Description
Chiang Mai University’s Teaching English as a Foreign Language Certificate Program (CMUTEFL) is Chiang Mai’s only 4-week university approved TEFL certification program. This course offers university standard instruction for those who are interested in learning how to teach English to non-native speakers of the language, whilst at the same time immersing themselves in the culture and customs of Thailand, providing a holistic and rewarding experience
CMUTEFL will be operated on the main campus at Chiang Mai University. The university campus provides the perfect setting for academic study and recreational activity. Language Institute Chiang Mai University will provide the setting for the CMUTEFL training at its multi-purpose language and training facility.
It could be that the area of teaching with the most employment prospects for graduating teachers is Young Learners Teaching, including Kindergarten. Knowing how to teach young learners and being able to demonstrate this to future employers gives graduates from the CMUTEFL program an advantage in the jobs market. For this reason the four week course has two “Teaching Young Learners” workshops, covering every aspect of the theory and practice of how young learners learn and effective classroom practice, including materials production.
Teaching English is a rewarding experience and an excellent way to explore the world. Students who graduate from CMUTEFL will have the opportunity to teach not only in Thailand but across the globe.
I completed the TEFL course at Chiang Mai University in June 2024, and I can confidently say it was a transformative experience. Here’s a breakdown of my thoughts on the course:
Curriculum
The course is well-structured and covers all the essential aspects of teaching English as a foreign language. From lesson planning to classroom management, the curriculum prepares you thoroughly for real-world teaching. One thing I appreciated was the balance between theoretical knowledge and practical application. You’re not just reading about teaching methods—you actually get to practice them.
Instructors
The instructors were fantastic. They brought years of teaching experience, both locally and internationally, which made their insights and feedback invaluable. They were approachable, supportive, and always willing to give extra help when needed. Their passion for teaching was contagious, and it motivated me to push myself further.
Practical Teaching Experience
One of the highlights of the course was the teaching practicum. Chiang Mai University partners with local schools, so we had the opportunity to teach real students. This hands-on experience helped build my confidence and allowed me to put the teaching methods we learned into practice. We received constructive feedback after every session, which was incredibly useful.
Classroom Environment
The class size was relatively small, which I found to be a huge advantage. It allowed for more personalized instruction and plenty of opportunities to ask questions. My classmates came from diverse backgrounds, which made discussions rich and interesting. There was a strong sense of camaraderie among us, and we often helped each other with lesson plans and teaching strategies.
Location
Chiang Mai is a great place to study. The campus is beautiful, and the city itself is affordable and filled with cultural experiences. Being in a city that has such a rich cultural and historical background only added to the overall experience. Plus, after class, you can explore temples, try delicious food, or enjoy the natural scenery.
Accommodation and Support
The university offers plenty of accommodation options for students, and the administrative support was excellent. They helped with everything from finding housing to understanding visa requirements. Living in Chiang Mai is relatively inexpensive compared to other parts of Thailand, so it’s a great place to study on a budget.
Overall Impression
I highly recommend the TEFL course at Chiang Mai University. It’s comprehensive, engaging, and provides everything you need to succeed as an ESL teacher. The combination of quality instruction, practical experience, and the vibrant environment of Chiang Mai makes it an excellent choice for anyone considering teaching English abroad.
If you’re looking for a thorough TEFL course in a beautiful location, this is the one for you!