General Questions
International Masters Program
Short-term Programs
International Internships

GENERAL QUESTIONS

1. What coursework can I take towards gaining international experiences and perspectives?
Developing an intercultural perspective has become of increasing importance in the field of education. Having experience beyond their own community enhances prospective teachers' understanding of the diverse ethnicity of our Canadian student population. Students enrolling in an international/intranational placement are undertaking an optional and exciting extension of their teaching practice in PDP. Engaging in a practicum in an unfamiliar community outside or within Canada following Education 405 and prior to Education 404, PDP offers the student the opportunity to examine schooling, teaching and learning from another cultural and educational context. If an applicant has previous teaching experiences e.g. teaching English overseas, he/she may also apply. Click here for further information.

2. What is the Minor in International and Global Education?
This minor provides opportunities to explore an interdisciplinary, experientially based approach to International and Global Education so that appropriate learning experiences can be created and infused in any given elementary and secondary course.
Find out the requirements.

3. What education courses can I take that have an international and global education focus?
EDUC 370-4 International and Intercultural Education
EDUC 435-4 Infusing Global Perspectives in Curriculum

4. How can I teach abroad?
International Co-op is an opportunity for you to experience the world while working in your field of study. International work ranges from small local to large multi-national organizations in both private and public sectors. The work and life experience that you gain is invaluable in your personal growth and development, boosting your career prospects and global competitiveness. Click for more information. PDP graduates can also participate in an international internship.

5. I taught in my home country and now want to teach here. How do I become a BC certified teacher?
SFU’s Faculty of Education and the BC College of Teachers recognize that teachers who have qualified and practiced outside of Canada have a wealth of experience and expertise to offer our public education system. To welcome these teachers and to include them successfully in the British Columbia education system is the goal of the PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATION PROGRAM (PQP), which assists in the adjustment and acculturation of these teachers to the BC school culture.

INTERNATIONAL MASTER OF EDUCATION PROGRAM TEACHING ENGLISH AS A FOREIGN/SECOND LANGUAGE

1. What do I need to send in my application package?
You will need to send:
* The Graduate Studies application form
* Letter of intent
* TOEFL/IELTS score
* Transcripts and copies of your degree(s)
* 3 confidential letters of reference
* Resume / CV
* $75 application fee (cheque or credit card information on the SFU application form)

2. Tell me more about the letter of intent.
The letter of intent is a very important part of your application. It should be typed, spell-checked, written in a paragraph form and about 2 pages long. Describe in a paragraph form your professional accomplishments (teaching experience, other work experience, scholarships received, awards received, membership in organizations, field of university degree, thesis topic if applicable.
Give reasons why you want to:

• pursue graduate studies
• take a graduate program in Canada
• take graduate studies specifically in education
• take the TEFL/TESL MEd program

Describe what specific career goals you have for the future, how the TEFL MEd will help you fulfill your career goals, and what specifically you hope to gain professionally from the program

3. What is the difference between the International Masters of Education in TESL/TEFL and the on-campus Masters of Education in TESL?
Here is a brief summary of the differences between the two TESL programs:
- International MEd:
All students are international students and the program starts with a 5 week orientation course aimed to assist students with North American academic literacy and educational discourses as well as cultural orientation. Applicants to the program may have little teaching experience.  One of the core courses in the program is Fieldwork which allows the international students the opportunity to familiarize themselves with Canadian educational settings, the program is completed in 4 semesters, academic literacy support is offered throughout the duration of the program, courses are usually scheduled in the day time, course content is likely to address more fully TEFL situations

- On campus MEd:
Most students in the program are full time teachers in the Vancouver area. All courses are scheduled in the evenings. Since all students are experienced teachers the program does not make provisions for a Fieldwork course. As most students also work full time, most take one course per semester and this affects course scheduling. Most students complete the program in 6 or more semesters; course content is likely to address more fully TESL situations.

4. Why does the MEd International Program cost more than other programs offered by the Faculty of Education?

The MEd International Program is a cost-recovery program which means that its operation requires that students pay the full amount of its cost. According to statistics in the Almanac of Post-Secondary Education in Canada, published by the Canadian Association of University Teachers in 2006, student tuition fees in the province of British Columbia cover only 29.6% of University Operating Revenue while the rest, i.e. 60.1%, is government funded. Thus the difference in tuition paid by students in this program and other programs reflects the fact that the MEd International program is not subsidized by the government.

5. How does a MEd program differ from an MA program?
An MEd program is considered a professional program and its completion requires passing of a comprehensive exam while an MA program is considered a research focused program and its completion requires the writing of a thesis. Currently the Faculty of Education does not offer an MA program in TES/FL.

6. What is included in my program fees for the International Masters 2007/2008 Program?
The total amount of tuition/student fees for the entire 4-semester program in Canadian funds is $24,794.84. Program fees are approximately $23,450 and student fees are $1,350. Included in the program fees are: a 5-week orientation course, all course offerings for the International Masters Program (you can audit additional classes in the Faculty of Education or other departments at no extra charge), academic literacy, cultural and administrative support throughout the duration of the program as well as school visits. Please note that the amount of $ 1,350 mentioned covers the student fees (i.e. athletic-recreation, student services, extended healthcare, Universal Transit Pass (U-Pass) which allows use of the public transportation (bus, seabus and skytrain),  etc.) for the duration of the entire program.

7. Is financial assistance available?
All graduate scholarship and financial assistance programs are administered by one of two University units. Merit based graduate scholarships and awards (cumulative grade point average of 3.50 or better) are administered by the Dean of Graduate Studies Office. Click for more information.

8. Is airport pick-up included?
Yes. An SFU representative will be there to meet and greet you with a clearly marked sign in the waiting lobby outside international flights of the Vancouver International Airport. A chartered bus or van or other appropriate mode of transport will then take you and your fellow students to the SFU campus.

9. Do I need to get health insurance before arriving to Canada?
SFU requires students to have valid medical insurance for the entire duration of their studies at SFU. As a newcomer to BC you will require private temporary insurance for your first 3 months in the province before you are eligible for the mandatory provincial Medical Services Plan. We suggest that you arrange private health insurance from your home country for the first 3 months of your stay in Canada or apply for the International Student Medical Plan offered by David Cummings Insurance or another private carrier of your choice. Please note that your agency should have copies of the application form for David Cummings Insurance.
Basic medical insurance is mandatory. Included in your student fees is extended medical coverage. Click here for information on health services at SFU.

10. I would like more information about staying in the SFU Residences.
For the first week of the program, students have the option of staying in the SFU Residences. Rooms are single occupancy with bed linens, towels and shared bathrooms. (That means one bathroom on each floor for all residents to access.) Each room is furnished with an extra long (78 inch) single bed, a dresser, a built-in desk, a task chair, bookshelves, a small fridge and a closet. Each room is wired with high speed Internet. The cost is $35 per night plus 10% hotel tax. Additional daily meal costs at SFU residence are: Breakfast - $6.45 , Lunch - $9.00 and Dinner - $10.80 per person per day.

11. What accommodation options do I have?
* Long-term accommodation possibilities include applying for residence, living in home stay, and searching for off-campus accommodation. If you are interested in on campus accommodation you can apply online. Residence has been accepting applications for the Fall semester since January 2008 and availability may be limited. Nevertheless, you may still apply, provided you send a $25.00 CAD non-refundable application fee. Please check their web site for costs and other useful information about living in residence. You can also check on a list of student clubs registered with the Simon Fraser Student Society to see if there is a club/association at SFU that might be helpful for students of your nationality. You can contact them and let them know that you are coming to SFU and looking for a place to stay on campus. Many students have found accommodations on campus with the help of student clubs. One of the advantages of living on campus is convenience-close to classrooms and other facilities (library, gym, etc).
* Living in home-stay refers to the possibility to live with a Canadian family who will provide you with a room and 3 meals per day.  Since Canada is a very multi-cultural country, many cultures are represented in the community of home-stay host families.  By staying with a local family, you might get more chances to practice your English and experience Canadian life style and culture. However, the cost for home-stay is usually higher than other housing options ($750-800 per month).
* For off campus housing, you can check Myidealhome or Homes4students. These sites offer helpful information on average costs, types of accommodation and things to consider when starting your search as well as allow you to search properties for rent/listings. Popular neighbourhoods where SFU students live are: North Burnaby, Metrotown area, Lougheed Town Centre area/Burquitlam,  Coquitlam, Commercial Drive area in East Vancouver. The rent is usually $500 or less per month if you share the house/apartment with house mate(s). There are also basement suites for rent, which could be cheaper. More detailed information about housing possibilities will be offered early in August and we hope to be able to assist you in your search for long-term accommodation.

12. How do I get a bank account?
In order to open a bank account in Canada you will need your passport, SFU student ID card (which you will pick up after your arrival), proof of enrollment, and documentation verifying your address (e.g. lease or residence agreement). It is not advisable to carry large amounts of cash upon arrival to Canada. Rather, the bulk of the money you will need for your living expenses in Canada should be transferred to your bank account once you settle in. Bringing Travelers Cheques initially, preferably in Canadian currency, is advisable. You may also use your bank card to access funds from China through a banking machine (ATM machine) in Canada. You need to be aware though that using your bank card from a Chinese bank to withdraw money from an ATM machine in Canada will incur a surcharge on the sum you withdraw.

13. Can I teach in British Columbia after I graduate?
The MEd TEFL degree is not linked to gaining a Teaching Certificate. The British Columbia public school system requires that teachers in public schools obtain a Teaching
Certificate through the BC College of Teachers following a completion of a one year Professional development program which is different from a Master's degree. Canadian citizens and landed immigrants are eligible to apply for a Teaching Certificate. International students who gain a Master's degree can look for jobs in colleges or private schools which do not require a BC Teaching Certificate.

14. Do I have a choice in selecting my courses each term?
The program consists of 7 courses and the comprehensive exam. The students will take as a cohort/group 5 of these courses. One of the core courses, Educ 820, and the elective of their choice, from those suggested for students in the program, will be taken with other cohorts in the faculty. You also have the choice of auditing classes in other Faculties.

15. Can I work part-time while I study?
Canadian Immigration and Citizenship (CIC) recently announced that international students will be eligible to apply for off-campus work permits. During your studies you can apply for part-time jobs both on campus and off campus. In order to be eligible to work off campus, foreign students must have a valid study permit, and they must have studied full-time at an eligible public, post-secondary institution for at least six months out of the 12 months preceding their application. Eligible full-time students who retain satisfactory academic standing can apply to work for a maximum of 20 hours a week off-campus while classes are in session and full-time during scheduled breaks (including summer or winter holidays and reading weeks).
Click for more information.

16. What documents should I bring?
Make sure you have all the important documents you may need prior to your departure for Canada. Use this checklist.

17. What else do I need to know?
Please consult the SFU International website for important and useful information.

SHORT-TERM, PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS

1. Who enrolls in a short-term, professional development program?
The program offers an international study opportunity for groups of teachers who have their undergraduate degree and have teaching experience and/or for groups of student teachers in their second or third year of study.

2. What is the purpose of the program?
The goal of the program is to strengthen the participant’s professional knowledge, skill, and ability through offering a range of  integrated academic, experiential and cultural experiences. Based on reflecting on their own teaching and learning history, participants examine the Canadian education system with a view to incorporating new instructional methods and strategies to enhance their effectiveness as teachers and student teachers.

3. How is the program designed?
There is a core curriculum focusing on revisiting the fundamentals of teaching and learning, language teaching principles, visits to local school classrooms, presentations of special topics in education, discussion sessions, the development of individual action plans and selected cultural events. Based on the expressed needs and interests of each particular group, and on collaboration with the partner organization, the program can then usually be customized to accommodate specific requests. SFU is committed to program designs that reflect the educational and cultural contexts of the participating group.

4.What themes or topics are covered in the program?
The following topics are included in the core curriculum:
•    Teaching and learning principles and practice
•    Language teaching principles
•    Teaching models
•    The Canadian education system
•    Cultural studies
•    Special topics- such as drama, music, science, math,        
     storytelling, special needs, environmental
•    Pupil assessment
•    Curriculum approaches

5.What is a typical week?
Classes are scheduled Monday through Friday from 9:30-3;00. The teaching and learning approach is highly interactive, including paired and group work. Instuctors model a variety of techniques and strategies. Participants are required to maintain a daily learning journal, documenting new and relevant teaching approaches that could be incorporated into their home teaching and/or study situation. Discussion, analysis, evaluation and application, regarding current issues in education, are ongoing. There are weekly visits to local school classrooms, providing opportunities for observation, comparison, questioning, assessing and adapting.


6. What are the main program components?
Included are the following; 
•    Instruction and related supplies
•    Welcome and closing receptions
•    Library and computer access
•    School visits
•    Sessions with SFU education students
•    Selected field trip
•    Airport transfers
•    Homestay
•    Final presentations
•    Certificates of completion

7. What are the fees?
Fees are determined, based on the number of participants and on program duration, as well as on any additional optional or operational features.

8. When is the program offered?
Programs can be conducted throughout the year with the exception of mid-August to mid-September and early December to early January. While summer programs are popular, school visit options are more limited. Over the past several years, groups of teachers and students have joined the program from China, Japan, Korea, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Germany, France, Spain and Mexico.

9. What can I hope to gain from this program?
Previous participants have identified the following benefits;
•    To have the opportunity of reflecting on one’s own teaching principles and practices in the context of a new and unfamiliar professional environment and through the many and varied experiences offered, to extend knowledge, skill and ability
•    To be personally and professionally challenged, invigorated and renewed through sharing teaching, learning and living experiences with instructors and peers
•    To expand intercultural awareness through experiencing a multicultural environment
•    To strengthen English language communication skills
•    To become more aware and knowledgeable about current global educational issues
•    To consider the benefits of an interactive approach to teaching and learning
•    To become more effective teachers

INTERNATIONAL INTERNSHIPS

1. Who is eligible to participate in an international internship?
Students who have graduated from the Professional Development Program (PDP) SFU can submit a complete package (application form, letter of intent along with the names and contact information of three references). An interview may possibly be conducted. A Committee then reviews all applications before deciding on who will be extended an invitation.

2. What are the advantages of an international internship over other teaching abroad opportunities?
There is no obligation for a full-length teaching contract. Typically interns will be required to teach a maximum of 20 hours per week in the curriculum and grade level appropriate to their experience, or as instructors of English as a Foreign Language.

3. What is provided?
The host school provides full airfare, accommodation and monthly stipend. SFU offers pre-departure orientation as well as strong support throughout the internship.

4. Where can students undertake an internship?
We have a number of partner institutions around the world including China
And Korea. Other countries under exploration include Switzerland, Japan,
Australia and Finland.

5. How long is an internship?
Internships are typically 3-5 months in length.

6. I’m matched with a placement, but it is my second choice, where do I go from here?
You should discuss this with the International Program Coordinator. Substantial effort has gone into securing you an international placement. It is strongly recommended that students follow through with an international placement if they are matched.