How can I teach online without a degree?
Teaching English online without a degree is indeed possible and can lead to a successful career. To navigate this path, it is important to understand why some employers require a degree and how to enhance your employability despite not having one. Key strategies include:
- Obtain a TESOL Certification: This is often the primary requirement for teaching English online and can compensate for the lack of a degree.
- Gain Experience: Start with volunteering or low-paying jobs to build your teaching experience.
- Develop Strong Teaching Skills: Focus on honing your teaching abilities, such as lesson planning, student engagement, and classroom management.
- Utilize Online Platforms: Many online teaching platforms cater to non-degree holders but look for strong language skills and a professional approach.
- Highlight Related Skills: Emphasize any skills or experiences that enhance your teaching, such as knowledge of the English language, experience with children, or expertise in a specific subject.
By focusing on these areas, you can increase your chances of finding teaching opportunities online, even without a degree.
Table of Contents
Why do some online teaching jobs require a degree?
What do you need to teach English online?
Which TESOL course should I get for teaching English online?
Why do some online teaching jobs require a degree?
Some online teaching jobs, especially those in English, require a degree for several key reasons. While a degree is often necessary to facilitate a work visa for teaching abroad, its importance extends to online teaching as well. This is largely influenced by policy reforms in major TEFL markets like China. Many of the leading online English teaching platforms are based in China, which has implemented stringent educational regulations. Since 2019, the Chinese Ministry of Education mandates that online English teachers possess not only a bachelor's degree but also a 120-hour TESOL certificate from an accredited provider. These regulations were established to align the qualifications of online teachers with those of foreign language instructors physically working in China. Consequently, this has set a precedent affecting global standards in online education, prompting other international teaching platforms to elevate their requirements as well.
What do you need to teach English online?
Most employers require a 120-hour TESOL certification. Without a degree, acquiring a TESOL certificate is crucial unless you are prepared to work for a minimal wage.
It is also worth noting that not all TESOL certifications are equal. Although budget websites offer cheap certifications, these may have hidden costs and lack the necessary accreditation, which ultimately hinders recognition by employers. Therefore, a low-quality TESOL course could cost you more in the long run.
You should look for accreditations from government bodies or organizations connected with governments to ensure the course provider is adequately accredited.
Also read: Which TESOL courses are accredited?
In addition to certification, a fluent command of English is, of course, a requirement. Non-native English speakers can teach English online without a degree, but it might be more challenging. To this end, employers may require English proficiency tests from non-native speakers, like IELTS or Cambridge Proficiency certificates.
Which TESOL course should I get for teaching English online?
The international standard 120-hour TESOL training is a good starting point. However, if you want to set yourself apart and potentially command a higher salary, consider honing your skills in a specific area, such as online English teaching.
Advanced TESOL courses can help you stand out, showcasing that you have specialized skills relevant to the job. These credentials, alongside your 120-hour certification, can significantly improve your prospects when competing with degree holders.
Our 170-hour online TESOL course provides a comprehensive introduction to teaching English as a foreign language. After completing the 170-hour course, you should have a solid understanding of English grammar and practical skills for designing engaging, well-organized lessons for both online and in-person classes.
If you are already TESOL certified, consider our specialized 60-hour, 10-unit Course in Teaching English Online. One of the best features of this course is its flexibility, allowing you to complete it at your own pace. Upon successful completion, you will also have access to our dedicated support services.
Also read: How does the lifetime job support service work?
