English as a Second Language, as a Career

English remains the language of business worldwide. Therefore, people who do not know English often find themselves at an economic disadvantage.
People who teach English as a second language (ESL) are performing a great service by opening the door to the English-speaking business world to people who were formerly excluded. More than that, these teachers may build themselves a career by helping other people.
ESL program degrees can be obtained through online education. Typical coursework for this online degree will include classes on the history of ESL, basic and advanced language teaching techniques, and overviews of specific federal and state ESL programs.

Career Options for Teaching ESL

Graduates who have earned an online degree in an ESL program often work in adult education. America is a country of immigrants, and there are many people who view knowledge of English as a prerequisite for full participation in the U.S. economy.
Because adults attend these classes by choice and are eager to learn, ESL teachers do not have to deal with the behavioral problems that sometimes affect classrooms filled with younger people. The only students present are the ones who want to be there. This reduces stress.
So-called remedial education programs, such as working with struggling younger students, are another area of opportunity for ESL program degree holders. Studies have shown that insufficient command of the English language is a major barrier to academic success.
Many ESL teachers work part-time to supplement other income or as a way to give back to the community.

Employment Outlook for ESL Teachers

Teachers of English as a second language enjoy definite non-tangible rewards--for example, seeing a parent speaking with her child in English for the first time--but they also get paid for their work. The median annual wage for adult education teachers was $43, 910 in 2006.
Many of these jobs are federally funded.
Source:
Bureau of Labor Statistics

Andrew Freiburghouse is a writer and businessman. As a partner at Los Angeles tax preparation firm Pronto Income Tax of California, Inc., Andrew learned the fine art of growing a small business into a not-so-small business. Currently, Andrew lives in Brooklyn, NY.