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Elementary Education, B.A.

Training Teachers, Changing Lives
  • 2

    Programs, On Campus and Distance Ed

  • Day 1

    Applied Learning Opportunities Begin

  • 500+

    Hours in the Classroom Before Graduation

program completion feature
program completion feature

Offers

Dedicated faculty with classroom teaching experience

Extensive field and classroom experiences, with small class sizes with personal attention

Many concentrations and minors to choose from

Fully online program option available

High job placement rates and support beyond graduation

“ 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
Kiera
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Undergraduate UNCW Watson College of Education
Elementary Education Program Overview

DEDICATED FACULTY and HANDS ON LEARNING

The Elementary Education program leads to North Carolina teacher licensure and will prepare you to teach children in grades K-6. You’ll learn to instill a love of learning, teach a variety of subjects and lay the foundation of children’s futures.

At Watson, you’ll learn proven methods as well as groundbreaking new strategies from veteran educators in small class settings that feel personal and collaborative. Beyond our halls, you’ll connect with classroom teachers at partner schools throughout the region and learn to gradually assume the responsibilities of a classroom teacher.

Applied learning opportunities begin with one-on-one tutoring in our on-campus Education Lab, and include field experiences in area classrooms and a full-time internship during your final semester.

CONCENTRATIONS and MINORS

As an Elementary Education major, you can choose from 10 concentrations: Behavioral Studies, English as a Second Language, Early Childhood, Fine Arts, International Studies, Language Arts, Math and Technology, Science and Health, Social Studies or Special Education. We also offer minors in Applied Behavioral Analysis, Leadership Studies, Online Teaching and Learning and Teaching English as a Second Language.

Distance Education

WCE offers an online program for students located within the Southeastern region of North Carolina seeking Elementary Education Certification (grades K-6).

In the Extension Program, all education courses are offered in online modalities. We offer an Onslow Extension Education Laboratory for hands-on tutoring experiences. Students complete field experiences in elementary classrooms in partnership schools.

PERSONALIZED ADVISING

From the time you apply until you receive your diploma, you’ll have a dedicated advisor ready to answer questions, help you make important educational decisions and navigate the process of becoming a licensed teacher. This one-on-one support ensures you’ll have an expert on your side who’s eager to get to know you and the goals you have for your teaching career.

View Student Learning Outcomes
Watson lecturer with two partnership teachers

University-School Partnerships

WCE brings longstanding partnerships with 12 school districts and 2,000+ teachers in SE North Carolina.

A Place That Feels Like Home

Many students say Watson “feels like family.” Join us for exceptional programs, hands-on learning and a community of students, mentors and faculty supporting your journey.

Elementary student lookinig through a viewmaster while a Watson student looks on

Beyond the Classroom

From your first day on campus, you'll find endless ways to engage. Volunteer with student organizations, join the Education Learning Community, connect with classmates, explore our study abroad programs - you'll find the right fit for your goals and make lifelong friends.

Three Watson students wearing a Superman-esuq UNCW cape

We’re With You All the Way

We support new teachers through the First Years of Teaching Support Program, professional development opportunities and on-campus resource libraries. Even after you graduate, we help you achieve career success and make a meaningful impact on your students.

Watson student standing in front of a classroom of elementary students teaching

Sample Courses

Table lists sample courses for this program
EDN 200 Teacher, School & Society
EDN 300 Elementary Program & Practices
EDN 303 Instructional Technology
EDN 322 Number & Algebraic Reasoning & Math Lab
EDN 340 Reading Foundations & Reading Lab
EDN 330 Teaching Diverse Learners
EDN 301 Apprenticeship Field Experience
EDN 419 Internship
See The Full Curriculum

How Do I Apply?

Admission to UNCW and the Watson College of Education is a two-step process. The first step is admission to the university. The second step is admission to the Watson College of Education (WCE).

Students apply to WCE during their sophomore or junior year at UNCW. Transfer students apply during their first or second semester at UNCW.

Program Coordinator

Dr. Lynn Sikma
On-campus program
sikmal@uncw.edu
910.962.7287

Dr. Martin Wasserberg
Online program
wasserbergm@uncw.edu
910.962.2917

Timeline

HS Seniors & Transfer Students Apply to UNCW, visit the Watson College and consider applying for the Education Learning Community to meet other pre-education majors and get a start on field placements. APPLY FOR UNDERGRADUATE ADMISSION
First Year at UNCW Choose courses that compliment your planned major or licensure, attend events at the Watson College, meet with faculty and students, join student organizations and consult with a SSC Advisor. MEET THE SSC TEAM
Second Year at UNCW Collaborate with your Watson College Advisor to review course requirements, continue to arrange experiences that will help you confirm your goals and interests and apply for admission to Watson College. APPLY TO WATSON
Junior Year Begin education coursework, tutor students in the Ed Lab, begin classroom field placements and network with professors, students and teachers who work in your field. EXPLORE FIELD EXPERIENCES
Senior Year Complete a semester-long internship; apply for graduation, pass licensing tests and apply for licensure; attend job fairs, seek Career Center support to perfect your resume and interviewing skills and apply for jobs. VISIT CAREER CENTER
Your Journey Starts Here Learn more about undergraduate studies at the University of North Carolina Wilmington and how to apply for undergraduate admission. Apply Today

Student Opportunities

Education Learning Community

Join 20-25 other first year pre-education students in our Education Learning Community. As a member of the ELC, you’ll make lifelong friendships and get a jump start on your education classes and enrichment experiences.

Watson Student Leaders

WCE’s Watson Student Leaders serve as ambassadors for the Watson College while participating in recruiting, community outreach and social activities. The WSL organization is a powerful way to develop leadership skills, connect with peers and build a network of support.

International Study

Through our international study abroad programs, you’ll have the opportunity to expand your horizons and gain a global perspective as you both work and study in schools throughout the world.

Life on the Coast

North Carolina’s southeast coast is an amazing place to live and work. From the rich history of downtown Wilmington to the beautiful beaches less than six miles from campus, you’ll never run out of places to explore.

Nine students in kayakys posing for a photo
6 Watson students playing around with giant inflatable balls
Group of Watson students wearing matching outdits holding an Education Matters sign
Student relaxing in a hammock under a pier at the beach
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