Greetings everybody, Gregory Kan here from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

I'm a fresh graduate with a Bachelor of Science majoring in Architecture but I decided to shift my career options into the education sector particularly in TESOL/ESL. I just returned from a week trip in Japan and would love to teach English in the country as an English teacher.

Currently I'm looking into starting my TESOL journey in Melbourne, Australia to obtain the certificate as I have close relatives living there for lodging convenience. I have looked into both institutions and universities that are offering certificates in TESOL. There are differences comparing the both, in terms of the course duration, tuition fees and enrollment requirements.

My question is, has anyone pursue their TESOL via institutions/university in Melbourne, Australia or maybe even Sydney/Perth/Adelaide/Hobart? What are the pros and cons between the two options (Japan and international recognition, valuable in the long term and delivers adequate/quality education)? Which institutions/university is the better choice to obtain a TESOL certificate?

I'm eyeing on both Victoria University and Melbourne University but their enrollment requirements are strict and demanding. Both universities needed one to have experience working as a teacher and also a CELTA certificate to show proof of commitment to work in TESOL programs.

Is CELTA a fundamental need before proceeding to TESOL? I'm thinking if it is needed then I'll proceed to look for an open position as either assistant teacher or main teacher here in Kuala Lumpur while attending a 20 week part time course in CELTA. Would that be a smart move?

Thanks.