How much is a CELTA worth?

[Andy20]

Hi everyone.
A number of people on this board seem knowledgable about English teaching in Japan, so I thought that I would ask for some advice.
I'm thinking about taking a CELTA course this summer and was wondering to what extent this qualification would help me find a better or more well paid job.

A little about my situation:
I'm currently in the middle of a degree in development studies, but I'm not keen to pursue a career in development or economics. To be honest I'm not sure what I would like to do for a career. Teaching English, especially to adults rather than young children, seems interesting. I think its something that I might consider as a career if I find that I enjoy it, but either way I think I would like to teach for at least a year and improve my Japanese at the same time. I've passed the JLPT Level 2 and hope to pass level 1 in about 2 years.

Thanks for any help.

 

[Ewok85]

If you are paying to do the course, I really wouldn't bother. The english teaching industry here is already on a slippery slope with one of the most recent issues being a decrease in wages for teachers. Its not the sort of thing you would take up as a career - if you really want to though, you need no less than your masters PREFERABLY in teaching. Otherwise you are looking at a conversation or ALT position.

 

[Davey]

Every course is a course, and I think that companies rather sponser you than someone without a course. I have done a Online Tefl course, I know it's not the best, but it's better something, than nothing.

I am getting a spouse visa though.

 

[Andy20]

Thanks for your replies. I think I am going to take this course, the alternative for this summer would probably be working in supermarket or other really bad work anyway.