What are TESOL course hours?
TESOL course hours refer to the total amount of time required to complete a TESOL certification course. This varies widely among different providers due to the freedom each has in designing their courses. Typically, TESOL courses range in duration from shorter programs of around 50 hours to more comprehensive courses of 120 hours or more. To determine the right TESOL course for your needs, consider what you aim to achieve with the qualification. Are you seeking a basic introduction to ESL teaching, or do you require a more in-depth program that prepares you for advanced teaching positions? This decision should guide your selection of a course with an appropriate number of hours that aligns with your professional goals.
Table of Contents
What are short-format TESOL courses and who are they aimed at?
What are standard length TESOL courses and who are they aimed at?
What are advanced and specialized TESOL courses and who are they aimed at?
Can a TESOL course be completed quicker than advertised?
What are short-format TESOL courses and who are they aimed at?
Many people are drawn by the opportunity to spend time helping others by volunteering as an ESL teacher. In many countries there is a need for qualified teachers to provide English language instruction that will help disadvantaged people to find jobs within the tourism industry or other local businesses. The skills and knowledge necessary for this type of position are covered in short-format TESOL courses.
What are standard length TESOL courses and who are they aimed at?
A standard length TESOL course is generally considered to be at least 100 hours in length. This type of course is typically required to apply for full-time paid teaching jobs. Our 120-hour TESOL certification course covers all the main topics a teacher needs to get started on their international teaching career. If you want to be even better prepared for life in the classroom, our in-class TESOL certification course also includes extensive teaching practice. ITTT has in-class courses available in dozens of countries around the world that provide a minimum of 120 hours of face-to-face training on teaching theory, as well as 6 to 10 hours of observed teaching practice.
What are advanced and specialized TESOL courses and who are they aimed at?
Advanced and specialized TESOL courses are designed to provide a deeper level of expertise and are targeted at individuals seeking to enhance their teaching credentials and career prospects in specific areas of ESL teaching. An example of an advanced course is our 370-hour Diploma in TESOL, which greatly boosts job prospects and potential salary by expanding your qualifications beyond the basic level. This course is particularly beneficial for those aiming to solidify their teaching career with an advanced certification.
Specialized TESOL courses, on the other hand, focus on specific areas of ESL teaching such as business English, teaching young learners, and teaching English online. Our 50-hour specialized TESOL courses are ideal for educators who wish to focus on these niche teaching fields. These specialized courses are typically pursued after completing a standard TESOL certification and are aimed at those looking to diversify their teaching skills and enter specialized sectors of ESL education.
Can a TESOL course be completed quicker than advertised?
The duration to complete a TESOL course, as advertised by the number of study hours, is flexible and can vary depending on the individual trainee's circumstances. While courses are typically labeled with a specific number of hours, this is more of a guideline than a strict requirement. The actual time taken to complete the course can be shorter if a trainee is highly motivated and can dedicate a significant amount of time to their studies. For instance, individuals who can commit more hours per day to the course have the potential to complete it quicker than the average stated time. This flexibility allows trainees to progress at a pace that suits their personal schedule and learning style.
