Employment & Prof. Development

Dear Dr. Greg,

I was hoping you could give advice to someone who hopes to teach in China.

I left college about eight years ago and I am going back to school to finish my degree. I have a great passion for history and other cultures so I will be majoring in linguistics with a minor in Chinese history and language.

This year I also started working with the Rosetta Stone program and have a Chinese friend who helps me with my pronunciation. I will be 33 when I finish my degree and my goal is to go to China soon after to start teaching.

Besides the certifications, should I be pursuing any other field of study? Or perhaps have more than just a bachelor's degree? I am uncertain how much prior teaching experience is required (or recommended). Should I have a few years of teaching under my belt before I attempt to teach in China?

Your site has been incredibly informative, and while it seems to be an incredible undertaking, it also appears to be just the challenge and experience I am looking for. Both living and working in China is something I very much wish to pursue, but want to do so the best way possible.

Thank you for any suggestions and or comments.

Most sincerely,

Tim

Hi Tim,

If your goal is make a career of teaching oral English in Asia (specifically China, Thailand, and, perhaps, Taiwan and Korea), then a bachelor's degree in any field with a TEFL certificate more than qualifies you.

If, on the other hand, you would like to have more options, then consider earning a master's degree in linguistics, English, TESOL, or education, seek certification as a teacher in the States, and then limit your search to American-curriculum international schools only: There are several in China, particularly in Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. As a licensed educator, you could also work at some of the better international schools in Hong Kong and Taiwan as well.

Salaries and conditions at international schools in China are comparable to those you will find in the States and you will be valued and respected as an educator.

Best of luck to you.