Teach ESL to Kids

Dear Shannon Sensei,
Do I need a teaching degree to teach ESL?

Mike

Dear Mike,

You don’t need a teaching degree to teach English in Japan, however, many other countries do require you to have a TESL (Teach English as a Second Language) or TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) certificate. Check out the requirements for the country you are interested.

Even though Japan does not require a TESL or TEFL certificate, your chances of getting a better job are higher if you do have it, so it is a worthwhile investment.

If you live near a big city, then you’re likely to be able to find a weekend course that you can attend in person. (Just Google “TESL certificate your city”. You don’t mention what city you are in, so I can’t recommend a specific course.). If you don’t live near a big city, don’t fret! These days, TESL and TEFL certificates are readily available through online courses. “i to i” is one such company who does online TEFL courses and they are great because they offer a free trial. Click below:

Online TEFL course – free trial

Additionally, if you have a traditional teaching degree, you’ll be up for even better job opportunities. At my small private preschool, applicants who have an Early Childhood Education degree are highly favored over applicants with no teaching degree at all.

So the quick answer is that you don’t always need a teaching degree to get a job teaching ESL abroad. There are many companies who will hire you without one. But having one will definitely increase your chances of getting a better job.

Love,
Shannon Sensei