New to this, need advice

[dfrecore]

If you're looking to get ANY degree, and you've worked in IT, you might want to consider getting an IT degree at WGU - it actually may be your fastest and cheapest option. You can transfer in a bunch of credits (90), but but you may only need to transfer in 60-80 and still be able to finish in a single term, depending on how quickly you can get through everything.

Just a thought.  And, it has University in the name for what it's worth.

If the OP has a significant number of IT certs, then he may even have a bigger leg up.

That said, if I truly wanted to make teaching my vocation, I'd think my long term goals through, then pick my degree to further them rather than just taking the fastest or cheapest. "Checking the box" makes more sense for people who are staying in their current career.

He wants to teach English as a Foreign Language, so it isn't necessary to get a degree in something else - anything will do.

[davewill]

He wants to teach English as a Foreign Language, so it isn't necessary to get a degree in something else - anything will do.

Yes, I read his post. I just think he should consider looking beyond the immediate goal when choosing which degree to get.

[PrettyFlyforaChiGuy]

I want to complete my degree sooner than later, because working overseas has been a dream of mine. In response to ChiGuy, I'm looking to teach English as a foreign language. Specifically Japan, and as someone who's only worked in IT, I can appreciate how technologically advanced the country is. Not to be confused, a technician is what I'm good at but I aspire to be a teacher, what I'm doing now only happened by luck and is not what I want in the long run.

I know there are more choices than TESU, and to be honest, my reasoning behind choosing TESU is simply because "university" is in the name. I've been told by people that in East Asia (in general) they prefer university over college, and names like Excelsior for example may not be taken seriously by employers.

I only saw this reply just now, sorry. I lived in Japan for 3 years when I started out, teaching in a commercial high school through the JET Programme. In addition to a degree (a minimum requirement), I would advise you to start building up your resume if you haven't already. Consider picking up a TEFL/TESOL/IELTS certificate during some free time. Even those that are very cheaply available on Groupon will help distinguish you and show your initial dedication to education. Quick Udemy courses in TOEFL Speaking, an in-demand skill, can also bolster your credentials. If you can volunteer tutor or teach, that is practical classroom experience, too.

I don't think I nor the local coworkers who pored over resumes and interviewed candidates ever really cared about seeing "university" vs "college," but on the other hand, there's also no compelling reason not to go for a uni branding if you want one. It's the built-up resume above that will help you stand out more, because it indicates development and potential for growth. I saw a lot of hot trash resumes featuring things like shirtless rear-view mirror selfies, and sat through an awkward interview that repeatedly fluffed up the applicant's mother's work experience (A co-head teacher deadpanned something like, "Wow, can you put her on the phone so we can interview her?"), so as long as you know how to convey your enthusiasm professionally, you're a great step above other candidates.