Job Discussion Forums

[Allthechildrenareinsane]

I know that the CELTA is generally considered an entry-level requirement to teach in Europe (in addition to having the right visa), but does anyone happen to know if applicants w/ an MA in TEFL/TESOL or a related field (e.g., linguistics) in lieu of a CELTA are equally considered for teaching jobs alongside those w/ a CELTA?

I'm working towards an MA (English language & linguistics) at the moment and am also in the process of having my Italian citizenship through jure sanguinis recognized. I've been working in Kimchi-land for the past few years, and have considered doing the CELTA either there or in the US, but don't know if it's entirely worth it considering I already have teaching experience.

Would a CELTA plus an MA make me more competitive for entry-level jobs and possibly open doors to other opportunities, or is it not worth it in my particular case in applying for jobs in Europe?

[spiral78]

A related MA will trump a CELTA in most cases, but most MA holders also have a CELTA or equivalent.

If your MA includes a hands-on practicum, this might suffice, but if not, consider taking the CELTA in Europe with European students, to help overcome the drawback of having taught before only in kimchi land.

Europe is a hotbed of CELTA and equivalent training centres (there are five or six in Prague alone, for example), turning out literally hundreds of new teachers with supervised teaching experience with European students every month. Employers often look for this, given that the job market allows them to be picky.

Also, keep in mind that experience without qualifications or in service monitoring doesn't guarantee that you've actually done it well - or can translate your Asian experience into the European context. It's really different.

I'd recommend the CELTA along with the MA, unless, as I noted above, your MA has a supervised practicum component. And if you go for the CELTA, do it in Europe where the students you teach will be representative of those you'll be working with when you start.

[Allthechildrenareinsane]