Job Discussion Forums

NewTeacher09? · Joined: 02 Feb 2009 Posts: 3

Hello everyone, this is my first post in these forums, and I'd just like to say it looks like a very informative and supportive community. As my title states, I'm interested in looking into teaching English abroad (I am American) as sort of a 'change of pace'/'adventure' pursuit, although if I end up doing it I'll of course take it very seriously, endeavor to do a good job, etc. I am 28 and single, so I figure those conditions make it a viable option.

After researching the topic briefly (which led me to this forum), I ran across a lot of posts which state, in effect, 'all you need is a 4-yr. degree in ANY field and native knowledge of the language.' What I'm wondering is, is how stringent a requirement is it REALLY to have a degree, because I unfortunately (read: foolishly) did not complete mine. I also do not have any TEFL certifications or anything of that sort. However, if asked I would be able to provide transcripts, high SAT scores, etc., and could easily demonstrate thorough command of the language. So I guess my question is does lack of a degree automatically disbar anyone who may want to do this, period-point-blank?

I would probably be interested in teaching in Korea, where I have come to understand via a number of other forums I participate in, that there is a shortage of English teachers.

So that's it, pretty long for a first post, I apologize for that. Any advice, information, or suggestions are greatly appreciated. I'll check back later and see if the thread has gained traction.

nickpellatt · Joined: 08 Dec 2006 Posts: 1522

"So I guess my question is does lack of a degree automatically disbar anyone who may want to do this, period-point-blank?"

No, although some countries may be very difficult or even impossible. Korea is probably one of them. No qualifications of any sort and no experience will exclude you from many countries. China is possibly one of the exceptions, but this may mean working away from main cities, and having a dodgy visa. (unlikely you would be on the official working visa)

You do state you will take it seriously, endeavour to do a good job etc...part of that might be considering investing in some EFL training beforehand, and even gaining some experience in EFL in your home country first?

But yeah, you can do it without a degree.

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

GambateBingBangBOOM · Joined: 04 Nov 2003 Posts: 2021 Location: Japan

Humbug · Joined: 05 Jan 2009 Posts: 18 Location: Australia

I would suggest a qualification in one of TEFL /TESOL / CELTA and then try for a job in China. I was recently accepted for a job without a degree and was able to get the Z work Visa.
Cheers.

NewTeacher09? · Joined: 02 Feb 2009 Posts: 3

Well I appreciate the replies everybody. Some were helpful, some weren't. Wow some of you guys sound like great fun at parties, lol. Thanks for the tip re: China. Mind divulging approximately how much you're making? Enough to live? Enough to save? tx again

NewTeacher09? · Joined: 02 Feb 2009 Posts: 3

RollingStone · Joined: 19 Jan 2009 Posts: 138

naturegirl321 · Joined: 04 May 2003 Posts: 9041 Location: home sweet home

Depends on whether the person without the degree had experience and the laws of the country.

naturegirl321 · Joined: 04 May 2003 Posts: 9041 Location: home sweet home

Chancellor · Posted: Fri Feb 06, 2009 5:33 pm Post subject:

nickpellatt · Joined: 08 Dec 2006 Posts: 1522

Being able to effectively use English, isnt always related to being able to teach it. Thats where TEFL courses can help. The kind of questions a student may ask are probably going to be hard for someone who just has native speaker skills to answer.

I would guess as someone without experience and qualifications you would be looking at the lower end of the payscale (although of course there may be exceptions).

This would be a salary from as low as 3000 yuan pcm. Its enough to live on as long as you are happy to do some Chinesey things.....it isnt enough to live on if you want to eat Western food and drink nice coffee daily. Savings would also be minimal.

Sonnibarger · Joined: 15 May 2007 Posts: 320 Location: Wuhan

there are plenty of recruiters here in China that advertise "no degree/experience required" You maybe able to find a good paying/legal job through them or you maybe screwed...research is key.. I have friends that had a recruiter buy a fake degree for them so they could work in a uni here... pretty common place.. Your ability to save money is dependent on the lifestyle you want to live.. My fist year i was earning 8000rmb a month in a cheap city.. i didnt save a penny.. I did however have an incredible year... Now i have calmed down and am able to save half my pay...