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Undergraduate Programs

Academic Programs

Join the Watson family for exceptional programs, hands-on learning, and a strong community of support. We offer programs for future teachers at all grade levels from Pre-K through high school, with many specializations to choose from. For working adults, our Workforce Learning and Development degree is designed to advance careers in training and leadership. We are also home to several innovative minors, including interdisciplinary programs in leadership, online teaching, and Esports.

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Average Class Size

18:1

Student to Faculty Ratio

250+

Student Organizations

Educational Opportunities

  • Applied Learning from Day 1
  • Unique Education Lab
  • Innovative CMC Makerspace
  • International Study
  • Vibrant Student Organizations
  • Support Beyond Graduation

EXPLORE DEGREE & LICENSURE PROGRAMS

Education of Young Children Provide early care and teach children from birth through kindergarten. Learn more about EYC
Elementary Education K-6 Teach a variety of subjects and lay the foundation of children's futures. Learn More About Elementary
Middle Grades Education 6-9 Choose a concentration in Language Arts, math, science, and/or social studies. Learn More About Middle Grades
Secondary Education 9-12 Provides a pathway to teach high school biology, chemistry, English, history, or math. Learn More About Secondary
Special Education K-12 Teach learners with special needs in general education or adapted curriculum programs. Learn More About Special Education
Healthful Living & Fitness Education K-12 Teach and coach in K-12 schools. Learn More About HLFE
Music Education K-12 Share the joy of music as an elementary, middle grades, or high school teacher. Learn More About Music Education
French Language Education K-12 Teach french in elementary, middle grades, or high school. Learn More About Teaching French
Spanish Language Education K-12 Teach spanish in elementary, middle grades, or high school. Learn more about Teaching Spanish
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New! Degree in Workforce Learning & Development

WCE introduces a Bachelor of Science in Workforce Learning & Development with classes starting in fall 2024. The program is designed for military personnel and mid-career professionals in the skilled trades. Offered 100% online.

Learn More!

Minors & Certificates

Choosing a major is just the start. We offer a range of minors and certificate programs to help you gain skills, open doors and expand your career options!
Learn More

Learn More!

Student Testimonials

"There is joy in helping children find their place in this world and discover who they are. I can do that as an educator." Kiera, Elementary Education

Kiera

Student Testimonials

"I chose UNCW’s Watson College of Education because of the many opportunities Watson provides for aspiring educators to be out in the classroom, using what they have learned." Emily, Special Education

Emily

Student Testimonials

"I love the connections the faculty seek out with their students. They really want you to succeed." Trey, Elementary Education

Trey

Student Testimonials

"I fell in love with Watson, hearing about their study abroad opportunities, early field experience and the Learning Community." Rachel, Elementary Education

Rachel

Student Testimonials

"The people here will help you develop and grow as a person. It is literally the best decision you could make." Marianne, Elementary Education

Marianne

A Place That Feels Like Home

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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
inside of watson college building

Degree Program Finder

Imagine creating a brighter future for students, making a difference in your community and achieving your dream of becoming a teacher. Since 1955, UNCW’s Watson College of Education has been empowering future teachers to impact students in the classroom and beyond. Find the program that’s right for you with our comprehensive guide to undergraduate majors and minors, graduate degrees and certificate options.

Explore all UNCW Programs

WATSON CHRONICLE NEWSLETTER

Learn more about the work of the Watson College including new programs, accomplishments of our faculty, students, alumni and partners, and upcoming events in our bi-monthly Watson Chronicle newsletter.
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Contact Us

Dean Heath, Recruitment Specialist

Phone: (910) 962-3087

heatht@uncw.edu