Asia. In recent years the demand for teachers has grown enormously and the salaries on offer have also improved due to increased competition among schools looking to employ the best teachers. Teachers who have spent time in Vietnam overwhelming say it is a great place to live and work, so if you want to find out for yourself, how do you go about it? In order to get a work permit to teach English legally in Vietnam you will need to be a native English speaker with a bachelor’s degree. Many employers will also insist on a TEFL/TESOL certificate of at least 120-hours duration. Some jobs at the top end of the pay scale will also require some level of classroom experience, although these are relatively small in...  [Read more]

Due to government restrictions or work visa requirements, there are several countries where English language teachers without a 4-year university degree might find it difficult to secure employment. However, the good news is there are still plenty of great opportunities for those without a degree if you are flexible and willing to go where the demand for your services is high. To increase your chances of landing a position in the country of your choice, it is highly recommended that you first complete an internationally accredited TEFL/TESOL certification course. Those who are TEFL qualified will find they have a big advantage over non-qualified teachers in most countries worldwide. Although China has the largest market for TEFL qualified teachers in the world, the regulations for...  [Read more]

China is without doubt the largest market for English language teaching in the world. With a population in the region of 1.4 billion people spread across a vast area, there are a huge range of opportunities to suit all tastes. Whether you prefer big city life, the peace of rural living, tropical or seasonal climates, China has it all. However, one big question is often asked by teachers who want to live and work in the country: Until quite recently the answer would have been yes, as schools in China generally don’t care whether their teachers have a degree or not, and this still hasn’t changed. What has changed is the government has tightened the rules on who is eligible for a Z (work) visa which is what every teacher needs to work legally in the country. The simple truth is that you...  [Read more]

As it is a modern, vibrant city where English is a common language and most luxuries and comforts are available, Hong Kong is naturally a popular destination among TEFL qualified teachers. The city is a cultural melting pot where almost every language on Earth can be heard and there is an impressive number of major skyscrapers dominating the skyline, two reasons why it is sometimes referred to as the New York of the East. Due to its popularity, Hong Kong has strong competition for the best teaching jobs, so to have a good chance of landing one there are a few things you need to know. There have been government guidelines for employing foreign teachers in Hong Kong for some time; however, these have not been rigorously enforced until recently. These days it is very difficult, and...  [Read more]

Around the world there are always a huge number of EFL teaching jobs waiting to be filled which means there are potential opportunities for almost everyone. So what qualifications, background or characteristics do you require to take a TEFL course? First and foremost, anyone thinking about earning their TEFL certification with ITTT needs to be enthusiastic, motivated and determined as every course requires a considerable amount of commitment in terms of both time and effort. If you are fully committed to becoming an English language teacher, either at home or abroad, then you should have little trouble successfully completing the course and becoming a qualified EFL teacher. In order to be an effective English language teacher you do need to have a thorough understanding of the...  [Read more]

Securing a TEFL teaching job in a desired market can vary in time depending on several factors. Generally, the process can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. It's important to consider aspects such as your qualifications, experience, desired location, and the time of year you are applying. Firstly, having the necessary qualifications is key to securing a TEFL teaching job. Most schools and language institutions require a TEFL certification, which can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to complete, depending on the program you choose. Additionally, having a bachelor's degree is often a requirement for teaching English abroad, so if you don't already have one, you may need to factor in the time it takes to complete your degree. Next, your level of experience can also...  [Read more]

This form of TEFL has quickly become one of the most popular ways to earn a living teaching English as it is highly flexible and exceptionally convenient for many people. It is usually possible to fit your working hours around any other commitments you have such as work, study or family, and it can be either a full-time job or a part-time way to earn some extra cash. Probably the most attractive quality of teaching online is that it can be done from almost any location worldwide, as long as you have a stable internet connection and a suitable device. Although the requirements stated for online teaching jobs will vary greatly from one employer to the next, it should not be hard for those with a TEFL qualification to find a suitable position. The main qualification necessary for most online...  [Read more]

Securing a TEFL teaching position can vary in terms of time depending on several factors such as your qualifications, experience, the location you are targeting, and the demand for English teachers in that specific area. First and foremost, having a TEFL certification is essential to be considered for most teaching positions. If you already have a TEFL certification, the process of securing a teaching position can be quicker compared to someone who still needs to complete the certification. Additionally, having a bachelor's degree is often a requirement for teaching English abroad, especially in countries where the demand for English teachers is high. If you already possess a bachelor's degree, you may have an advantage in the job market. Experience also plays a significant role in how...  [Read more]

Teaching English in South Korea has become increasingly popular over the last decade and it is no secret that the country offers some of the best salaries for foreign teachers to be found anywhere in the world. English teachers in Korea can expect to earn between $1,500 and $3,000 US per month and it is certainly possible to save up to half of this depending on your lifestyle. On top of the basic salary you can also expect other benefits such as paid airfares, free housing and an end of contract bonus. Unsurprisingly, the high salaries and good benefits on offer have led to a high level of competition for the best jobs. If you have any teaching qualifications and experience in the classroom, you will find you have the pick of the available jobs. However, thanks to a continually high...  [Read more]

Almost anyone who has the desire to teach English abroad can make their dream come true. Although you will find some restrictions regarding teaching experience and academic qualifications in some countries, there are plenty of great destinations around the world where a TEFL certificate is all that is required. Whatever your background, work history, or age, there is the perfect teaching job waiting for you somewhere in the world. Yes, you can start a new career teaching English abroad without any form of teaching experience. Due to a huge demand for English language teachers in countries all over the world, tens of thousands of English speakers head overseas every year to work in a variety of different classrooms. Of this number, approximately 90% will have never worked in any kind of...  [Read more]

If you are looking for the widest choice of English language teaching jobs, look no further than Asia. Across the continent you will find countless opportunities in a wide range of fascinating countries, although the requirements do vary from one to the next. Some countries are only open to native English speakers and others will require a university degree, however, there are still plenty of jobs out there for anyone with a TEFL certification. Teaching English in South Korea has become increasingly popular over the last decade and it is no secret that the country offers some of the best salaries for foreign teachers to be found anywhere in the world. English teachers in Korea can expect to earn between $1,500 and $3,000 per month and it is certainly possible to save up to half of this...  [Read more]

Acronyms are widely used within the English language teaching world and EFL is one of the most common. English as a Foreign Language is typically used to describe any scenario where English is being taught or learned in a country where English is not the main language. In this situation most students are learning English as part of their school studies, in order to travel overseas, or as a hobby, and they rarely get to use it outside of their lessons. An example of EFL would be an American teaching English to Italians in Rome. While EFL stands for English as a Foreign Language, ESL stands for English as a Second Language. In practice these two acronyms are regularly used interchangeably when talking about English teaching, however, there is a genuine difference between the two that you...  [Read more]

If you are looking for a destination to teach English abroad that is slightly off the beaten track, but still offers endless opportunity for culture and travel, then Russia could be a great choice. With a population close to 150 million and an increasing focus on cross border business, Russia has a very strong demand for English language teachers, particularly in cities such as Moscow and Saint Petersburg. As demand for teachers is so high in some parts of the country language schools tend to hire year-round, unlike many other countries across Europe that often have set hiring seasons. Russia also differs from most other destinations in Europe as schools routinely hire teachers in advance from within their home countries. This means the application process and interviews are conducted...  [Read more]

As it is one of the few countries in the world that overlaps two different continents, Turkey has long been a popular destination for international travelers. Due to a steadily growing demand for the English language across much of the country, it is now also an increasingly popular destination for teaching English abroad. Job opportunities can be found in many parts of the country, but the big markets for ESL teachers are located in Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir. Technically a degree in any subject is required for all teaching jobs; however, there are often not enough teachers to fill vacant positions so a TEFL certificate is sufficient for many employers. The monthly salary you can expect when teaching English as a foreign language in Turkey will vary from around $800 to $1,800 USD per...  [Read more]

Mexico is an increasingly popular destination for teaching English abroad as it has a huge job market and it is possible for most foreign teachers to obtain a work visa. Another reason for its popularity is that foreign teachers do not need to possess a four-year degree or be a native English speaker to secure a good quality position. As long as you have completed a TEFL certification course with a reputable provider you are eligible to apply for a work visa. With this official stamp in your passport you will be free to enjoy all the fantastic culture, stunning beaches, and bustling nightlife that Mexico has to offer. There are very few restrictions on who can apply for a work visa for teaching English in Mexico. Passport holders from all countries except North Korea and Iran are...  [Read more]

  The future perfect continuous is not used a lot in everyday English usage. However, it does come up in when your EFL students get more advanced and if you plan to teach English overseas it is important to have an understanding of the less frequently used tenses. As the future perfect continuous is not often used it can be a struggle to think up teaching ideas for it. The trainer in this video shows us one idea that can be used for the tense. For this activity the students conduct a survey to find out how long someone will have been doing something by a certain point in the future. For example: Student A: How long will you have been learning English by the end of next month? Student B: I will have been learning English for three years. To find a course that will help you to...  [Read more]

Demand for TEFL qualified teachers is very strong in many parts of the world, which is why our TEFL courses are open to anyone who has a solid grasp of the English language. However, in order to successfully complete the course and go on to find a good quality teaching job you will need to put in some hard work and be willing to embrace new ideas and techniques. First and foremost, anyone thinking about earning their TEFL certification with ITTT needs to be enthusiastic, motivated and determined as every course requires a considerable amount of commitment in terms of both time and effort. If you are fully committed to becoming an English language teacher, either at home or abroad, then you should have little trouble successfully completing the course and becoming a qualified EFL...  [Read more]

Bangkok is a vibrant, hectic and awe inspiring Asian metropolis with gleaming sky scrapers rising above the incense infused air of the local Buddhist temple. Traditional floating markets are a short trip from 21st Century shopping malls selling the latest fashions and technology. The city is also home to some of the top restaurants in the region if not the world and its street food is delicious, cheap and available almost everywhere. The city is the gravitational centre of the country and attracts Thais from all over the kingdom with the promise of work as well as good schools and universities. As such, it is a great place to experience the unique cultures of the different parts of the country. ITTT’s Bangkok TEFL training course takes place in a working English language school that...  [Read more]

  Teaching English in South Korea has become increasingly popular over the last decade and it is no secret that the country offers some of the best salaries for foreign teachers to be found anywhere in the world. English teachers in Korea can expect to earn between $1,500 and $3,000 US per month and it is certainly possible to save up to half of this depending on your lifestyle. On top of the basic salary you can also expect other benefits such as paid airfares, free housing and an end of contract bonus. Unsurprisingly, the high salaries and good benefits on offer have led to a high level of competition for the best jobs. If you have any teaching qualifications and experience in the classroom, you will find you have the pick of the available jobs. However, thanks to a continually...  [Read more]

There are many reasons why people take a gap year and there is no particular best time to do it. You might have just finished high school or university and are unsure what you want to do next. You might already be in work, but are bored of the daily routine and looking for a break. Whatever your reason for taking a few months, a year, or even longer away from your existing life, it could be the best decision you ever made. After being away for a while you should find you have time to reflect on the past, enjoy your present, and most importantly, make well thought out plans for your future. Initially many people assume that teaching English during a gap year is simply a good way to earn some cash while traveling from place to place. However, there are many reasons why teaching abroad is a...  [Read more]

Many of the world's biggest and most lucrative markets for English language teachers are typically restricted to native English speakers only. Destinations such as Japan, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, are all great options for native speakers but not for thousands of other qualified teachers whose first language is not English. But don't despair; there are still plenty of exciting destinations all over the world where non-native English speakers can confidently apply for teaching positions. In countries where restrictions on nationalities are in place, the term 'native English speaker' generally refers to teachers from the USA, Canada, the UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. Other countries where English may be the first language, such as India or the...  [Read more]