Tesol Certificate Vs Master's Degree

Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) has become a popular career choice for many individuals looking to work abroad and immerse themselves in different cultures. One common question that arises is whether it is possible to teach English abroad without a degree if you have a TEFL certificate. The answer to this question can vary depending on the country and institution you are looking to work for. In many countries, having a degree is a requirement to obtain a work visa and work legally as an English teacher. However, there are some countries where having a TEFL certificate may be sufficient to secure a teaching position, especially in private language schools or tutoring centers. It is important to research the specific requirements of the country where you wish to teach to ensure...  [Read more]

  Level 4 TEFL qualifications provide a solid base from which to start a serious EFL teaching career. Even if you are only planning to teach short-term, a level 4 TEFL will provide access to a wide range of jobs and give you a qualification that is equivalent to a first-year degree course.  [Read more]

When researching TEFL courses you will probably come across courses at various different levels, ranging from level 1 to level 8. These levels can cover everything from a 10-hour introductory course, right through to a master’s degree in TEFL. However, as this course framework covers such a wide range of qualifications it is important to have a broad understanding of the levels to ensure you take the right courses to suit your personal situation. Take a look at our course levels page for more details. At ITTT we have developed our own course level framework to ensure it is easy for everyone to compare all our different courses options. Our framework is based on the same criteria as most other recognized systems and it runs from level 3 to level 7. The basic criteria used to build our...  [Read more]

First we will look at the different levels of study currently available and how they relate to the world of TEFL qualifications. Taking the UK as an example, there are nine qualification levels; examples of actual UK qualifications at each level are given below: From the above, we can see that a degree in TEFL/TESOL is at level 6 and is therefore a very high level of study in the English teaching world. A few examples of such Level 6 courses are shown below: https://www.bachelorstudies.com/BA-English-Language-Linguistics-and-TESOL/United-Kingdom/York-St-John-University/ https://www.bachelorstudies.com/Bachelor-of-Arts-in-TESOL/USA/Great-Northern-University/ https://www.bachelorstudies.com/BA-TESOL/Thailand/Thongsook-College/ If you have a TEFL/TESOL degree the most obvious use of it would...  [Read more]

Even entry-level teaching jobs usually require applicants to have completed a standard TEFL certification course of around 120 hours. Teachers who want to take another step up the employment ladder often choose to take a higher level qualification such as a Diploma in TESOL. However, if you are seriously interested in reaching the very top of the TEFL job market, completing a master’s degree will certainly be a big help. ITTT does not oversee its own master’s degree course, but we do have a popular option that we can recommend. The Master of Education in TESOL (MEd in TESOL) from the Paris College of International Education provides a practical and affordable route towards gaining a highly regarded, internationally recognized qualification. With this qualification in your pocket you...  [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]

Teaching English in Russia can be a rewarding experience, but it is important to understand the requirements before embarking on this journey. To teach English in Russia, you typically need a bachelor's degree in any field, as well as a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certificate. Some employers may also require a teaching license or previous teaching experience. Additionally, having a good command of the Russian language can be beneficial, but it is not always a strict requirement. In terms of qualifications, a bachelor's degree is usually sufficient for teaching English in Russia. The degree can be in any field, although degrees in English, education, or linguistics may give you a competitive edge in the job market. A TEFL certificate is also commonly required and can be...  [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]

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]

Yes, having a degree in humanities can still qualify you to teach English abroad. Many countries and language schools require a bachelor's degree in any field as a minimum qualification for English teaching positions. While a degree in English or education may be preferred in some cases, a humanities degree can still be sufficient, especially if you have relevant experience or additional qualifications such as a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certificate. When applying for English teaching positions abroad with a humanities degree, it is essential to highlight any relevant coursework or experience that demonstrates your proficiency in English language and literature. Additionally, obtaining a TEFL certification can significantly enhance your qualifications and make you a...  [Read more]

Yes, having a degree in sciences can still qualify you to teach English abroad. Many countries require a bachelor's degree in any field to obtain a work visa for teaching English. However, some countries or language schools may prefer candidates with degrees in English, linguistics, or education. It's essential to research the specific requirements of the country you are interested in teaching in to ensure you meet the qualifications. In addition to a degree, most countries require English language teachers to have a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification. This certification equips you with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively teach English to non-native speakers. There are various TEFL courses available, ranging from online certifications to in-person...  [Read more]

Yes, having a degree in engineering can be beneficial when pursuing a career in TEFL. Many countries require a bachelor's degree in any field to qualify for a work visa, so your engineering degree would meet this requirement. Additionally, having a technical background can make you stand out as a TEFL teacher, especially when teaching English for specific purposes such as technical English or business English. When applying for TEFL jobs abroad with an engineering degree, it's essential to highlight any transferable skills that make you a strong candidate for teaching English. Problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and analytical thinking are all valuable traits that can be applied in the classroom. Your ability to explain complex concepts in a clear and concise manner can also be an...  [Read more]

Absolutely! Having a degree in journalism can be a great asset when it comes to teaching English abroad. While a degree in English or Education is often preferred, many countries and language schools also accept degrees in related fields such as journalism. One of the key requirements for teaching English abroad is often having a bachelor's degree in any field, so your journalism degree should meet this criterion. Additionally, your background in journalism can bring a unique perspective to the classroom and help you effectively communicate with your students. When applying for English teaching positions abroad, you may need to obtain a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification. This certification provides you with the necessary skills and knowledge to teach English to...  [Read more]

If you have a degree in linguistics, you are well-equipped to teach English as a foreign language (TEFL) abroad. Linguistics is the scientific study of language and its structure, including the study of grammar, syntax, phonetics, and semantics. This knowledge is highly beneficial for teaching English to non-native speakers, as it provides you with a deep understanding of language systems and how they work. Having a degree in linguistics can make you a more effective and confident English teacher, as you will have a strong foundation in the principles of language learning and teaching. You will be able to explain grammar rules, language patterns, and pronunciation in a clear and logical way, helping your students understand and improve their English skills. Additionally, your degree in...  [Read more]

Yes, having a degree in communications can be a valuable asset when pursuing a career in teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) abroad. While a degree in English or education is often preferred, many countries and language schools also accept degrees in related fields such as communications. One of the key requirements for teaching English abroad is to have a bachelor's degree, so your degree in communications meets this criterion. Additionally, your background in communications may provide you with transferable skills that can be beneficial in the classroom. Communication skills, for example, are essential for explaining language concepts and facilitating classroom discussions. In some cases, having a degree in communications may even make you stand out as a candidate. Your...  [Read more]

Yes, having a degree in the humanities can be a valuable asset when seeking opportunities to teach English abroad. Many countries and language schools require English teachers to have a bachelor's degree, but the field of study is often not specified. A degree in the humanities can demonstrate critical thinking skills, cultural awareness, and a strong foundation in language and communication, all of which are beneficial for teaching English as a foreign language. When applying for teaching positions abroad with a humanities degree, it is important to highlight relevant coursework or experiences that are related to language, literature, or education. Emphasizing any teaching or tutoring experience, even if it is not specifically in English, can also strengthen your application....  [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]

Teaching English abroad can be a rewarding experience, especially if you have a degree in education. Many countries and language schools require their English teachers to have a bachelor's degree, and having a degree in education can give you a competitive edge in the job market. With your background in education, you likely have the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively teach English as a foreign language. Having a degree in education can also open up opportunities for you to pursue higher-level positions, such as teacher training or curriculum development roles. Your understanding of pedagogy and educational theory can help you create engaging lesson plans and effectively manage a classroom of diverse learners. Additionally, your degree may also qualify you for higher salaries...  [Read more]

Yes, having a degree in technology can be a valuable asset when pursuing a career in teaching English abroad. Many countries require English teachers to have a bachelor's degree in any field, not necessarily in English or education. Your degree in technology can demonstrate your analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and technical expertise, which are all transferable skills that can benefit you in the classroom. In your TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) certification course, you will learn about language teaching methodologies, classroom management techniques, and lesson planning strategies. Your background in technology can enhance your teaching by incorporating multimedia resources, online tools, and interactive technology to create engaging and dynamic lessons for your...  [Read more]

Yes, having a degree in arts can still qualify you to teach English abroad. Many countries and schools require a bachelor's degree in any field to be eligible for teaching positions. However, there are some considerations to keep in mind when pursuing TEFL opportunities with a degree in arts. Firstly, it is essential to obtain a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification. This certification will provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively teach English to non-native speakers. Many schools and programs abroad require teachers to have a TEFL certification, regardless of their academic background. Additionally, having a degree in arts can be beneficial when teaching English abroad. Your background in arts may provide you with a unique perspective and...  [Read more]

  Massachusetts is not only the most populous state in the region of New England, but also an exciting vacation destination for many. “The Bay State” is bordered by the mighty Atlantic Ocean in the east and offers a wide variety of different landscapes. For example, visitors can enjoy exciting mountains, lush valleys as well as some of the finest beaches in the USA. Besides its many natural wonders, Massachusetts is also an important historic location in North America. The famous Pilgrims landed here after their long journey from England across the ocean. That’s why Massachusetts is a historic gem and witness of the colonial and revolutionary eras. Today, Massachusetts is a popular vacation destination for many Americans due to the 1,500-mile long coastline with its abundant...  [Read more]

  The state of Wisconsin is located in the Midwest, to the south of the famous Great Lakes. Due to this location, Wisconsin’s geography is very diverse and it is home to a booming farming industry. That is why the state is also known as ‘America’s Dairyland’. Whether you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city in a wooden cabin by the lake, to relax in a luxurious spa resort, or are looking for country fairs and festivals, Wisconsin will make your dreams come true. The northwest region of Wisconsin is situated beside the deep waters of Lake Superior. This area is made for adventurers as it used to be the home of the lumberjack. Today, it is a prime destination for travelers and outdoor lovers of all kinds. Visitors can enjoy kayaking around the Apostle Islands, hiking...  [Read more]

  The state of Michigan is uniquely made up of two separate peninsulas and is nicknamed ‘The Great Lakes State’ due to its scenic location amongst the famous lakes of the Midwest. The Upper Peninsula is full of great outdoor opportunities such as trekking and hiking among miles of beautiful trails. Equestrian lovers will also find endless rivers, streams and rail-trails to explore on horseback. If you are looking for a little bit more adventure, simply hop on one of the many off road vehicles available to rent throughout the area. From foggy morning strolls to picnics in the early evening, Michigan’s parks let you take a step back from the hectic life of the city. Make the most of nature’s serenity in one of six state forests, four national parks and almost a hundred state...  [Read more]

  Oregon is one of three mainland US states with a Pacific Coast. “The Beaver State” has a diverse landscape with a splendid coastline, volcano ranges, abundant lakes and rivers as well as lush, evergreen forests. Before Western settlers arrived, Oregon was largely populated by Native American tribes and today, the state is the 9th largest state in the United States. On top of that, Oregon is one of the most visited states in the US due to its lush natural scenery, making it a wonderland for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. To truly get to see all the wonders Oregon has to offer, you will have to get out of your vehicle, hike along the many trails and feel the lush nature. One of the state’s most exciting destinations is the mighty Mt. Hood. Its snowy peak, that dominates...  [Read more]

  The state of California is famous all over the world due to its sandy beaches, iconic cities and year-round great weather. California received its nickname ‘The Golden State’ from the famous Gold Rush in the mid 19th century. During this period, the state saw dramatic changes in its society with waves of immigration from the east and all over the world. Today, California is the most populous state in the USA and also one of the largest, making up almost three quarters of the West Coast. In the south of California, you will find one of the state’s most popular cities: San Diego. Often referred to as ‘America’s Finest City’, San Diego is blessed with great weather and a laid back attitude. Shop at Horton Plaza, watch a baseball game at Petco Park, or visit the Gaslamp...  [Read more]

Yes, having a degree in fine arts can still qualify you to teach English abroad. Many countries and language schools require a bachelor's degree in any field as a minimum qualification for teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL). While a degree in English or education may be preferred in some cases, a degree in fine arts can demonstrate your creativity, critical thinking skills, and cultural awareness, which are all valuable qualities in an English teacher. Additionally, obtaining a TEFL certification can further enhance your qualifications and make you a more competitive candidate in the job market. When applying for English teaching positions abroad with a degree in fine arts, it's important to highlight relevant skills and experiences that showcase your ability to effectively...  [Read more]

Yes, having a degree in another field should not prevent you from teaching English abroad. Many countries and language schools require candidates to have a bachelor's degree, but it is often not a specific requirement for the degree to be in English or education. In fact, having a degree in another field can sometimes be an advantage as it demonstrates a well-rounded background and expertise in a different subject area, which can be beneficial when teaching English as a foreign language. When applying for TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) positions with a degree in another field, it is important to highlight any relevant skills or experiences that make you a qualified candidate for the position. This could include any previous teaching or tutoring experience, language proficiency...  [Read more]

  The state of New York is famous all over the world due to the city of the same name. However, the state has a lot more to offer than just the ‘Big Apple’. ‘The Empire State’ is rich in natural wonders, and is of great importance to the country’s history due to the huge number of migrants that have passed through its ports since the early 19th century. Over 10 million people have arrived at New York immigration ports seeking a better life and to make their American dreams come true. Still today, New York is one of the most diverse states in the country and a cultural melting pot. In upstate New York you will find the region of Adirondacks which offers pure nature at Lake George’s popular campgrounds and its many relaxing lakeside resorts. Whiteface Mountain offers...  [Read more]

  Florida is one of the most popular destinations in the United States. Often referred to as “The Sunshine State”, due to its year-round great weather, Florida features the longest coastline in mainland USA and is the only state that borders the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. Florida is home to exceptional natural wonders, including some of the finest beaches and best parks in the country, as well as vibrant cities and first-class entertainment facilities. Before the first Europeans arrived in Florida, Native American groups, such as the Apalachee and Tocobaga, populated the land. Florida was the first part of the USA that was visited by Europeans and after the Spanish arrived in 1513, he named the peninsula La Florida, meaning “land of flowers”. Florida is a nature...  [Read more]

  The state of Utah in the Western USA is filled with untouched natural scenery, red canyons, rivers and creeks, making it a great destination for outdoor activities. Long before the first European settlers reached this land, various tribes of the Ute-Aztec Native American ethnicity called it their home. Another group of Native Americans, the Navajo, settled in the region around the 18th century and they are still one of the largest Native American groups in the country. Utah is a unique state where the landscape has been strongly influenced by wind, water and time. The state has some of the best parks in the USA, including five national parks, seven national monuments, three national historic trails, two national recreation areas, and one national historic site. The Mighty 5®...  [Read more]