If you do a quick Google search for ‘TEFL certification’ you are sure to find a wide range of course options. From short-format introductory courses, right the way through to high-end qualifications such as diplomas and degrees. When faced with this dazzling array of potential qualifications, how do you decide which is the right choice for you?
Before you make a decision it is a good idea to do a little bit of research into the destination where you plan to work, as some countries have certain requirements when applying for work permits or visas. In other areas where there are a lot of teachers in contention for each vacant position, a high-end qualification or extra specialist teaching certificate could make all the difference. Below we take a look at some of the most common types of TEFL certification and who they are primarily aimed at.
Standard level TEFL certification
This level of qualification is aimed at trainees who are looking to start a new career as an English language teacher at home, online or overseas. It is also suitable for anyone who wants to earn extra money as a freelance English tutor while traveling the world or while working in another main job. Unlike the previously mentioned introductory courses, this level of qualification includes all the basic knowledge and skills required by an English language teacher, no matter what environment they are looking to work in. With a standard level course you will be able to confidently apply for well-paid jobs in countries all over the world.
At ITTT we have a very popular 120-hour TEFL certification course that has set thousands of first-time teachers on the road towards a new career teaching English.
Advanced level TEFL certification
Although a standard level TEFL course is enough to apply for most mainstream teaching jobs, some high-end positions will require a more advanced qualification. If you have been working in a teaching job for a year or two and feel the time is right to step up to a management level position, then a Diploma in TEFL/TESOL will probably be necessary to convince employers that you have the required understanding of the TEFL industry. With an advanced level certificate under your belt you will be in a great position to apply for the vast majority of teaching jobs worldwide, including management positions and jobs within colleges and universities.
At ITTT we provide a highly respected, advanced level 370-hour Diploma in TESOL course. This option also includes an initial 120-hour TEFL course, so it is open to anyone, regardless of their previous teaching experience.
Specialized TEFL courses
Specialist courses are another great option if you want to add additional qualifications to your initial TEFL certificate. Certain areas of TEFL such as teaching online, teaching business related English, and teaching young learners, all require a range of unique skills if you want to achieve the very best results for your students. In some countries teaching business English is a big deal and anyone with a specialized qualification will be well placed when applying for jobs. Equally, young learners form a large percentage of all English classes in some countries. If you intend to work in one of these areas, an additional young learners certificate can make a big difference to your earning potential.
If you want to take advantage of the recent boom in online learning and you like the idea of being able to work from home, then specialized training in this type of teaching environment is highly recommended. Although a standard TEFL course will provide enough knowledge to allow you to apply for online teaching jobs, a specialized qualification will help you to stand out from the crowd and secure a good position in this crowded job market.
At ITTT we offer specialized TEFL courses in teaching English to young learners (CTEYL), teaching business English (CTBE), and teaching English online (CTEO). These courses can be taken as part of our great value course packages:
- The 170-hour TEFL certification course with online specialization
- The 220-hour Master Package
- The 550-hour Expert Package
