A foolproof way to advance your career? Investing in professional development.
And as an English as a Second Language—ESL—teacher, you know that there’s always more to learn. Yet, professional development for ESL teachers is often overlooked. Regardless, it is important. It is one of the best ways to keep your skills fresh.
Professional development can also make your resume stand out. With over 946,576 ESL teachers already there in the U.S. and more entering, it’s important to find ways to make yourself a more competitive candidate. That can really pay off.
Here are a few ways you can boost your resume as an ESL teacher and grow as an educator.
#1 Get TEFL or TESOL Certified
Earning a TEFL or TESOL can make you stand out as an ESL teacher.
TEFL – Teaching English as a Foreign Language – and TESOL – Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages – are often the minimum qualifications for many teaching jobs. If you haven’t secured one yet, it’s never too late.
A TEFL or TESOL certification shows employers that you’ve received solid training in the basics of teaching English, including lesson planning and language instruction techniques.
The two, though used interchangeably, are different from each other. According to Forbes, TEFL involves teaching English to non-native speakers in non-English-speaking countries. TESOL, on the other hand, refers to teaching English to non-native speakers in English-speaking countries.
You can complete the course in person or online—the latter is the most common way, though.
A TEFL certification requires around 100 hours of coursework, while a TESOL involves about 120 hours of study. Some programs, however, may require more practicum hours. Those might be beneficial if you need teaching experience or more in-depth training.
#2 Pursue an Ed.D. Program
Aiming to level up your career in ESL teaching? A Doctor of Education or Ed.D. could be the golden ticket.
This degree is ideal if you’re interested in leadership roles, especially in ESL or bilingual education settings. Possible leadership roles, according to Marymount University, could include chief learning officer, policy maker, curriculum director, training and development manager, and school superintendent.
Ed.D. programs often explore advanced topics like instructional design, educational policy, and methods for supporting diverse learners.
With expertise in instructional design, you can develop lessons and curricula that address the unique needs of ESL students. Knowledge of educational policy will allow you to advocate for policies that support ESL programs, funding, and resources to improve the learning experience for ESL students.
These programs also focus on teaching methods and strategies that cater to diverse learners, so you will be able to create inclusive learning environments.
Many universities offer part-time or online options. Opting for them will be the best bet since you can keep teaching while studying. An Ed.D. degree is a serious commitment. But it’s worth considering if you’re ready to make a big impact.
#3 Take Part in ESL Conferences
To stay sharp as an ESL teacher, attend conferences.
Many ESL organizations offer annual conferences with sessions on everything from innovative teaching methods to language acquisition research.
The TESOL International Association, for instance, is holding an International Convention & Expo in March 2025 at the Long Beach Convention Center, Long Beach, California. This convention—the largest in-person event in the English language teaching field—offers professional development opportunities to professionals worldwide who work in various contexts and at all levels.
Attending this conference would be beneficial since it will allow you to dive deep into the field, explore new resources, and participate in hands-on workshops. All these can transform your approach to teaching.
Plus, adding conference attendance to your resume shows potential employers that you’re committed to professional growth and staying at the forefront of ESL education.
#4 Become an IELTS Examiner
Have a TEFL or TESOL certification and three to five years of teaching experience? You’re qualified to be an IELTS examiner—why not become one?
Getting certified as an examiner for exams like the IELTS requires rigorous training. Adding it to your resume will demonstrate that you’re a committed, qualified professional.
As an IELTS examiner, you’ll be trained to assess candidates’ English proficiency in speaking and writing according to strict guidelines.
You’ll also learn about the grading rubrics and develop skills that will help you guide students more effectively through test preparation. This certification can be a great asset, especially if you’re working with students aiming for university admission.
Adding professional development activities to your resume can show employers that you’re serious about your career as an ESL teacher.
Whether you’re pursuing an Ed.D. or getting certified as an IELTS examiner, every skill you pick up will strengthen your resume and make you a better teacher. So go ahead—invest in yourself.
