Kennedy Center Recruiting Teachers for China

Contributed By Church News

  • 27 November 2013

Nan Lian Park in Hong Kong.  Photo courtesy Gladys Joanne Wigg.

Article Highlights

  • Teachers are needed for English, writing, linguistics, business, law, economics, science, culture, and literature.
  • Chinese language skills are not required.
  • Assignments are for 11 months beginning August 2014 and include a two-week orientation at BYU.
  • Applications for the 2014–15 academic year are due by January 31, 2014.

PROVO, UTAH

The David M. Kennedy Center for International Studies at Brigham Young University is seeking qualified couples and individuals to teach at highly respected universities in the People’s Republic of China during the 2014–15 academic year.

Although most teachers are hired to teach oral and written English, there is an increasing need for professionals with experience in the fields of linguistics, business, law, economics, science, culture, and literature.

While formal teaching experience is recommended, it is not required for placement, nor are Chinese language skills—all classes are taught in English.

Applicants must be active members of the Church, have university degrees, be in a secure financial situation, have excellent emotional and physical health, and be age 65 or younger with no childcare responsibilities. Mid-career professionals in a position to take a sabbatical are encouraged to apply.

Teaching in China is an academic service activity, and teachers are expected to exemplify high moral values, professionalism, and integrity.

Assignments are for 11 months beginning August 2014 and include an intense two-week orientation at BYU.

Chinese universities provide teachers with adequate housing and a small living stipend. Airfare is also provided for the participants.

Completed applications for the 2014–15 academic year must be received by Friday, January 31, 2014.

Kennedy Center teacher nominees’ names will be sent to Chinese universities around March 1.

All selected teachers will participate in a mandatory two-week, 100-hour, TEFL training program at the Kennedy Center prior to leaving for China. They will also attend a mid-year, in-service conference in Hong Kong where teaching materials will be exchanged and the progress of each teacher will be assessed.

Participants will have a rare opportunity to teach Chinese university students, experience a year living in China, absorb the ancient and modern culture of Asia, and contribute to building a relationship of trust between two great nations. Their conscientious service benefits Chinese students, host universities, and the teachers themselves.

Teachers are currently placed at 18 partner universities in nine cities in China. More than 1,200 people have participated in the program since 1989.

Applications and further information may be obtained from: China Teachers Program, David M. Kennedy Center for International Studies, Brigham Young University, 220 HRCB, Provo, Utah, 84604; 801-422-5321; china_teachers@byu.edu; or online at kennedy.byu.edu/chinateachers.

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