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Apply Now for a Work, Intern, or Volunteer Program
Getting Started
Why teach English abroad?—Learn more about how teaching English abroad can benefit you
Ways to Find a Teaching English Position
Placement Programs
- Paid and volunteer positions
- Pre-determined placements and support from the program provider
- Paid positions through established government programs
- Often do not require previous experience but may be more competitive than other options
- Research available positions and contact the English school directly
- Negotiate the terms of your contract
Gain Teaching Experience Before You Go Abroad
Volunteer in Your Community
One useful way to gain experiece before teaching abroad is by volunteering in your community. Doing so can help you find out if you enjoy teaching English, build your resume, and develop effective teaching skills. It can also be a cost-effective alternative for those who do not plan to obtain TEFL certification.
The Minnesota Literacy Council—Offers an excellent training session for English as a Second Language (ESL) tutors and places them with local schools and organizations
Schools and organizations in the Twin Cities—Places in the area that accept part-time volunteer teacher
TESL 3001: Basics in Teaching English as a Second Language (ESL)
Another option is to take a course at the University of Minnesota. TESL 3001: Basics in Teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) provides provides a basic orientation to current theories, methods and techniques of ESL instruction. A service-learning component involves an internship at a school or agency teaching English. The course is one of four required classes for the undergraduate minor in English as a Second Language.
For more information on the course click here.
Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) Certificate
TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) and TESL (Teaching English as a Second Language) certification courses provide valuable training that can make your teaching experience more enjoyable for you and your students. A good course gives you the tools necessary to create lesson plans and communicate effectively with students. For more information click here.
Local & Regional Certicate Programs:
- University of Minnesota's TESL Certificate Program—Undergraduate ESL Minor
- Hamline University, St. Paul, MN
- Midwest Teachers Training Program, Madison, WI
TEFL Certificate Abroad Program:
- Global Experiences offers the TEFL Certificate Course in several locations around the world. University of Minnesota students can receive a $100 discount on the program fee by contacting Emelee Volden before applying to Global Experiences.
Useful Resources
- Online resources—Provide useful information such as advice on certification and schools, job listings, and lesson plans
- Printed resources—Several titles available for use in the Learning Abroad Center library
Health & Safety
Maintaining proper health insurance coverage while abroad is an important part of pre-departure planning. The University of Minnesota requires that all students participating in a work, intern, or volunteer program purchase CISI international health insurance through the Learning Abroad Center and that all students fill out and return a release and waiver form (OGC-SC246). See the Health and Safety section to find more information about these policies and to download the required forms.
Students who will be participating in a work, intern, or volunteer program after they graduate from the University of Minnesota may purchase a different type of international health insurance (ISIS), which also provides comprehensive coverage at an affordable price. See the Travel Products section for more information including rates, coverage, and an application form.
Last modified on June 4, 2009 |