Job Discussion Forums

tanklor1 · Joined: 29 Aug 2006 Posts: 26

Hi, guys. I'm a complete newbie in the field of English teaching. I just received my B.A. a few months ago. I plan to leave for Asia next year, but I was woundering if Japan would be a good chocie for someone like me, who just has a B.A. I've been looking into the Korean market becuase that seems like the simpler choice. But I have been learning Japanese for two years while at University and I don't really want to learn Korean since I already have a firm grasp on Japanese, so I was woundering what the chances of a guy with just a B.A. has in the english teaching market? Any information wouls be helpful. Thanks.

callmesim · Joined: 27 Oct 2005 Posts: 279 Location: London, UK

I have a B.A. and am teaching at ECC. In the big schools, you'll find LOTS of BA graduates. And if, for now, you're just wanting to get to Japan and try it all out then you're qualified. On paper.

Khyron · Joined: 10 Mar 2006 Posts: 291 Location: Tokyo Metro City

Why would you go to Korea if you'd rather be in Japan?

You know some Japanese, you're qualified, and there is plenty of work here for you. The choice should be obvious.

BTW, Korea is not simpler. A quick glance through the Korean forums here should clue you in to that.

Glenski · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Posts: 12844 Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN

Except for the university teachers, probably 90% of all others have only a bachelor's degree. No specific major is needed to teach in Japan. And a very large number, perhaps even more than half, are fresh college graduates.

Happy job hunting.

AndyH · Joined: 30 Sep 2004 Posts: 417

Come to Japan.
Stay away from Korea.

Jon Taylor · Joined: 09 Mar 2005 Posts: 238 Location: Tokyo

You would be able to save considerably more in Korea at the moment due to the continual worsening state of the Japanese Yen and the good state of the Korean Won.

Salaries in Korea are going up (1.8M average 2 years ago, 2.2M average at present) whereas salaries in Japan have at best remained static for the last 10 years.

Lower cost of living in Korea and apartments are paid for (you will not have to pay rent in Korea.....In Japan you are likely to be paying full rent)

Most contracts offer a significantly better end of contract bonus in Korea (usually 1 months salary compared with 50-60,000 yen in Japan)

and.......most Korean schools pay for all of your flights. In Japan, there are MANY schools that do not.

So if it's a case of finances then Korea would be a much better choice.