Is it worth taking a TEFL degree?
A degree in TEFL/TESOL is at level 6 (of the UK qualifications system) and is therefore a very high level of study in the English teaching world. We will show later what level six means, in the overall qualification scheme.
Table of Contents
What can these degrees be used for?
Other jobs that will become available with your degree
1. Director of Studies in an ESL situation
2. Consulting and advisory positions
3. Writing and editing for publications such as magazines
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A few examples of such Level 6 university courses from around the world are shown below:
https://www.bachelorstudies.com/BA-English-Language-Linguistics-and-TESOL/United-Kingdom/York-St-John-University/https://gnu.edu/academics/bachelor-of-arts/b-a-in-tesol/https://www.thongsookcollege.com/ba-tesol
What can these degrees be used for?
Generally speaking countries that pay higher salaries for TEFL/TESOL teacher require a degree, though usually this may be in any subject. However if you have a TEFL/TESOL degree you will have access to some of the highest paying jobs in the industry.
The following are some examples of monthly English teaching salaries in the Middle East, where a TEFL/TESOL degree is required as part of the job outline:
• UAE: $1,800 - $5,500 USD per month• Qatar: $1,600 - $4,500 USD per month• Bahrain $1,500 - $3,000 USD per month
As the cost of living is also relatively low and accommodation and airfare packages are often included with jobs in these countries, the potential for savings are also very high.
Other jobs that will become available with your degree
Management positions tend to take you further from the classroom as you move up the management ladder. If you are looking for a change from the classroom, moving into a management role may be a good option.
Management roles include the following examples:
1. Director of Studies in an ESL situation
2. Consulting and advisory positions
There are many opportunities to act in consulting and advisory roles in both governmental and non-governmental organizations. Look in professional newspapers papers for opportunities or search online.
3. Writing and editing for publications such as magazines
You can get into this area straight away by posting material on education blog sites, of which there are literally thousands. Build up a portfolio of published material before searching for the many opportunities in this area.
4. Curriculum development
Curriculum development takes place at every level of teaching worldwide. From individual classrooms to National Educational Planning and implementation, curriculum developers with good subject knowledge and wide educational experiences are highly sought after.
Levels of TEFL Degrees
Finally we will look at the different levels of study currently available and how they relate to the world of TEFL qualifications. Our examples below use the UK qualifications system, there are nine qualification levels; examples of actual UK qualifications are given for each level below:
Entry level• Entry Level Certificate (ELC)• Skills for Life
Level 1• GCSE - grades 3, 2, 1 or grades D, E, F, G• Level 1 National Vocational Qualification (NVQ)Level 2
• GCSE - grades 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4 or grades A+, A, B, C• Level 2 NVQ
Level 3• A Level• International Baccalaureate Diploma• Level 3 NVQ
Level 4• Certificate of Higher Education (CertHE)• Higher National Certificate (HNC)• Level 4 NVQ
Level 5• Diploma of Higher Education (DipHE)• Higher National Diploma (HND)• Level 5 NVQ
Level 6• Degree with honors - for example Bachelor of the Arts (BA) hons, Bachelor of Science (BSc) hons• Level 6 NVQ• Ordinary degree without honors
Level 7• Integrated master's degree, for example Master of Engineering (MEng)• Master's degree, for example Master of Arts (MA), Master of Science (MSc)• Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)
Level 8• Doctorate, for example Doctor of Philosophy (PhD or DPhil)• Level 8 Diploma
Conclusion
In conclusion, obtaining a degree in TEFL/TESOL at level 6, as per the UK qualifications system, opens up a plethora of opportunities in the English teaching world. The provided examples of Level 6 university courses globally showcase the diverse academic avenues available. Beyond the classroom, a TEFL/TESOL degree unlocks high-paying positions in the Middle East and positions you for managerial roles, consultancy, writing and editing, and curriculum development. As we've explored the different levels of TEFL degrees, it's evident that higher qualifications bring forth increased prospects, from entry-level certificates to doctorates. Your TEFL/TESOL journey is not just a qualification; it's a gateway to a multifaceted and rewarding career with the potential for continuous growth and impact. Embark on your TEFL/TESOL adventure and unlock a world of possibilities.
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