BYU Seeks Individuals and Couples to Teach at Universities in China

Contributed By Church News

  • 9 October 2018

Ray Harrison teaches a class of master’s candidates at Tongji University in Shanghai. The Harrisons were teaching English classes as part of the China Teachers Program, administered through BYU.  Photo courtesy of Lynn Henrichsen.

The David M. Kennedy Center for International Studies at Brigham Young University (BYU) is seeking qualified couples and individuals to teach at highly respected universities in the People’s Republic of China during the 2019–20 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, medicine, culture, history, 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, be age 64 or younger (younger is very helpful), 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. Teachers do not proselyte actively or passively in accordance with Chinese law.

Assignments are for 11 months beginning August 2019 and include an intense two-week orientation at BYU.

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

Completed applications for the 2019–20 academic year must be received by Friday, February 1, 2019, or preferably sooner (the directors are in China during October and November).

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 training program at the Kennedy Center prior to leaving for China. They will also attend a midyear inservice conference in Hong Kong where teaching materials will be exchanged, support given, and friendships renewed.

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. BYU participants are clustered at Chinese partner universities for support and social interaction.

Teachers are currently placed at 18 partner universities in eight cities in China. Over 1,700 people have participated in and loved this program since 1989.

Applications and further information may be obtained from the 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.

  Listen