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Watson College of Education

Watson College of Education

UNCW’s Watson College of Education prepares professionals to succeed in virtually any setting where teaching and learning occurs, from pre-school through higher ed, and in the workplace. Our students graduate with exceptional skills, knowledge and the power to change lives.

 

Discover Watson College of Education

Talking to youth in library Undergraduate Programs Join the Watson family for exceptional programs, hands-on learning and a community of students, mentors and faculty supporting your journey. Learn More
Student types on a laptop in cafeteria Graduate Programs Get ahead at work, broaden your skillset or change your career entirely. At Watson, you’ll find master’s, doctoral, add-on licensure and certificate programs with many specializations. Explore Programs
Group planting trees on campus Partnerships & Centers Academic excellence isn’t limited to what we can accomplish within the walls of Watson. Our partnerships, centers and schools provide opportunities for students and help our communities thrive. Explore Our Partnerships

A Place That Feels Like Home

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Applied Learning

Future Teachers

At Watson, students gradually assume the responsibilities of teaching with hands-on learning in our unique on-campus Ed Lab, field experiences in area schools and a full-time internship during the final semester. With an average of 500 hours in the classroom, you’ll begin your teaching career prepared!

Instructional
Technology

Project-based and problem-based learning are a hallmark of our instructional technology programs. Students gain valuable real-world experience and build a portfolio, working on projects in partnership with businesses, schools and/or governmental organizations.

Higher Education

Higher education students have many opportunities to apply concepts covered in coursework through our Certified Internship Program, our unique international internship program at Maynooth University, and participation in a culminating research project.

Doctoral Students

Applied learning and research are integral components of WCE’s doctoral program. Internships provide an opportunity to study innovation, leadership styles and data-driven decision-making in educational, government or international settings. Students also make a scholarly contribution in their field of study through original research and the completion of a written dissertation.

Extensive, Real-world Experiences

Experiential learning is highly valued at the Watson College. Students complete field experiences and internships, and have opportunities to study abroad, participate with faculty in significant research and join student organizations that focus on scholarship, community outreach and service. These experiences give our students a professional edge across a breadth of career pathways.

Learn more

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Academic Programs We can help you achieve your goals. View the many different programs we offer to future educators. Get Started Now
Applied Learning We believe the best educators are practiced educators, so we provide opportunities for every student to apply what they've learned in real-world settings. Applied Learning
Involvement & Support With over 250 student organizations on campus, there's a group that's sure to align with who you are and what you're passionate about. Check Out Details
Educator Support You're not alone! We offer resources and support for all students regardless of ability. Visit our CESTEM center. Stay in the Know
Departments & Offices Our team is ready to support you and help you accomplish your goals. Connect With Us
About Watson The Watson College of Education believes education transforms lives. Be a part of the transformation. About Watson

Student Engagement

Education Learning Community

Take you university experience to the next level! Join 20-25 other first-year pre-education majors in our Education Learning Community. As a member of the ELC residential community, you'll make lifelong friendships and get a jump start in your education classes and enrichment experiences.

Student Organizations

UNCW offers more than 250 student organizations, and WCE is home to the Watson Student Leaders and UNCW chapters of Kappa Delta Pi and the Student North Carolina Association of Educators. Visit WCE Student Engagement to learn more!

International Study and Research Opportunities

Expand your horizons and develop a global perspective! WCE students can work and study in schools around the world. Research opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students are also offered.

Seahawk Esports Club

Join UNCW's growing esports club! UNCW introduced esports in 2019 to bring together a community to learn, play and teach electronic sports. In just two years, the club has grown from four students in the WCE's instructional technology program to more than 500 members. The club fields nationally competitive teams, hosts campus and community events, and establishes connection to the broader esport community.

Class in kayaks on the river
Students wearing teacher capes at event
Teachers studying internationally riding in a cart
UNCW Halo Esports team practicing
News & Events

Watson Preview Day

This is a Saturday morning event where ANYONE interested in learning about the programs of study offered within the Watson College of Education should attend. The event begins with a welcome from the dean’s office, followed by a Faculty and Staff presentation. We will have a student panel discussion (Always the most popular) and end the event with open exploration of the building. During this time the Ed Lab and Curriculum Materials Center will be offering interactive breakouts with arts/crafts/technology and more! Please email Dean Heath with questions Heatht@uncw.edu - September 16, 10am-12pm

RSVP to the event
Watson Student Leaders

Watson Social Updraft

Did you know hawks use updrafts to work more efficiently and climb higher on less energy? Now you can use Watson’s Social Updraft hour to soar higher too! Fly-by our second-floor lounge between classes and take a moment to connect. Fall 2023 every other Tuesday or Wednesday in the EducationBuilding 2nd floor lounge from 11:30 am – 1 pm. ( 1st& 3rd Wednesday / 2nd & 4th Tuesday ) For more information, contact Grace Burmester at burmesterg@uncw.edu.

Email Grace Burmester
Watson Students

Exploring Trusting and Transformative Partnerships for ourCollective Future

TheUNCW/3C Advisory Council would like to invite faculty and staff to join more than 68 community college leaders at a day-long event visioning and designing opportunities for our collective future, Thursday, September 28 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in EB-162.

Register Online
3 Community College Students
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Take a Virtual Tour

Contact The Watson College

Dean’s Office

Phone: (910) 962-3192
Fax: (910) 962-4081

education@uncw.edu

601 S. College Road
Wilmington, NC 28403

Hours:

Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Summer hours:

Monday - Thursday, 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

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