Job Discussion Forums

[onegirl]

Hi.
I'm seriously considering teaching in Asia (not certain where yet) and have a lot of q's. I realize a lot of them may have been asked to some extent elsewhere on the board so I will only ask question I feel are unique to my situation. Note: I realize this is a big decision and don't take it lightly. Therefore any and all comments/suggestions/feedback etc. is well received (but taken with a grain of salt at the same time )

As of spring 2005 I will have received a 3 year communication related diploma from post secondary (college)...It is by no means a BA and I'm wondering if my diploma along with a tefl cert will be enough...I've also tutored children/young teenagers in the past which I hope will count for something.

I guess my question is I read a lot of posts that insist on a BA..is a 3 year diploma (coupled with my cert and experience) not enough?

Thanks.

[sojourner]

Hi Onegirl,

To teach (legally !) in Sth Korea, one requires an actual DEGREE - not a diploma ! I'm not sure about the situation in Japan - hopefully, someone like Glenski or Gordon will provide some info re that country.

I'm currently working in China. I have come across many people without degrees who have found jobs here - even in universities and colleges ! So, if you are interested in China, you'll have no problem in getting a job - your employer will arrange with the authorities for the issue of your Foreign Resident's and Foreign Expert's cards. In China, it's best to work at a university or college, rather than at a language school. If interested in China, send me a PM and I'll provide you with the name and email address of an efficient and conscientious recruiter.

You mentioned that you have a 3 year diploma. Having an actual degree would certainly enhance your chances of getting a reasonable job in the ESL world. Why don't you enquire about having your diploma articulated into a degree ? This means that you'll receive some credit for your diploma course, and may only be required to do a few more units in order to complete a bachelor's programme.

Regards,

Peter

[onegirl]

Hi Peter!
Thanks for the great post...I did put up another post on the Japan forum and got tons of useful information.
I have a few questions for you...why is it better to work in a college or university than a language school (pardon me if this question is 'simple' but i'm a newbie and take my research very seriously...dont wanna jump into anything)?

I'm definetly aware of the benefits of getting a degree...what I'd like to do is get started teaching with my diploma then take online (distance courses) to get my Degree. If I waited until I had my degree before I started working it'd take me 2 years...I'd rather start working and do my degree at the same time..thus getting a good foot in the door..so once I have my degree I'd already have a year or 2 of teaching under my belt.