Job Discussion Forums

[epik_teacher]

This is for a friend of mine who is considering ESL in Russia. He is American and has a 2 year business degree and I'm trying to convince him to do the CELTA to help his credentials. Is it possible to teach in Russia without a Bachelors Degree and just a 2 year? Thanks for your responses.

[jpvanderwerf2001]

It's possible, but I wouldn't recommend it. Why not finish up the Bachelor's?

[Nexus]

I've come across a lot of teachers here in Russia without a bachelors degree, including some Assistant Directors of Studies. A CELTA (or other such certificate) is much more important in terms of employability and confidence in your own work.

A bachelors degree may be a requirement for working with some international exams but it won't be an issue when applying to most language schools.

[jpvanderwerf2001]

You're right, Nexus, but what if the person doesn't like/make it as an EFL teacher? AAs are generally employable in very limited scopes back in the States, while Bachelor's tend to have more professional options.
Also, as you'd mentioned, if the person wants to make EFL a career (gasp!) then--even with a cert, the lack of a Bachelor's might prove a barrier sometime down the road (becoming a DOS, becoming an examiner, etc); wouldn't it be prudent to finish 'er up now?
It can be difficult later--for economic or personal reasons, to finish up a degree. I'd recommend doing it now.
Just my dva cent.

[Nexus]

True dat, bro

[jpvanderwerf2001]

Word

[Sashadroogie]

Safe