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Teaching English as a second language can be a great career move.  Especially if you are interested in traveling to other countries.  However, there are some things you need to be aware of.  For example, not every TESL (sometimes referred to as TESOL) program is the same.  There are a lot of online programs that do not provide the necessary credentials.  The best thing a person can do is to check with his or her local college to see if there is a program offered.  For instance, Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville, offers several options.  For the undergraduate student, there is a minor in TESL.  However, if you already have a degree, you could apply for one of three graduate level programs.  The easiest is a Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in TESL.  For more on the programs offered at SIUE, check out the Department of English website at: SIUE-TESL. 

The next step, before deciding on what level of education you want to go for, is to identify some of the places you want to teach.  Each country has its own criteria for accepting ESL teachers/instructors.  Even within a country, there are different parameters for different positions.  Some employers will offer a position to someone who is simply a native speaker of English.  While others may require a masters degree.  While there are some classes that could benefit an ESL teacher, taking one or two courses for experience is far cheaper than getting a degree. 

If you want more information, please visit one of the links below.  I have also provided a link for teaching jobs in Thailand, as an example. 

Links:
Make a Difference
    Gives a decent overview of Teaching English as a Second Language.
            However, it also has links for other fields of teaching.  Browse
            through and check out the various specialties to see if any peak
            your interest.  There is also basic pay information.

English as a Second Language
    This site gives detailed lesson plans for each level of TESL education.
            Don't get distracted by the random adds for TESL certification. 

Educational Ideas for TESL
    This site is sponsored by the United States Department of State.  As with the
            previous link, it has a great list of ESL lesson materials to aid both the
            instructor and the student. 

Thailand TESL Job Opportunities
    This is a searchable database for current ESL teaching positions in Thailand. 
            However, it is not exhaustive.  No list ever is.  If you are looking for a
            specific area or position that is not listed in your search, contact the
            administration of interest with your inquiry.