Deciding to pursue a career in international education can be a thrilling prospect. The opportunity to immerse oneself in a new culture, contribute to the global community, and shape young minds is indeed appealing. However, it’s also essential to consider the financial aspect of such a decision. In this context, we’ll be exploring the potential salary for a Master’s in Education international teacher in Malaysia, along with five tips to maximise your earnings.
Understanding the Salary Landscape
The salary for a Master’s in Education international teacher in Malaysia can vary significantly. Factors such as the school’s location, the teacher’s experience, and the specific subject taught can all influence the final figure. However, on average, an international teacher in Malaysia might expect to earn between MYR 10,000 to MYR 15,000 per month. This is considerably higher than the national average salary, making it an attractive proposition for many.
It’s worth noting that these figures are averages and actual salaries can be higher or lower. For instance, a teacher with a Master’s in Education teaching at a prestigious international school in Kuala Lumpur might command a higher salary than a teacher at a smaller school in a less affluent area. Similarly, teachers with specialised skills or qualifications, such as those in STEM subjects, might also earn more.
5 Tips to Maximise Your Salary
While the average salary figures are encouraging, there are several strategies you can employ to further boost your earning potential. Here are five tips to help you maximise your salary as an international teacher in Malaysia.
1. Gain Relevant Experience
Experience is a significant factor in determining your salary. Teachers with several years of experience under their belt are often more desirable to employers and can command higher salaries. Therefore, consider gaining experience in your home country before embarking on an international teaching career. This can provide you with a solid foundation and make you a more attractive candidate for higher-paying positions.
Additionally, international teaching experience can also be beneficial. Schools often value teachers who have demonstrated their ability to adapt to different cultures and teaching environments. Therefore, if you have the opportunity to teach abroad before moving to Malaysia, this could also enhance your earning potential.
2. Specialise in a High-Demand Subject
Teachers who specialise in high-demand subjects often earn more than those who teach more general subjects. In Malaysia, subjects such as English, Mathematics, and the Sciences are particularly in demand. Therefore, if you have the qualifications and passion to teach one of these subjects, you could potentially earn a higher salary.
However, it’s important to balance this with your interests and skills. Teaching a subject you’re not passionate about solely for a higher salary could lead to job dissatisfaction. Therefore, consider your subject specialisation carefully.
3. Pursue Further Qualifications
While a Master’s in Education is a valuable qualification, pursuing further qualifications can also boost your salary. For example, a PhD in Education or a specialised teaching certification could make you more desirable to employers and increase your earning potential.
However, further qualifications require a significant investment of time and money. Therefore, it’s important to consider whether the potential salary increase would outweigh the cost of the qualification.
4. Negotiate Your Salary
Negotiating your salary can be a daunting prospect, but it’s an essential skill for maximising your earnings. When negotiating, it’s important to be aware of the average salary for your role and to present a compelling case for why you deserve a higher salary. This could be based on your qualifications, experience, or the unique skills you bring to the role.
Remember, negotiation is a two-way process. Be prepared to listen to the employer’s perspective and to find a mutually beneficial solution.
5. Consider the Whole Compensation Package
While salary is an important consideration, it’s not the only factor that determines your overall compensation. Many international schools in Malaysia offer benefits such as housing allowances, health insurance, and flight reimbursements. These can significantly increase the overall value of your compensation package.
Therefore, when considering a job offer, be sure to take into account the entire compensation package, not just the salary. This can help you make a more informed decision about your potential earnings.
Conclusion
Teaching internationally can be a rewarding and financially lucrative career choice. While the salary for a Master’s in Education international teacher in Malaysia can vary, there are several strategies you can employ to maximise your earnings. By gaining relevant experience, specialising in a high-demand subject, pursuing further qualifications, negotiating your salary, and considering the whole compensation package, you can enhance your earning potential and make the most of your international teaching career.
Enhance Your International Teaching Career with iQTS
Ready to take your international teaching career to the next level? The IQTS at UWE offers the International Qualified Teacher Status (iQTS) Programme, designed to elevate your professional credentials. With iQTS, you can overcome the barriers of strict qualification requirements, enjoy a 45% increase in promotion rates, a 30% salary boost, and become part of a thriving professional community. Don’t let the chance to deepen your understanding of global education systems and benefit from flexible online study options slip away. Make Your Next Step towards a more connected and rewarding teaching experience with iQTS.