Bochum is a city that continuously reinvents itself. It started as a mining town in the 19th and 20th centuries, became a thriving industrial hub after WWII, and is now a vibrant cultural centre that attracts large multinational businesses from all over the world. With several universities and a strong corporate presence, Bochum is the perfect place to earn a good salary teaching Business English at offices or giving private classes.
A city known for its fine arts scene and greenery
There are over 40 stages all over Bochum, so if you're a music lover as well as a TEFL teacher, you've come to the right place. Check out the famous Schauspielhaus Bochum (Bochum's theatre) and the Bochum Symphony Orchestra. Although Bochum is a large industrial city, it's also quite green — end your day wandering its numerous lakes, meadows, and woods. It's also close to other artistic hubs like Dortmund and Gelsenkirchen, so you'll never be bored.
Best places to hang out
As a large university city, Bochum has plenty to do at night and on weekends. For a great night out, head to the Bermuda Triangle, a popular student haunt in the city centre. For a taste of the local brew, visit the Fiege Brewery, then dance the night away at clubs Riff and Zeche. For a late-night snack, hit the food stalls serving the famous currywurst — sausage covered in ketchup and curry sauce.
Add a Business English specialist to your TEFL
Bochum's strongest job vertical is Business English — in-company training at multinational offices and private executive classes. Pair OnTESOL's 120-hr TEFL with the Teaching Business English (TBEC) specialist to arrive interview-ready. Both are TESL Canada recognized and ACCET accredited — no Practicum needed for the German market, and the credential helps secure your work visa.
View Business English Course →The TESOL community in Bochum
Bochum offers excellent resources for professional development. With several universities, you'll have plenty of options for higher learning and support as an ESL teacher. Head to Ruhr-University Bochum, which hosts excellent linguistics conferences and events for those teaching English in the city — a strong academic network to plug into while you build your client base.