About the Program
While the majority of TEFL Certificate programs are offered as post-baccalaureate programs, the TEFL Certificate at UMD can be completed during your undergraduate studies. If you think you might want to travel overseas after graduation, you should consider completing this 12-credit certificate program. Countries around the world are looking for fluent English speakers like you to teach English and share your culture.
If you have the travel bug, then the TEFL Certificate is your ticket to adventure: working as an English as a Foreign Language teacher is a great way to fund your travels. Regardless of whether you want to teach as a long-term career, while teaching overseas you will also gain marketable skills such as increased resilience, adaptability, problem-solving, and interpersonal communication skills.
Finding a TEFL Job
With your TEFL Certificate and undergraduate degree in hand, you are ready to find a job. The TESOL International Association maintains a list of available job postings. You may also be interested in applying for government-sponsored programs to teach abroad. These programs typically help to coordinate housing and provide orientations for new teachers.
The following list of government-sponsored programs might help you in your search of a teaching program. Please note that the University of Minnesota Duluth is not affiliated with any of these programs and does not maintain control over the content presented on their websites.
Asia
Japan - Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Program USA
- Application Period: Typically October to November
- Special Perk: Airfare to/from Japan is covered!
Eastern Europe
Georgia- Teach and Learn with Georgia (TLG)
- Application Period: Before July
- Special Perk: Co-teach with local foreign language teachers. Proficiency in Georgian is not required.
South America
Chile - English Opens Doors Program (EODP)
- Application Period: Throughout the Year
- Special Perk: The program arranges accommodations with a host family and offers a modest volunteer stipend. No program fees!
Western Europe
France - Teaching Assistant Program in France (TAPIF)
- Application Period: Typically October to January
- Special Perk: Selected universities in the United States, including the University of Minnesota, have partnered with TAPIF to provide scholarships for TAPIF alumni pursuing graduate studies.
Spain - North American Language and Culture Assistants in Spain
- Application Period: Typically January to April
- Special Perk: With a work schedule of 12 to 16 hours a week, you will have plenty of time to explore Europe.
Worldwide Placements
Fulbright English Teaching Assistants (ETA)
- Application Period: Typically April to October
- Special Perk: Placements range from kindergarten to university-level classrooms.
Private Recruiting Organizations
English First
Teach Away
University of Northern Iowa (UNI) Overseas Placement Service for Educators (for certified K-12 educators)
- UNI hosts an annual Overseas Recruiting Fair in February where you can network, interview, and get hired on the spot to work at an American international school.Â
Securing a Contract
No matter where you apply, it is recommended that you secure a detailed contract before accepting a position. Take note of the requirements within the contract and any repercussions for not fulfilling these requirements. For example, you may have your visa revoked if you end your contract early. Beware of visa scams or excessive placement costs. If possible, ask to speak to current employees before accepting a position.