Job Discussion Forums

[HoPie]

Hey, I was wondering if any of you have taught abroad without a degree? From what I heard if you try and find work overseas without a degree you will get paid less and be hired at much more beat down places. Is this completely true? I am definitely going to get my CELTA certificate, I was just wondering if it's worth it when I don't have a degree.

Advice is greatly appreciated!

(This is also posted in the newbie forum, sorry for the double post!)

[spiral78]

Depends quite a bit on what regions of the world you're interested in.

Basically, if it's somewhere they really need teachers and where most people don't want to go - you have a better chance.

In competitive job markets, not having a degree is obviously more of a problem

That said, there are countries that do NOT legally require a degree, and if you can make a highly professional and responsible appearance, you may have a decent chance.

So, where do you think you might like to go?

[spiral78]

A second thought.....



I am a language teacher after all, and I have a highly sensitive nose for implications, even though this is clearly 'just' an online forum.



And I probably don't actually want to know























What's the origin of your 'name,' HoPie?

No, I am sure I DON'T want to know.








But if I knew who you are and you applied to teach at 'my' university, I probably wouldn't hire you, I must admit Bad impression, right or wrong.

[HoPie]

Whaaattt??

HoPie is my nickname! My full name is Holly Pilot! I don't even know what you are talking about! I am offended that you would judge me so quickly. This is a forum, not a formal interview.

[johnslat]

Dear Hopie,

Ah, I thought you might be Hopi. But good thing your name isn't Sharon Ito.



Regards,
John

[santi84]

Schools generally require some level of higher education for their instructors - abroad or at home (assuming "home" is the US, Canada, UK, etc).

There aren't many good jobs available for those who do not have the basic industry standard qualifications to teach EFL (degree + certificate with observed teaching practice). There are two places to teach without a degree.

1. Anywhere illegally (which is certainly less pay and a beat down place, as they can pull all sorts of stunts on you - I would never recommend this)
2. Countries where a degree is not required for a visa (legal work). These are generally the countries where the pay is not good (that being said, a lot of people enjoy the lifestyle).

Whether or not it is worth it is entirely up to you. Some people will endure a good job with a bad lifestyle for the money, others will accept a low wage but enjoy the culture and life.

[nickpellatt]

A number of 'teachers' see ESL/EFL as a way to travel the world chasing pretty young girl students...The username 'could' be mistaken for the 'humourous' name of a young guy wanting to spread more looove than English around the world...

Anyway...I taught in China without a degree, as did a friend of mine. It is possible although you are less likely to land the plum jobs. Since my first job I have finished my degree which will open more doors in more places.

[HoPie]

Ah! You guys have all been very helpful, thank you.

And Sharon Ito?.. I am so confused.

I am also very lost at how you can think my name means something inappropriate.. ah well no worries guys I'm not changing my name to it any time soon.