What type of degree do you need to teach English in Japan?

Question:

I've read that you need a Bachelor's Degree. Can it be a bachelor's in anything or does it have to involve teaching English? Also, is knowing how to speak Japanese a requirement for teaching English in Japanese schools? (I can only assume this is the case because how are you supposed to teach English to people who can't speak English if you don't know how to describe and teach them in their own language?) Would it be a good idea to major in English and minor in Japanese?

Answer:

You need a BA / BS degree from an accredited college. Of course the more it's related to teaching or English, the better chances you have of being hired. And no, knowing Japanese isn't necessary. Many schools don't even want Japanese to be spoken in the classroom.