See the world... teach English abroad! (TEFL)

The Certificate Program in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) is an intensive program designed to provide those with little or no teaching experience the practical teaching skills and confidence to transition into a new international adventure with ease.

For almost 20 years, the Teaching English as a Foreign Language Academy has prepared thousands of individuals to pursue careers as English as a Foreign Language teachers. Our expertise extends into developing teacher training programs delivered both at UC Irvine and abroad for the Ministries of Education in Japan, South Korea, France, and Chile.

Be a part of the demand for qualified English teachers around the world, open doors to diverse professional career opportunities, and expand your worldview while living abroad!

Program Benefits

• Benefit from UC-quality curriculum with approximately 200 hours of specialized intensive training
• Learn from highly-qualified teacher trainers; many of whom have lived and taught abroad
• Learn to successfully transition to a new culture
• Job referral assistance available for qualified candidates!
• Post-program staff support

Certificate Requirements

• A certificate is awarded upon completion of eight courses
• Submission of a completed application
• Minimum junior/senior university standing or above (no teaching experience required)
• Official university transcripts
• Minimum 600 TOEFL score (non-native speakers of English)

Stay Informed About
Teaching English as a Foreign Language

TEFL Information Session
(Recorded on Nov. 25, 2008)

Who Should Attend

This program is designed for those interested in living another culture before starting a new career or looking for a change of pace, and who do not have any teaching experience.

Graduated and Teaching in Germany
Thanks to my experience in UC Irvine Extension’s Teaching English as a Foreign Language program, I am now currently working in Germany as an English teacher for Berlitz and experiencing the German lifestyle and culture! With the help of the TEFL program's career counselor, I sought out Berlitz, applied, interviewed and then was offered a job, all within three weeks upon arriving in Germany. I was very well-prepared for the interview, and was able to prove to Berlitz that I would be an excellent teacher for them during the "sample lesson" segment of the interview by demonstrating techniques I learned in my classes. Now, every time I go and teach, I am reminded that I made the right choice to earn this certificate, and I am very thankful for all the help and support I have received even after the end of my program.
   - Liz Donnelly, 2007 Program Graduate

English Proficiency Requirement
All certificate programs at UC Irvine Extension (classroom and online formats) require professional-level English language proficiency in listening and note-taking, reading comprehension and vocabulary, written expression, and oral presentation. If you would like to refine your English language proficiency prior to beginning one of our programs, please see our English Language Programs.