Job Discussion Forums

tjc · Joined: 19 Mar 2010 Posts: 4

Hi there,

With a PhD in Education and an MA in Applied Linguistics, is there a chance for me to lecture in KSA?

I'm thinking about applying for lecturer positions in the Gulf after graduation; I know Dubai has English speaking university courses but I don't know much about Saudi.

jobs.ac.uk had a post up recently for a university in Jubail that was employing applied linguistics professors. Would I be able to find a job like this in Riyadh? Are positions limited to Applied Linguistics or could I teach Education?

Thanks

Mia Xanthi · Posted: Sun Mar 21, 2010 9:57 pm Post subject:

You are more likely to find such jobs in the UAE and Oman, and (less frequently) in Qatar and Kuwait. The UAE and Oman have put a lot of money and resources into training locals to become classroom teachers. Some of the UAE programs are quite extensive, but most will require that you supervise teachers in the government schools in addition to lecturing.

Good luck with your search.

Never Ceased To Be Amazed · Posted: Mon Mar 22, 2010 1:50 am Post subject:

Don't denigrate your education by being drawn towards the flame, dear moth! saudi is not what it apparently is touted! There was a time, but not anymore. Follow Mia's advice and check out the U.A.E. or other certain Gulf nations. With yer creds, you should fare well.

NCTBA

scot47 · Joined: 10 Jan 2003 Posts: 15343

In the unlikely event of getting a job teaching "Applied Linguistics", where would you go after KSA? That space on your CV would the the academic equivalent of the Mark of the Beast. No serious employer outside KSA would consider you.

teflerlifer · Joined: 16 Mar 2010 Posts: 27

First of all congratulations on your qualifications. If I could face the toil of 3-5 years writing and studying I would consider a Doctorate. However, I am not enamoured enough of this TEFL world (or of study).

I think you would be far better off sticking -LIKE A LEECH to the UK in your job searches. The more time you spent over here the more de-skilled and i believe de-motivated you would become.

Saudi's new super university might be worth looking into. KAUST -- although by looking at their website it seems there are no positions in Education.

I think the majority of people who have taught in this neck of the woods would agree with me.

There might be a 'handful' of truly good jobs out there with truly excellent students and an environment to match where you would feel that you are progressing. All too often teachers' feel they are treading water.

veiledsentiments · Joined: 20 Feb 2003 Posts: 17644 Location: USA

lazycomputerkids · Joined: 22 Sep 2009 Posts: 360 Location: Tabuk

tjc · Joined: 19 Mar 2010 Posts: 4

Thanks for the advice everyone; it sounds like Saudi isn't worth the tax-free salary and free housing after all..

Gaining a few years of experience in the Gulf or China is recommended nowadays because most of the UK's international student body are from these places; apparently it demonstrates an understanding of socio-cultural issues.

I think it's great that people like you are available online and willing to share your experiences with rookies such as myself. I know a handful of other soon-to-be graduates who have mentioned Saudi, however, their greatest concerns are related to the country's lack of pubs more than anything else.

Thanks again and apologies for the non-TEFL question; as I'm sure you're aware, there aren't many forums out there for university lecturers.

Good luck getting out of that place and returning to the UK.. I understand you need an "exit-visa" to leave.. now that made me chuckle.. a visa to leave a country.

Well, cheers.

Never Ceased To Be Amazed · Posted: Tue Mar 23, 2010 2:14 am Post subject:

God! Is SENSIBILITY on this board by a prospective newbie who actua;;y LISTENS to the advice given a BREATH OF FRESH AIR. Good for you, OP!

As I and others have said, saudi isn't what it apparently is touted to be. It may have ONCE been sorta close, but it isn't now...just as ladies in the American South no longer wear hoop skirts and drink mint julips whilst lazin' the day away.

Keep yer nose in the Gulf, but elsewhere. Research these threads more and get a feel of the better countries to look into.

Here's a hint: Consider the country that, currently, has the World's tallest building. Here's anudder hint: It's named after a person.

NCTBA

lazycomputerkids · Joined: 22 Sep 2009 Posts: 360 Location: Tabuk

Homer, you're being a muppet.
The post is a sockpuppet.

Never Ceased To Be Amazed · Posted: Tue Mar 23, 2010 2:28 pm Post subject:

Dear lck:

I remain unconvinced. The OP has moved over to the "other" board. I think that too many with too much get drawn into saudi based on out-dated dreams...present company excluded, tho. Very Happy

BTW, I like you much more when you broadcast "in the clear".

NCTBA

lazycomputerkids · Joined: 22 Sep 2009 Posts: 360 Location: Tabuk

Never Ceased To Be Amazed · Posted: Tue Mar 23, 2010 4:40 pm Post subject:

"You'll have to explain 'in the clear', or not. At any rate, I don't get it."

John and some others will get it. It's military-speak, which you may realize that I have more than a nodding acquaintance with.

"In the clear" refers to a non-coded or scrambled transmission. It is unambiguous and easy for some simpletons like me to parse and understand.

NCTBA