Do I Need a Degree to Teach English in Prague?

By Alice Nichols

If you’re considering teaching English in Prague, you may be wondering if you need a degree to do so. The answer isn’t a simple yes or no, as it depends on a few factors.

What type of teaching job are you looking for?

If you’re interested in teaching at a public school or university, then yes, you’ll likely need a degree. Most institutions require their teachers to have at least a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as education, linguistics, or English. This is because they want their teachers to have the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively teach students.

However, if you’re looking to teach English as a foreign language (TEFL) at a private language school or as a private tutor, then having a degree may not be required. While having one can certainly help your chances of getting hired and potentially increase your salary, many language schools only require TEFL certification.

What is TEFL certification?

TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language. Getting certified means that you’ve taken courses that have prepared you to teach English to non-native speakers. There are various types of TEFL certifications available, ranging from online courses to in-person courses that can take several weeks or months to complete.

  • Online courses: These are typically the most affordable option and can be completed at your own pace.
  • In-person courses: These can vary in length from two weeks to several months and can be more expensive but offer more hands-on experience.
  • Certifications from universities: Some universities offer TEFL certification programs which can be more rigorous and provide more credibility.

So should I get certified?

While it may not be required for all teaching jobs in Prague, getting TEFL certified can certainly give you a competitive edge. It shows potential employers that you’re serious about teaching and have taken the necessary steps to prepare yourself for the job.

Additional considerations

While having a degree or TEFL certification can certainly help your chances of landing a teaching job in Prague, there are other factors to consider as well. These include:

  • Visa requirements: Depending on your citizenship and the length of your stay, you may need to obtain a visa before teaching in Prague.
  • Experience: While not always required, having prior teaching experience can certainly help your chances of getting hired.
  • Cultural differences: Teaching in a foreign country can come with its own set of challenges, so it’s important to be open-minded and adaptable.

In conclusion

While you may not necessarily need a degree to teach English in Prague, having one can certainly increase your chances of getting hired at certain institutions. However, if you’re interested in teaching at private language schools or as a private tutor, then getting TEFL certified is likely sufficient. Regardless of your qualifications, it’s important to do your research and be prepared for the unique challenges that come with teaching English as a foreign language in a new country.