Free Housing and Language Classes in Exchange for English Classes

Updated 8 October 2013

If you're looking for a cultural experience and are only able to commit to teaching for a short time then swapping English classes for room, board, and language lessons might be for you.


Bolivia

From site.catholicfavors.com

• La Paz: The Point Hostel is always looking for cool, outgoing and responsible people who speak a couple of languages and can commit at least a month. They offer competitive wages, a bed, half board (breakfast and lunch), free entrance to the best clubs and discos, and much more. They need hostel managers, bar managers, barmen, and receptionists.

Brazil

• Porto Alegre: V. Baumhardt Ensino de Linguas is looking for teachers to teach English for one or two semesters. You'll get free housing, visa assistance, Portuguese lessons, and a small stipend.

Chile

• Santiago: Manhattan English Institute email them on elbajaramillos@hotmail.com (thanks go to dannyboyinchile). They offer free housing and Spanish lessons.

• Various: English Opens Doors offers home-stay with a Chilean family, meals, health insurance, TEFL training, an online Spanish course and a participation bonus of 60,000CLP for each month of service.

China

• Various: Omedia offers English in exchange for Chinese lessons or Taichi.

Costa Rica

• Torguguero: Meybel Hostel and Hostel El Icaco have been known to offer free housing in exchange for English lessons.

Czech Republic

• Prague: Jazykava Contact them op info@jazykava.cz (thanks go to Chris Westergaad). They currently offer inexpensive Czech lessons and are working on a language exchange. Try reading Chris Westergaard's info on teaching in Prague as well.

Guatemala

• Xela: Don Diego hostel (thanks go to OleLarssen). They offer free housing in exchange for English classes.
• Xela: Utatlan Spanish School. If you will be in Xela for more than two months then you can either get paid for the hours you teach or exchange them for Spanish classes

Mexico

• Due to the low cost of living, more and more people are going to Mexico to retire. Check out Retire in Luxury in Mexico for more info.
• Chipas: Dunham Institute contact them on academic-coordinator@dunhaminstitute.com. They have a language exchange where you get free housing and Spanish lessons. You must commit at least five months (from August to January or February until July).

Peru

• Arequipa, Cusco, Lima, Mancora, and Puno: The Point Hostel is always looking for cool, outgoing and responsible people who speak a couple of languages and can commit at least a month. They offer competitive wages, a bed, half board (breakfast and lunch), free entrance to the best clubs and discos, and much more. They need hostel managers, bar managers, barmen, and receptionists.
• Arequipa: In return for working at the La Casa de los Pinguinos Hostel you get room, full board and several excursions (rafting, cycling and Colca Canyon). Working hours: 7.30am - 10am and 4.30pm – 9pm, 6 days a week. During your stay you will work in the front desk and bar. Your main job is to give information to tourists. Requirements: fluent English, basic Spanish, ideally German, and non-smoker. The room has a double bed, cable TV, WiFi and private bathroom. 3-6 months.
• Chachapoyas: International Language Center contact them on ilc.chachapoyas@gmail.com. You are paid about 200 usd a month to teach 25 hours of English, German, or French a week. Housing is about 50usd a month. Spanish lessons are also available. Email Angel for more information.
• Huaraz and Lima: Britannia Teachers Peru is an NGO that teaches English to students in the poorer areas of Peru. Contact them on contact@britannia-teachers-peru.com.
• Piura: I.E.P. Bilingue Brilliant Star in Piura contact them on ashley.pohlmann@gmail.com. They offer free housing, board, and Spanish lessons.

 
Poland

• You stay for 6 days in a 3-star hotel in Poland (board + lodging paid) in exchange for conversing in English with Polish participants. You need to a native speaker though.More info at Angloville.

Spain

• Various: Pueblo Ingles has 8 day teaching exchanges throughout Spain throughout the year. You'll get free food, accomodations, and a coach ticket back to Madrid.

United States

• The US State Department has a list of exchange programmes.

Vietnam

• Phan Thiet: Tri Cong has been said to offer free housing and a stipend in exchange for English classes (thanks go to ajc19810).

World

• Peace Boat offers a chance to teach on board as well as visit a number of countries. Volunteer positions last three months.

Volunteering, English Camps, and Teaching Exchanges

• CSIET has comprehensive information about exchanges.
• Volunteer South America which has a fantastic list of free and low-cost volunteer opportunities. 
• You can find more info in Volunteer Opportunities for Teachers.
• If you want to earn some money then summer and winter camps might work for you since you don't have to sign a contract for a long time.
• If you're an experienced teacher try a teaching exchange.

Disclaimer:

• Please join my Patreon page
• I use affiliate links. I may earn a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on links. Read more at my FTC Disclosure and Privacy Policy Statement

How to Create a Teaching Portfolio

Updated 28 November 2014

Having a variety of material available is key to creating a good teaching portfolio. Try to collect material from each job. It’s better to have more items that allow you to pick and choose when going to a job interview, than have too little to show. Look for a professional binder that allows you to add or take out pages as needed. Rather than punch holes directly into papers, it’s better to buy plastic sheet protectors to put your papers inside.

• Academic papers and projects
• Certificates from conferences or short courses
• Cover letter
• Criminal background check
• CV
• Degree
• DVD of you teaching
• Lesson plans and materials you created
• Letters of recommendation
• List of conferences and workshops given / attended
• List of publications and summary of each publication
• List of textbooks you've taught with
• Observations by other teachers or admin
• Evaluations done by admin
• Evaluations done by students
• Evaluations done by other teachers
• Photocopy of your passport
• Photos of you teaching
• Students' work
• Syllabi
• Teaching philosophy (discuss language learning and teaching)
• TEFL certificate, such as CCELT or the one through the University of Toronto
• Transcripts

Disclaimer:

• Please join my Patreon page
• I use affiliate links. I may earn a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on links. Read more at my FTC Disclosure and Privacy Policy Statement

Teaching Abroad, Perks, and the Cost of Living

Updated 15 February 2012

When considering teaching abroad, remember that salary isn't the only thing to consider. Here's an example of what defines a good salary in Amsterdam.

Freebies

• When you don't have an item to pay for such as a car.
• Medical Insurance
• Free housing or housing allowance
• Utilities allowance
• Free internet
• Free meals /meal allowance
• Transportation allowance
• Computer and printer provided
• No taxes or lower taxes. Here's information for Americans.
• Grants. There are grants for people who work abroad such as the Christianson Grant.

Perks and Benefits

• Pension plan
• Chance for advancement / pay rise
• Flight reimbursement or a travel allowance
• Few teaching hours
• Chance to earn more by teaching private classes.
• More free time
• Longer vacation
• Chance to travel to other nearby countries
• Overtime

The Cost of Living
Going out to eat back home might cost you at least $20 plus tip. In other countries you can get a nice meal for less than $5 and no tip is required. Things, such as transport, movies, going out to drink, or going to a spa might be significantly cheaper. In fact many people enjoy their lives much more overseas even though they are getting a lower salary because they are able to afford luxuries more often.

When you add up the freebies, perks and benefits you might be pleasantly surprised to see that teaching overseas is often more lucrative than staying at home and chance are you'll enjoy your life more. Many people use their time overseas to pay off debt and save money for retirement while still having a good time.

Disclaimer:

• Please join my Patreon page
• I use affiliate links. I may earn a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on links. Read more at my FTC Disclosure and Privacy Policy Statement

Are You Ready to Teach English Abroad?

Updated 7 February 2012

In some countries going abroad is a part of life. For example, in New Zealand, people between the ages of 16-25 often go abroad for the Big OE (overseas experience). Some come back and some don't. If going abroad to teach English sounds like something you'd like to do check out the info below as well as 30 days to move abroad.

Going abroad has many benefits: you'll learn how to solve problems, be tolerant of different cultures and customs, be flexible, adapt, accept the unknown, learn another language, and many other things such as those International Schools Resource wrote about in things you can learn while teaching overseas.

Do You Have What It Takes to Teach English Abroad?
While there are many reasons to teach English abroad here are the top reasons NOT to teach abroad. Be sure to check out these questions you should consider before teaching English abroad, read what Expat Guy says, and find out what makes a good TEFL teacher. There are certain characteristics that you need if you're going to live abroad such as the ones listed below. If you're serious about teaching English abroad read all about teaching English abroad.

• Adaptable
• Adventurous
• Constructive criticism
• Creativite
• Cultural appreciation
• Easy-going
• Empathy
• Energetic
• Flexibile
• Focused on creating good lesson plans
• Goal orientated
• Humourous
• Independent
• Knowledgeable
• Language skills
• Optimistic
• Organised
• Passionate about teaching
• People skills
• Perspectives have changed
• Professional development
• Punctual
• Self sufficient
• Team player
• Tolerant
• Well-travelling
• Worldly view

Culture Shock
Your attitude is just as important as your teaching ability. If an employer doesn’t think that you will be able to overcome culture shock they may not hire you. Culture shock is a normal part of moving abroad. Everyone suffers from culture shock but those who don’t end up overcoming it often end up breaking contract and going home. Make sure you're prepared so that it doesn't happen to you.

Disclaimer:

• Please join my Patreon page
• I use affiliate links. I may earn a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on links. Read more at my FTC Disclosure and Privacy Policy Statement

Cold Calling to Get Teaching Jobs

Updated 30 June 2014

If you're going to do cold calling in hopes of getting a job you need to do your research. Make a list of at least 10 CEOs or employers that you'd like to contact. Online forums, such as Dave’s ESL Cafe are good places to learn about schools. If you are in country, then talk to other teachers and find out which schools are worth applying to. Here are some tips from the experts about cold calling.

If you’re only applying to schools that advertise positions you’re missing a lot of good jobs. When you apply to an advert you’re competing with lots of other teachers. By cold calling you’re taking a chance that the school might have an upcoming position that hasn’t been advertised yet and are beating other teachers to the punch.

It's best to go in person if possible. If you want to talk to someone it's much easier for them to say no if you send an email or call. Sometimes it's impossible to go in person, if that's the case, look at these tips from Cool Careers for Dummies by Marty Nemko PhD and Richard N. Bolles.

What to say when you call
One way of getting straight to the person in charge is calling before and after work. They often come in early and you won't risk getting a secretary. Calling from 7:30-9am or 5-7pm often works.

If you get a secretary try being less formal. Saying something like, "Hi, is John available?" might make the secretary think that you're a friend or family member and put you right through. You could also say, "I could really use your help." This statement empowers them and helps turn even the strictest secretaries. Using humour may help as well, "This might be one of the wierder calls you've gotten." could make them crack a smile or even tell you about some of the weird calls they've gotten.

When you do get through to the person you want to talk to be enthusiastic. The fact that you're calling them and asking them for an opportunity means that you're a go-getter. Most people who have positions of power have also taken risks and admire people who do so. Try saying "Someone must have given you your first chance and I'm looking for someone to give me mine." You could also offer to work for free. After all, you'd probably learn more from them than a college course and the college would charge you to study with them. They might even offer you a job afterwards.

If they can't help you out, then ask them if they could recommend someone who could help you. Whether or not they give you the contact details, thank them anyways for their time. If you get a name, then call them and mention the person who gave you their name.


Emailing
Send a personalised letter of introduction and your CV. Keep in mind that you might not receive an answer, but the key factor to remember is that you are making contact. You might try calling or arranging a meeting with the director as well. Here are some sample networking emails you might be interested in.

Follow Up
Send another email or call them. If they don’t have any vacancies now or in the near future ask to be notified when vacancies do arise.

Disclaimer:

• Please join my Patreon page
• I use affiliate links. I may earn a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on links. Read more at my FTC Disclosure and Privacy Policy Statement

Learning the Local Lingo while Teaching EFL

Updated 22 January 2012

This is part 2 of learning the local lingo and is guest post written by James Zerfoss.

Some people teach ESL* because they would like to learn the local language. This is a great opportunity for many native English speakers. The one drawback is that you will be spending four or five hours a day teaching English. That means that you will be required to speak English during those hours. Furthermore it will likely put you in a community of English speakers. I think this is one major determining factor as to how well students acquire a foreign language. There are lots of tips for learning a foreign language.

I am currently attending a university in Taipei every morning to learn Mandarin and working as an English teacher in the afternoon. The one major obstacle I see for most people, not only for native English speakers is that many people spend most of their free time speaking their native language with friends from their country.

Few students actually spend much of their free time speaking Mandarin. Of course I realize that learning the language of the host country is not everyone’s primary goal. Some people are just in another country to have fun and learn about the culture. For the more serious language learner you really need to distance yourself from the pack. You need to make local friends and try to spend your weekends with locals and not your fellow countrymen. You can do this by doing your favorite hobbies. You can join a hiking club, find local drinking partners, local musicians, or local skateboarders.


Language Partners
They can be helpful but I believe that many people in Asia have mixed reviews on language partners. Since their English is likely to be better than what you can speak their language sometimes they take advantage of the situation. I have not used language partners much in Taiwan but had language partners in South Korea since there were no Korean language courses available where I lived.

The one drawback to doing a language exchange is that if you are not serious about grammar you may really miss some important points. There are grammar aspects that taking a course that tests you on certain grammar can help with. That said, I know people who really liked grammar or who were translators that really hammered away at learning the grammar.

University Courses
In some countries it is possible to attend courses at a university language center in the morning and work at a language school in the afternoon. This will cost you more but it will guarantee that you listen to two or three hours of the local language a day. This is not an aspect to be overlooked. If you are a true beginner it will take you some time to make local friends that do not speak English.

Friends
One good way to learn the local language is to make friends. In some areas of the word this is easier to do than others not to mention that people all over the world are looking to practice their English. In some countries it can become a struggle to get people to stop speaking English to you. In my experience Asian countries are the best for getting opportunities to speak the local language. Part of this is that many Asians are not very confident when it comes to speaking English.

If you show that you are confident at speaking their language, they are likely to speak to you only in their language. That even happens when their English is better than you can speak their language. In some European countries the opposite happens. Some Europeans are so confident in speaking English that as soon as they hear your English accent they will try to speak to you in English.

Input
It is all about input. While speaking is great, if you really want to get good at a language you need input. You need to have people talk to you. You can also listening to music and watch DVDs. Another thing you can do is join a local club or take a class about something that you are interested in. I have met some Koreans and Chinese with great English who have never been to an English speaking country. How did they do it? Well they have been watching American movies for years, even decades. Not to mention that movies and friends will teach you local lingo that you are not likely to find in a book.

My Experience
I have studied German in Germany, Spanish in Peru, Korean in South Korea, and Mandarin in Taiwan. I learned spoken German by having a German girlfriend in Berlin. German was also my major in college. After studying German Literature for two years at the University of Delaware I moved to South Korea. I lived in the country side for one year and learned a lot of Korean from language exchanges and Korean friends. Later I lived in Gwangju and learned a lot of Korean from a good friend Tae-yung.

Now I have been living in Taiwan for over a year. I hope to study at Taiwan Normal University for the next two years and then take the American Foreign Service Test.

*I realise it should be EFL, however, many people use ESL when they're talking about EFL.

Disclaimer:

• Please join my Patreon page
• I use affiliate links. I may earn a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on links. Read more at my FTC Disclosure and Privacy Policy Statement

Online TEFL Certificates, Diplomas, Masters, and PhDs

Updated 6 April 2016

Why Study Online?
The US Department of Education has recently released a study that shows that students who study online perform better. If you're considering online education, do your research since some places will not accept distance degrees.

For example, the Ministry of Education in the UAE doesn't accept them but the Ministry of Higher Education does. This means that you can't teach K-12 with a distance degree but you can teach at university. While the Saudi government doesn't accept online degree, the SACM  often does. The Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission (SACM) requires a letter in a sealed envelope stating the method of instruction. In addition to Saudi, Kuwait, and Qatar also do not accept degrees that include coursework that was done online. Here's some info about teaching with an online degree in Saudi and Qatar as well as ways around the new laws.

If you need to get your foreign degree verified to work in the USA, Foreign Credits has an affordable service and it's the one I'll be using once we got back.  

Certificates and Diplomas

You can find information about TEFL Certificates, short courses, TEFL Diplomas, management diplomas, teacher training certificates, and qualified teaching status (QTS) / teaching licenses, check out this post. Below you will find a number of masters degrees. You can also find more at distance learning schools, affordable online schools, affordable colleges foundation, affordable online degrees, and education degree.

Master Programme Basics
Many people feel that 1 year programmes are inferior than 2 year programmes. However, you have to remember that it's quality, not quantity that matters. "If you factor in skills, such as project and time management, that are required to complete a British Masters within its tight timescale, judgements on quality based on a course's length appear shaky. (Masters of Europe, 2005)".

Be sure to consider how much time you will be expected to devote each week. It’s also worth asking about the graduates. If many people start a programme but few finish you might want to look at another school. There are a many programmes out there: online, on-campus, and blended learning (those that are a mix of the two).

Make sure that you select an accredited programme and ask about online support. There’s nothing like writing a paper and not being able to submit it because there’s a problem with the system. Your professors should be accomplished in the area they teach, have substantial teaching and training experience, as well as publications. Having an adviser who can answer questions is also good. Here is a google doc with info about some popular schools to get an online MA with.

Don’t go for the cheapest programme out there since you usually get what you pay for. If you’re a US citizen look at IEFC. Scholarships (such as those listed at GoodCall) and paying in installments might also be an option. Some universities (such as those in Asia) have been known to offer discounts simply because you're a foreigner. You can often transfer credits from another university, a certification course, or a diploma course (Cambridge ESOL has good info.) Other universities offer credits for proven work experience.

Master Degrees from Australia

• You can find universities in The Good Guides, Markogilvie, andGradschool.com.
• Here's a post about costs of MAs in Australia compared to those in the UK.
• Deakin University - MA of TESOL, or MA in Professional Education and Training, or MA in Teaching, or MA in Education, or MEd in Educational Leadership and Administration, or MA in Special Needs
• Macquire University - MA in Applied Linguistics
• Monash University - MA in Education
• University of New England - MA in Applied Linguistics
• University of Southern Queensland - MA in Applied Linguistics
• University of Tasmania - MA in Education with specialisations in: Professional Learning and School Improvement, Science / Mathematics, Online / ICT, Adult Learning, Global Education, Educational Leadership, Health / Well-being, Literacy, TESOL, and Education Research.
• University of Technology, Sydney - MA in TESOL / Applied Linguistics
• University of Wollongong - Master of Adult Education, Master of Educational Leadership, Master of Higher Education, Master of Information Technology in Education and Training, Master of Literacy Education, Master of TESOL, Master of Vocational Education and Training

Master Degrees from Canada

• You can find universities in Petersons and Grad School Finder
• Athabascau Univeristy - MA in Integrated Studies
• Trinity Western University - MA in TESOL
• University of Calgary - MA in Education Specialisations in Curriculum, Teaching and Learning, Educational Contexts, Educational Leadership, Higher Education Leadership, Educational Technology, Second Language Teaching. TESL, and Workplace and Adult Learning.
• University of Toronto - MEd in Second Language Education. They also have a TEFL cert.

Master Degrees from China

• Oregon-Hanyang - MA TESOL
• Lancaster University in China- Double degree with Lancaster and Shanghai Jiao Tong University - MA in Applied Linguistics.

Masters Degrees from Costa Rica

• Empresarial University of Costa Rica- MA in Education.

Masters Degrees from England

• Here's a post about costs of MAs in Australia compared to those in the UK.
• You can find universities in Education UK, GTTR, Prospects, and Gradschool.com.
• Aston - MSc in TESOL, or Teaching English for Specific Purposes, or Teaching English to Young Learners, or Educational Management or MSc in Applied Linguistics
• Charles Darwin University - MA in Education, MA in Applied Linguistics
• Lancaster University - MA in English Language or MA in TESOL or MA in Language Testing.
• Lancaster University in China. Double degree with Lancaster and Shanghai Jiao Tong University - MA in Applied Linguistics.
• Lancaster University in Hong Kong - MA in TESOL.
• IH London - Educational Management.
• Notting Hill College - MA in TEFL
• Open University - MA in Education
• Oxford Brookes University - MA in TESOL
• Sheffield Hallam University - MA in TESOL
• University of Birmingham - MA in TEFL or MA in Applied Linguistics
• University of Exeter - MEd, MSc in Educational Research, MA in Leadership
• University of Leicester - MA in TESOL and Applied Linguistics
• University of Liverpool, in Israel (TASP: Teaching and Studying Programmes)- MA in English Language Teaching (There has been some controversy about this degree so do your research carefully.)
• University of London - MA in TESOL.
• University of London - MA in TESOL
• University of Manchester - MA in TESOL
• University of Nottingham - MA in Applied Linguistics and English Language Teaching
• University of Portsmouth - MA in Applied Linguistics and TESOL
• University of Reading - MA in Applied Linguistics, or MA (Res) in Applied Linguistics, or MA in English Language Teaching.
• University of Sunderland - MA in TESOL, MA in International Education, MA in Education.
• University of York - MA in Teaching English to Young Learners

Masters Degrees from Hong Kong

• Lancaster University - MA in TESOL.

Masters Degrees from Ireland

• Here's a post about costs of MAs in Australia compared to those in the UK.
• You can find universities in HEA, Postgrad, or CAO

Master Degrees from Israel

• Tel Aviv University - MA TESOL
• University of Haifa - MA TEFL
• University of Liverpool, in Israel (TASP: Teaching and Studying Programmes)- MA in English Language Teaching (There has been some controversy about this degree so do your research carefully.)

Masters Degree from Japan

• Colombia University - MA in TESOL
• Temple University - MSEd in TESOL

Masters Degrees from Korea

• The ebooks Coming to Korea and Living in Korea have lots of good info.
• Catholic University of Daegu - MA in TESOL. They have agreements with the University of Pennslyvania, University of Central Oklahoma, Oklahoma City University, State University of New York, Potsdam.
• Daegu Haany University - MA in TESOL
• Dankook University - MA in TEFL
• Dongduk University - MA in TESOL
• Korea University Graduate School of International Studies -  MA in International Studies
• Hanyang-Oregon - MA TESOL
• Seoul National University of Education - MA in TESOL.
• Sookmyung University - MA in TEFL
• Sungkyunkwan University with Georgetown - MA TESOL
• Woosong University - MA in TESOL-MALL. They have a dual degree option with St. Cloud State in Minnesota.

Masters Degrees from Mexico

• Universidad de las Americas Puebla - MA in Teaching

Masters Degrees from New Zealand

• You can find universities in Kiwi Careers
• Massey University - MA in Literacy Education, MEd, MEd in Educational Leadership
• University of Auckland - MEd in TESOL
• Victoria University - MA in TESOL or MA in Applied Linguisitics

Masters Degrees from Peru

• FUNIBER - MA in TEFL. FUNIBER has a consortium with the University of Piura, Peru and the University of Jaen, Spain.

Masters Degrees from Saudi Arabia

• School for International Training - teaching fellowship with Saudi INTERLINK Language Center at Al Yamamah University (YU) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. It consists of two summers of full-time study in Vermont and two academic years of full-time teaching at YU. You get a salary, housing, and discounted tuition. More details can be found at "teaching fellowships"at Interlink.

Masters Degrees from Scotland

• Here's a post about costs of MAs in Australia compared to those in the UK.
• You can find universities in Scotland Gov't
• University of Dundee - MA in Education
• University of Edinburgh - Med in TESOL
• University of St Andrews - MLitt

Masters Degrees from South Africa

• Stellenbosch University - MA in Linguistics
• UNISA - Tehy offer many courses. Here are just a few. MEd. in Education Management, MA in Education Management with dissertation, MA in Linguistics, MA in Linguistics and Translation Studies, MA in Applied Linguistics, MA in Sociolinguistics, MA in TESOL, MA in Curriculum Studies, MA in Comparative and International Education, MA in Early Childhood Development.

Masters Degree from Spain

• FUNIBER - MA in TEFL. FUNIBER has a consortium with the University of Piura, Peru and the University of Jaen, Spain.

Masters Degrees from Thailand

• Papay University - MA in TESOL or MA in Linguistics. This degree is only offered on-campus.

Masters Degrees from Turkey

• Bilkent University - They have 4 MAs: MA in Curriculum and Instruction with Teaching Cert, MA in Curriculum and Instruction, MA in Educational Management, MA in TEFL

Masters Degrees from the United States

• There are many, many universities in the USA; below are just a couple programmes. MA TESOL, 50 States, Graduate Guide, ELearners, My College Guide, Petersons, and Gradschool.com also have good info. Make sure the school isn't blacklisted.
• American College of Education - MA in Education
• American Intercontinental University (AIU) - MEd in Education
• American Military University - MEd Teaching.
• American Public University - MEd in TESOL, MEd in Education Administration and Supervision, MEd in Guidance and Counseling, MEd in Elementary Education, MEd in Gifted Education, MEd in Instructional Leadership, MEd in Reading and Literacy, MEd in Secondary Social Studies, MEd in Special Education,
• American University - MA in TESOL.
• Anaheim - MA in TESOL
• Arizona State University - MA in Bilingual Education, MA in ESL, MEd in Early Childhood Education, MEd in Educational Administration and Supervision, MEd in Board Certification for Behavioral Analyst Focus, MEd-Educational Administration (Principal, PreK-12), MEd in Secondary Education, MEd in Teaching and Learning, Autism Spectrum Focus, MEd in Elementary Education.
• Ashford University - MA in Teaching and Learning with Technology and MA in Education
• Azusa Pacific University - MA in TESOL, MA in TESOL while in Thailand
• Buffalo State - MS in Adult Education
• Columbia International University - MA in TEFL/Intercultural Studies or MEd in Curriculum/Instruction or MEd in Educational Administration
• Concordia University Irvine - MEd Curriculum and Instruction
• Concordia University Portland - MEd in Educational Leadership, MEd in Curriculum and Instruction (concentrations in Environmental Education, Science K-8, Career and Technical Education, elearning/Technology Education, Mathematics K-8, Reading, The Inclusive Classroom, Methods and Curriculum, and ESOL).
• Dominican University - Master of Arts in Education in English as a Second Language
• Drexel University - MSc in Math, MSc in Human Resources, MSc in Learning Technologies, MSc in Teaching / Learning / Curriculum, MSc in Educational Administration, MSc in Global and International Education, Higher Education, MA in Science of Instruction, MSc in Special Education.
• Emporia State University - MA in TESOL
• Fort Hays State University - MA of Liberal Arts with a concentration in ESOL, MSc in Education with a concentration in ESOL
• Framingham State College - MA in TESL or MA in Special Education or MA in International Teaching. Here's the website for the MA in TESL for those living in Korea
• Georgetown with Sungkyunkwan University - MA TESOL
• George Washington University - MEd
• Grand Canyon University - MEd in TESOL
• Harvard University - ALM, Master of Liberal Arts
• Hamline University - MA in Education and MA in ESL.
• Indiana University - MA in English Education, Foreign or Second Language Education, or Literacy / Reading Education
• Kaplan University - MS in Educational Psychology, MS in Education, MA in Teaching - Nationwide, MS in Education in Instructional Technology, MS in Higher Education, MA in Teaching - Iowa Certification 
• Lincoln Christian - MA in TESOL
• Mercy College - MS in TESOL
• Montana State - MEd in Curriculum and Instruction and MEd in Educational Leadership
• Northern Arizona University - MEd in Bilingual / Multicultural Education
• Northwestern University State Louisiana - MA in Education, MA in English
• New School - MA in TESOL
• Oregon - Hanyang Universities - MA TESOL
• Penn State - MEd in Curriculum and Instruction Children's Literature, MEd in Instructional Systems, MEd in Adult Education, MEd in Curriculum and Instruction Teacher Leadership, MEd in Earth Sciences
• Post University - MEd in TESOL, MEd Higher Educational Administration, MEd in Instructional Design and Technology, MED in Online Teaching, MEd in Teaching and Learning 
• Saint Leo University - MEd Reading, MEd Educational Leadership, MEd Exceptional Student Education, MEd Instructional Leadership
• School for International Training - MA in International Education, MA in Teaching, MA in TESL, MA in TESL in Public Schools. SIT also has a teaching fellowship arrangement Al Yamamah University (YU) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
• Scranton University School of Education – MS in Education with an emphasis in Curriculum and Instruction or Educational Administration
• Shenadoah University - MA in TESOL
• St. Cloud State University - MA in TESL, licensure in TESL (scroll down)
• SUNY at Albany - MS in Curriculum Development and Instructional Technology and MS in Childhood Education.
• Troy University- Master in Postsecondary Education, Counseling and Psychology, Adult Education.
• St. Cloud State in Minnesota. has a dual degree programme with Woosong University - MA in TESOL-MALL.
• University of Cincinnati - MA in TESOL, MEd in Educational Leadership, MEd in Special Education
• University of Georgia - MEd.
• University of Maryland University College (UMUC) - MA in Teaching, MA of Distance Education and E-learning, MA in Instructional Technology
• University of Massachusetts Boston - MA in Applied Linguistics
• University of Missouri - MA in TESOL, MA in Early Childhood Education.
• University of Nebraska-Lincoln - MA and MEd in Early Childhood Special Education, MA in Educational Administration, MAT Mathematics, MA and MEd in Special Education, MEd in Educational Administration, MAS Science.
• University of Southern California - MA in Teaching.
• Valdosta State University (VSU) - MEd in Curriculum and Instruction in Accomplished Teaching, MAT in Deaf and Hard of Hearing Education, MEd in Early Childhood Education, MA in English Studies for Language Arts Teachers, MEd in Health and Physical Education, MEd Middle Grades Education Math and Science, MAT Special Education General Curriculum, MAT Special Education Adapted Curriculum.
• Webster - They have agreements with universities all over the world. So you might be able to find a programme.
• Western Governs University (WGU) - They have a number of MA and MEd programmes.
• Western New Mexico University - MA in Interdisciplinary Studies
• Wheaton College - MA in TESOL.

Masters Degrees from Wales

• Here's a post about costs of MAs in Australia compared to those in the UK.
• Bangor University - MA in Linguistics
• Swansea University - MA TEFL

Distance PhD / EdD Programmes can be found at this post.

Disclaimer:

• Please join my Patreon page
• I use affiliate links. I may earn a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on links. Read more at my FTC Disclosure and Privacy Policy Statement

Warning Signs of Bad Schools

Updated 15 November 2012

Here are some warning signs I've heard of over the years. You might also want to look at ISR's article called Warning Signs that Tell You Not to Take the Job.

Boss

• Everyone's afraid of the boss. Respect is one thing; fear is another.
• Threats or sexual harassment. Threatening to fire you for no reason is bad enough. If you're on a tourist visa and you want to quit and they threaten to go to immigrations. Don't put up with sexual harassment either.
• Same advert week after week. If you see them advertising again and again it’s probably because they can’t get or keep teachers.
• Living with your boss. Don’t live in the same apartment as your boss.

Classes

• Classes in your house. The employer needs to provide space for lessons.
• Mixed level classes. Most classes are mixed levels, but if it's taken to the extreme you need to be careful. If you have people with basic English thrown in with very advanced students that's not good.
• Mandatory events. Every once in a while is ok but when it becomes a habit that means they’re trying to get you to teach for free.
• No material. They want you to create everything and don't follow have any structure whatsoever.
• Lots of changes. Tons of cancelled classes, changed times, salary differences, and so on.
• Lots of unpaid training and meetings. Some are ok but be aware of those that have excessive unpaid training and meetings.

Contract

• Visa promises they can't keep. If they promise you a visa make sure you get one.
• Contract penalties. Don’t sign a contract that has lots of penalties when you quit or one that only has info about how they can let you go but nothing about how you can quit.

Money: Warning Signs

• Bank accounts. They want to use your bank account or have you open a new one and give them the info.
• Pressure. Some places try to convince you that you’ll never find another job anywhere else.
• Late pay. Talk to the teachers and ask if they get paid on time.
• No receipts. Even if you're working on a tourist visa you should sign something.
• Salary’s vague. You should be told exactly how much you’ll make.
• Paying for copies. They should make them for you.

School

• There's no sign out front. A school should prominently display their name outside.
• Bad first impressions. Peeling paint, dilapidated furniture, or a bad neighbourhood aren't good signs.
• Learn English in 6 months. While some people can learn English that quickly the majority of people can't.
• Dangerous places. The institute is located in a bad neighbourhood or they want to you to teach classes in a bad neighbourhood.

Teachers

• Lots of new teachers. If most of the teachers have been there for less than three months, that's not very good.
• Disgruntle teachers. If everyone's complaining it says something about the school.
• No foreign teachers. Not always a warning sign, but I'd rather work at a school that has (had) a foreign teacher.

Signs That You're Being Scammed

• Pay up. If you're asked to pay money, it's probably a scam.You might also want to look at Scam.com and Scam Warners.
• Get rich quick. If it sounds too good to be true it probably is. End of story.
• Rich African. Another warning sign.
• Dead spouse. If the person is a recent widow / widower who needs you to take care of their children. Be very careful.
• Western Union, Moneygram, etc. If they require you to accept or send money this way it's usually a scam. Visa fees are paid to the embassy, immigration fees are paid directly to immigration, and travel fees are paid to the travel agent or airlines.
• Cheques. The schools asks you to write, mail, or cash a cheque on their behalf.
• Parcels and packages. They want you to accept or send parcels or packages. NEVER do this. You never know what could be in the package and you could end up in a local jail.
• Dealing with individuals. When dealing directly with a person, rather than a school you have to be extra careful. While it's true that people often hire tutors or au pairs, about 99.99% of the time they go through agencies. Go through an agency. You might have to pay a fee but it will be worth the peace of mind.

Disclaimer:

• Please join my Patreon page
• I use affiliate links. I may earn a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on links. Read more at my FTC Disclosure and Privacy Policy Statement

How to Deal with Job Burnout

Updated 18 February 2012

Are You Suffering from Job Burnout?

• Do you dread going to work?
• Do you feel sad or depressed on a Sunday?
• Do you regularly feel exhausted at work?
• Do you find yourself getting bored at work?
• Do you find yourself hating things that you used to enjoy?
• Do you find yourself criticizing your job, boss, or place of work?
• Do you find yourself annoyed by your co-workers?
• Is your personal life being affected by your feelings about work?
• Do you find yourself envious of people who are happy at their job?
• Do you now care less than you before about doing a good job?

Reasons for Job Burnout

• Tedious jobs
• Difficult jobs or bosses
• No recognition for what you do.
• Changes at work (such as restructuring or new management)
• Changes in your life, such as your interests, goals, or values.
• Not having your skills and abilities used at work.

Fixing / Avoiding Job Burnout

• Make changes. You might need to change your job or even your career. You may consider taking some time off and travel.
• Take care of your body: Eat healthy food and drink water. Avoid sugar, junk food, and caffeine. Get enough sleep and go to the doctor for annual exams.
• Take time out: Do something that you enjoy, whether it’s reading a book, going shopping, out to a movie, for a walk in the part, or just doing nothing. Travelling around the world is also possible, especially now with budget travel options.
• Make goals: List what you want to accomplish both professionally and personally. Take steps to reach those goals.
• Talk to people: This is a great way to relax or vent.
• Know your strengths and weaknesses: It will make your job easier.
• Spend time with friends and family: Invest in your friendships and relationships.
• Learn more about job burnout and how to overcome it. 

Disclaimer:

• Please join my Patreon page
• I use affiliate links. I may earn a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on links. Read more at my FTC Disclosure and Privacy Policy Statement