When it comes to English as a Second Language, no matter what part of the field you are looking at, there are also debates. You can get a job teaching English with a three month course if you really want to but other companies that hire teachers are looking for people with University degrees plus certificates in ESL. Why so much difference? This goes back to what the school is expecting from you and what they have to offer.

If you have a high school education and a three month course in teaching ESL, you might be able to get a beginner's job but you cannot expect to be paid very much. You will be on a beginner's salary and the school placement may not be the best type. There is a possibility that you could end up in a school on the bad side of town. You have to do a lot of research before heading overseas just to make sure the school that you will be in is a good and safe one.

For people who have a degree from an accredited university as well as some education in ESL, your starting wages will be significantly higher and you will more than likely receive a better placement. If you education lies in between these two levels, then so will your pay and placement. It is like a hierarchy in some ways.

There are exceptions to these rules as there usually are but this is how it generally works. You need to build your resume up and get more experience if you are starting out. Your payment and placement depends on your education and experience. Your reputation to some extent may influence this if you have been out in the teaching field for any length of time.

The educational requirements for some companies may be low but you can't expect too much from them. If you want a better job, you have to be willing to get the education and work very hard for it. The best jobs don't normally drop into your lap without the qualifications.