Tefl.NET Forums

Hello all,

I've recently enrolled on an EDI CertTEFL course, a course which includes real assessed teaching practice and is accredited at the same level as CELTA. I don't have a degree at present, however I have read most of the topics on that subject both on here and on other forums so I'm aware that puts me at a significant disadvantage. I have been intending to gain a degree through the Open University for years now but it's something I've always put off, but it is something I do intend to do in the very near future.

I currently work in a UK government department and expect my job to end within the next 6-12 months due to cut backs, and have thought about TEFL for a long time without ever doing anything about it previously. My hope is that once I gain my EDI CertTEFL qualification I will be able to find employment in the TEFL worldwithout a degree, and then study for a degree distance learning part-time whilst working. Is this something that sounds feasible to those of you with experience?

I'm aware that until I gain a degree there will be limitations as to where I can work, and it may be more difficult to gain employment. Am I kidding myself thinking I can work in TEFL whilst gaining a degree?

For the record I'm 32 years old at present.

Thanks in advance for any advice.

If you are very flexible about location and have low enough standards about job conditions, you will certainly find some work without a degree. Note that some countries, e.g. South Korea, won't accept distance degrees for a teaching visa.