Job Discussion Forums

[westbrook1]

I'm not Jewish, but I just got my master's in Jewish history because the subject always intrigued me. I am looking at esl jobs in the UAE and middle east and lots of them ask for a master's degree, apparently in any subject. If I show them this degree will it disqualify me right off the bat for employment? Saudi Arabia seems to be completely out of the question but places like Dubai seem to be fine. Has anyone had any experience with this issue?

[santi84]

No direct experience but in general, the jobs in the Middle East that require an MA usually expect it to be in TESOL or a related subject, along with a few years experience.

On a personal level (and I admit my experience is limited to Egypt which obviously has deeper roots with this conflict), I cannot imagine an employer in the ME hiring you. Sorry. If you had other qualifications and worked at an international school, maybe, but an actual Arab employer? Really, really doubtful. Even the more "moderate" Arab countries will refuse entry to an Israeli passport - the state of Israel is not recognized, even in Dubai UAE. The prejudice is quite strong.

Yes, I understand you are not Jewish yourself - but I don't think it matters if the Jewish History MA is what you will be advertising to get the job.

[westbrook1]

Yes, you're probably right. Quite a shame isn't it?

[dustinm90]

If you're looking for an inexpensive Masters to replace your MA, you may want to look into American Public University System (APUS), also referred to as American Military University (AMU).

They offer online distance-learning degrees that are regionally accredited (accepted just like degrees from brick-and-mortar Universities) and charge only $250/credit (that's $12,000 for a Masters.)

Programs can be completely completed online, from anywhere in the world (the University is designed with the needs of deploying soldiers in mind), and they don't charge for textbooks.

You can get an MA, MSc, or MEd.