Korean Job Discussion Forums

Whistleblower · Joined: 03 Feb 2007

Hello. I am getting interested in further development and education (albeit in the UK and maybe of use to those in Korea). However, I don't know whether to go for the DELTA or the MA.

Those that have experience choosing/doing one or the other, please let me know what you thought. I will be studying part-time and away from the campus so it must be flexible enough at the moment.

So far what I know; the DELTA is now modular and I can study/undertake exams whilst I work (yippee). The DELTA will take about 9 months of continuous study, work and planning to complete.

So any advice would be appreciated.

p.s. - I maybe coming back to Korea in aroudn 5~10 years. Wink

afsjesse · Joined: 23 Sep 2007 Location: Kickin' it in 'Kato town.

If you're thinking of doing this longterm I'd earn the MA TESL/A.L. That would be far better then a DELTA in my opinion.

teacherinseoul · Joined: 18 May 2008

DELTA is practical and can be done much more quickly than a master's degree. It has an excellent, international reputation, for a certificate.

That being said, the Master's degree will open more doors of employment. DELTA doesn't mean much to those unfamiliar with TESOL certifications (ie., most school owners, students, and students' parents).

cdninkorea · Joined: 27 Jan 2006 Location: Seoul

Last year I met a representative of the British Council at the Int'l KOTESOL conference. I asked him about requirements for working at certain (good, well-paying) jobs in different countries, and he said I would be required to have some sort of teaching certification.

I asked him if an MA in Applied Linguistics would count, and he said it didn't as it's theory based; applicants need some practical certification, like a CELTA or TESL.

I guess it depends on what kind of job you want though- university jobs in Korea seem to prefer MAs, for example.

bassexpander · Joined: 13 Sep 2007 Location: Someplace you'd rather be.

refikaM · Joined: 06 May 2006 Location: Gangwondo

I am currently seriiously considering a DELTA.. Been teaching ESL/EFL for almost 20 years and feel like I need a good "kickstart" without the time required for an MA. I currently have a university TESL cert (year long program), and have taught in just about every EFL teaching capacity there is in several countries. I've taught in universities, but never as a tenured instructor and I ain't gettin' any younger.. So, good question for those of you out there who have DELTAs... Is it worthwhile? Has the DELTA allowed you to secure university or other quality EFL positions?