Teach English as a Second Language

Teach English as a Second Language

Do you enjoy helping others and interacting with people from other cultures?

Add a UFV Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) certificate to your bachelor's degree to learn how to teach English to non-native speakers and take advantage of exciting teaching opportunities both at home and abroad.

All UFV TESL courses are offered online, so you can take classes even if you are working or finishing your degree. You can complete the Teaching English as a Second Language courses in two semesters. Four classroom sessions per semester — scheduled in early evenings and Saturdays and available through video conferencing for distance students — allow time for  teaching practice and face-to-face interaction with experienced faculty who can provide actionable feedback.

As part of the certificate, you also have the opportunity to get valuable teaching practice during a supervised practicum.

When you graduate from the UFV TESL certificate program, you are eligible to apply for the TESL Canada Professional Certificate Standard Two, which is one of the top levels awarded by TESL Canada.

Career Outlook for TESL

Worldwide, the latest research from the British Council predicts that the number of people actively learning English around the world is set to exceed 1.9 billion by 2020. Because English is the language of commerce, many countries offer English classes both in schools and professional settings. Certification from TESL Canada is regarded highly in nations such as Korea, China, or Japan, and can help you secure contract positions with higher pay.

In British Columbia, there is a demand for ESL teachers to help new immigrants learn English. According to WelcomeBC, more than 40,000 immigrants arrive in BC each year, many of them in the larger urban centres of the province. In addition, more than 150,000 foreign students come to B.C. each year, many to study English.

ESL teachers find jobs in private and public schools, including colleges, high schools, and elementary schools. Employment opportunities also exist in community and friendship centres that welcome immigrants.