Qualified individuals who wish to teach at universities in China may apply for positions through the David M. Kennedy Center for International Studies at BYU.
"We are entering our sixth year of placing teachers in universities in China," said Jeffrey F. Ringer, director of the China Teachers Program and assistant director of the center. "We have placed approximately 125 teachers in the past five years and have built up some very good relationships with several Chinese universities, which are eager to have a continual stream of people affiliated with BYU fill their teaching posts. We now have teachers at 11 universities in China."Teachers generally teach English, although some also teach their professional skills. Teachers with advanced degrees are preferred, but those who have bachelor's degrees will be considered as well. Teaching skills or professional experience are also preferred. A knowledge of Chinese language is helpful, although not required.
Teachers will be on 11-month contracts, from September 1994 through July 1995. Training workshops for the teachers will be held at BYU during August.
Brother Ringer explained that the teachers go to China for academic purposes only, as professionals in their fields and not as representatives of the Church. However, he said, applicants must be Latter-day Saints in good standing, have a physician's document stating they are in good health and be no older than 65.
"Applicants need to understand from the outset there are some difficulties associated with living in China," Brother Ringer said. "Apartments are small and many Western amenities are not available. Most of our people go through a short adjustment period when they arrive. Almost without exception after the first couple of weeks, our teachers report that they are happy and satisfied and enjoying their experiences.
"Our teachers have had very good success. Two of them, Marie Bishop of Orem, Utah, and Gerald King of Ben Wheeler, Texas, were selected as teachers of the year in their provinces."
Those interested in receiving information and an application may write or call: China Teachers Program, 237 HRCB, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, or telephone (801) 378-3377. Deadline for receipt of completed applications is Nov. 30.
