ELIC is very committed to the professional development of our teachers and staff. Because of this we offer several opportunities to develop and grow professionally. Please scroll down to learn more about these options.


Earn a Master's Degree
This innovative program, offered by ELIC's University Teaching Program, allows participants to enjoy a fulfilling teaching experience in Asia while simultaneously earning their Master’s level graduate degree. Since ELIC desires to equip its teachers for fruitful and effective long-term service in Asia, these graduate programs are available to provide the tools necessary for teachers to do just that, and make a high quality long-term investment in the work of ELIC. Presently we offer master’s degrees from Wheaton College and Azusa Pacific University, with additional options being considered.

(M.A.) Intercultural Studies
from Wheaton College

(M.A.) Intercultural Studies and TESOL
from Wheaton College

(M.A.) TESOL
from Azusa Pacific University 

Through a special arrangement with our partnering institutions, ELIC is able to offer reduced tuition costs by approximately 40% of the normal on-campus rate. The cost of tuition, along with incidental expenses such as books, room and board, and summer travel to and from their chosen institution, becomes a part of the teacher profile and is covered through the teacher’s financial support.

Teachers complete the coursework in three different settings: intensive on-campus summer sessions, intensive mid-winter break sessions in Thailand taught by faculty from the institution offering the degree, and distance learning courses completed in Asia while teaching. The intensive summer and winter sessions also include pre- or post-class assignments most often completed in respective teaching contexts.

Enrollment in the MA program requires application and acceptance by both ELIC's University Teaching Program and the educational institution offering the degree. Although each school offering a graduate degree has different application deadlines, all applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their application to the institution offering the degree by ELIC’s application deadline. Early application is highly recommended due to the limited number of enrollment spaces and popularity of these programs. Although ELIC teachers are strongly encouraged to be accepted into a graduate program before departure, they are required to complete at least two semesters of teaching in Asia with ELIC prior to beginning their graduate coursework. 


Earn a TEFL Certificate from Wheaton College
One of the hallmarks of our organization and program is the unparalleled quality of training provided. All new teachers, except those serving in Mongolia, take a TEFL Certificate program from Wheaton College. This training includes a practicum and is designed to ensure that each teacher arrives in the classroom well-equipped for a rewarding teaching experience. Seminars on key aspects of culture, curriculum, building relationships with students and team dynamics are some of the additional training components designed to ensure a satisfying and positive experience in Asia.

Language Study Options
Our experience over nearly three decades of Asia service has been that learning the language aids significantly in adjustment to a new culture and in relating to students and others. Because of this, we encourage language study. Language study typically follows at least one year of teaching. Among various language study opportunities in each of our countries of service, we have developed a highly-regarded language program on the campus of a Chinese university.

Graduate Student Loan Repayment Grant
Legacy Track participants who have graduated from programs and institutions compatible with ELIC's vision are eligible to apply for a student loan repayment grant. This grant is renewable annually, over the first 4 years of service in Asia with ELIC. Limited funds are available for this grant opportunity, which cannot be combined with ELIC financed graduate or language study. 




Return to China Home