Job Discussion Forums

[annunciatah]

Hello! I've just registered with Dave's ESL Cafe but have been teaching in Korea for about 9 months now. I'm nearing the end of my contract and am debating whether I should go back home for a TESOL Masters in order to broaden my job prospects in other countries.

I would like to continue to travel teaching either at an international school or a university. From my understanding, 2 years teaching experience is required when being hired for one of those positions. Is it a better idea to just work for two years?

My question basically is: Why get a Masters in TESOL? I have researched graduate programs. I can read articles online. I have heard mixed information on the it but nothing from those who have actually gotten this degree. I'm hoping someone here can shed light on the subject, with first hand experience.

Thanks!

[shenyanggerry]

If you plan a career in TESL, you'll need at least a Master's and preferably a PhD in Applied Linguistics. Schools always hire the highest academic credentials available. Right now a Bachelors is enough in most countries. Eventually you'll need more. Get it before you're encumbered with spouse and offspring.

[Zero]

I don't quite agree with shenyanggerry. For this discussion I will assume that you want and need to get a financial return on investment on any education you pursue. Some people do pursue education for enlightenment purposes. That is fine, as long as they can afford it. Some people also like to buy Corvettes, and I have no problem with that either.

Generally speaking, my rule is this: Figure out the job you want. Then determine what credentials you need in order to obtain it. To do it the other way around is backwards: Here's the degree I'll pursue, and I wonder what kind of job it might get me? That's a good way to prevent yourself from ever achieving financial success.

Here are the things to consider:

-What job do I want?

-Is an MA TESOL necessary in order to obtain it?

-Even if not necessary, would the degree help substantially?

-How much will the degree cost?

-What indirect costs will it entail, particularly in terms of lost earnings as I pursue it. (This one is BIG.)

-How much more money will I make once I get the degree than I would have without it?

-Based on the above figures, how many years will it take me to hit break-even on the degree? (A lot of people will be surprised to find that this point is 10 to 15 years in the future -- or never!)

A closing thought: My impression is that the MA TESOL excels in the Middle East and not many other places. If the Middle East appeals to you, definitely consider the MA TESOL. In certain other countries, such as Japan and Korea, it may also be helpful. But if you are looking for ROI, the options are limited.

[denise]

[Skyblue2]

[naturegirl321]

I agree with Zero. YOu really have to look at the return you'll get for the money you spend. If you spend 20K usd and are working while doing your degree, will you be able to find a job that will pay you back that 20K quickly?

And if you're thinking of studying FT, then you have to take into account that you'll be spending 20K PLUS the money you've lost that you would have made by working. HOpe this makes sense So if you normally would have made 20k, then the total is 40K.

About studying online. I've done it, I now found out that some places in the Middle East don't look too favourably on online degrees.

[denise]

Before signing up for an online program, do a quick job search in the countries/regions you think you'll be interested in to see if online degrees are accepted. No point saving all that money for a degree if the degree doesn't help you get where you want to go.

d

[naturegirl321]

[JZer]

Or apply for the summer on campus program with SIT then you won't have any problems.

[naturegirl321]

Do you mean SIT's programme that they have with a Saudi uni?

[JZer]

That or work at a Korean university and study at SIT during your summer vacation.