TESOL FAQ
With over 1 billion English Language Learners in the world, the news is good-there is a huge variety of possibilities to pursue in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL).
Consider the staggering statistics in the United States alone:
- Nearly 1 in 5 people in the US speak a language other than English at home.
- Monolingual, non-English speakers earn 50% less than the average bilingual person. Studies show that those who are bilingual are three times more likely to attend college.
- The number of Americans speaking a language at home other than English has more than doubled since 1980.
What kind of degree should I get?
A TESOL Certificate is a generic term, with little regulation of quality. It can vary significantly depending on the provider of the program. Degrees recognized by reputable employers offer at least 100 hours of training and supervised practice teaching experience. Some overseas employers may have less stringent requirements.
Academic institutions offer TESOL certificates, licensure, minors, and majors. A licensure is for education majors interested in teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) in American public schools. Non-education majors can utilize TESOL skills in academic institutions, language schools, social agencies, business/technology institutes, church programs, or missions opportunities.
What is the job market like?
Currently, Indiana has the fourth highest growth rate of LEP students in the nation. As there is a significant shortage of certified ESOL teachers, demand will only continue to grow.
Internationally, programs that utilize trained native speakers of English cannot provide enough teachers to meet the demand. Such English as a Foreign Language (EFL) programs vary significantly in certification requirements.
Where might I work with a TESOL degree?
Due to the broad scope of the TESOL field, the benefits of a TESOL degree vary broadly. While the very best jobs are offered to M.A. and Ph.D. degreed professionals, there are many jobs available to native speakers with training. For instance, students with TESOL training may be able to find jobs in the following arenas: language schools, social agencies, private tutoring, public schools, and church or volunteer programs.
Where can I do my practicum?
Anywhere of your choice as approved by TESOL faculty. With approval from a TESOL faculty member, you make your own arrangements based on your interests and schedule. Former students have completed their practicum requirement in South Korea, Ecuador, Russia, Hong Kong, Chicago, and Indianapolis.
