Job Discussion Forums

[rob456]

From what I've seen in these posts, it seems that countries either require a bachelors degree or they don't. I gather that in Thailand I would stand a chance with some sort of certification (ie: TEFL) and no degree, whereas in Japan a B.A. or B.S. would be necessary. I haven't heard anyone mention an Associate of Arts degree and I'm curious if it would hold any weight in very many places.

[bnix]

First of all,I am not demeaning you personally or your degree.The fact is...an AA degree does not carry a whole lot of weight...in TESOL or elsewhere.Some exceptions might be an AA degree in some technical area, but NOT in English.There is a lot of competition in the TESOL field(like in almost every field).Someone who has an AA degree is going to have a lot of trouble competing with people who have bachelors degrees,masters,multiple masters,sometimes even doctorates.I know,a lot of people say"Well,maybe it is just a lot of paper!" Sometimes(at least), I am inclined to agree with them.But I am not doing the hiring.

An AA is not worth much in this field.Those places that require a degree want a bachelors degree(at least).There may be a few places where you can pull the wool over somebody's eyes and make them believe the AA is the same as a bachelors degree, but I would not count too much on doing that.

No,it is virutally worth nothing in this field.

[Kent F. Kruhoeffer]

Dear rob456:

bnix is correct. The AA degree is not = to a BA or a BS, although factually speaking, it is important to remember that hiring practices and visa regulations are NOT uniform in the world of EFL

In plain English, an AA degree is probably better than no degree, and in combination with a recognized teaching certification and a positive attitude, you will have some options, but not in every EFL market. Some countries will be off-limits; others will be happy to have you.

Generally speaking, most employers make it pretty clear about their educational requirements within the text of their adverts.

Read carefully before applying, and GOOD LUCK.

Yours,
keNt

PS: If you don't already have that AA degree, I wouldn't waste my time or money on it. If you're thinking about getting a degree, do the smart thing and go for the BA.