Skip to header Skip to Content Skip to Footer
Front of exterior watson college
img_30

Applied Learning & Research

Applied Learning & Research

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. Undergraduate and graduate students will also find opportunities to study abroad and participate in research.

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!

Applied Learning for Future Teachers

Two students smiling while talking in classroom Professional Experiences Our Professional Experiences Office coordinates thousands of field placements and hundreds of internships in area schools each year. This gives future teachers the opportunity to experience a variety of supportive, professional settings during your educational journey. LEARN MORE
Students pose with campus graffiti rock Education Lab Our unique on-campus Education Lab is a distinguishing feature of WCE’s teacher education programs. Here, students have an opportunity to practice strategies and skills, teaching a child in a one-on-one setting even before field placements begin. VISIT THE ED LAB
Two youth students holding up their art projects Curriculum Materials Center The CMC, located next to the Ed Lab, connects students with valuable teaching resources. The CMC also hosts a makerspace, and offers hands-on instruction to help future teachers apply creativity to enhance lesson plans and engage with learners. VISIT THE CMC

APPLIED LEARNING FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS

WCE provides many authentic learning opportunities for students enrolled in graduate-level programs. Opportunities vary by program, so check with your advisor or program coordinator for details. Here are a few examples:

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 Candidates

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.

INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS AND RESEARCH

At UNCW, you'll find many opportunities to learn outside the classroom. International programs, research projects and student organizations all provide great ways to expand your horizons, develop new skills and build a professional network.

Study Abroad

Exploring different ideas, cultures and methodologies is critical in our changing world. We encourage students to discover those differences firsthand through international experiences that provide an opportunity to both work and study in schools around the world.

LEARN MORE >

Research

UNCW is proud to engage students in research and creative discovery. Whether you are an undergraduate or graduate student, you can gain hands-on experience in your field by partnering with faculty and graduate students on research projects.

LEARN MORE >

And More!

Student organizations, the career center, educator support and alumni engagement programs provide many additional ways to get – and stay – connected.

LEARN MORE >

Watson college in Amsterdam
People talking at a fair
Sammy Seahawk reading a book in a classroom
top