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Secondary Education Teacher Licensure

Developing Leaders for High School and Beyond
  • 4

    Licensure Areas Offered: English, Science, Mathematics and Social Studies

  • Day 1

    Applied Learning Opportunities Begin

  • 500+

    Hours in the Classroom Before Graduation

program completion feature
program completion feature

Offers

Small class sizes with personal attention and guidance

Dedicated secondary faculty

Extensive field experiences integrated throughout the program

Vibrant student organizations and international study opportunities

High job placement rates and support beyond graduation

“ The skills professors taught and advice they offered prepared us. My favorite thing about teaching is every day is different. ”
Emilee Curtis Higdon ’18 HS English Teacher, NC’s 2021 Beginning Teacher of the Year
Emilee Curtis Higdon ’18, HS English Teacher, NC’s 2021 Beginning Teacher of the Year
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Join these students who have found their home at UNCW's Watson College of Education.
Secondary Education Teacher Licensure Program Overview

High School Teachers in Demand

Teaching high school is an incredibly rewarding profession that allows you to have an influence on students' development at a crucial stage in their lives. The need for North Carolina high school teachers is great, especially in the areas of science and mathematics. This program will prepare you to teach high school (grades 9-12) in a variety of educational settings, including traditional high schools and small "alternative" high schools in urban, suburban and rural environments.

Training and Experience

Our licensure program provides a pathway for undergraduates to earn a North Carolina A-level license to teach students in grades 9-12. The two-year licensure program is designed for students who are simultaneously completing a degree through the College of Humanities, Social Sciences, and the Arts. Programs leading to teacher licensure are offered in the fields of biology, chemistry, physics, environmental science, geology, English, anthropology, history, sociology, political science and mathematics.

Cohort Model

The program is offered in a cohort model, designed to provide a strong community of support for students preparing to become high school teachers. Other distinctive features of the program include collaborative learning environments, small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and extensive field and classroom experiences, including a full-time internship during the final semester.

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

Courses

Block 1 – Fall Admissions

Table shows sample courses in Block 1
SEC 200 Teaching Schools & Global Society
SEC 210 Diverse Learners in Secondary Schools
SEC 220 Practicum Block 1

Block 2 – Spring Pre-Methods

Table shows sample courses in Block 2
SEC 310 Curriculum Design & Learning Assessment
SEC 320 Practicum Block 2

Block 3 – Fall Methods

Table shows sample courses in Block 3
SEC 403-7 Theory & Practice in Teaching Secondary 9-12
SEC 410 ESL Topics for Secondary Teachers
SEC 421 Practicum Block 3

Block 4 – Spring Internship

Table shows sample courses in Block 4
SEC 430 Seminar - Leadership, Reflection & Management Practices
SEC 431 Practicum (12)
See The Full Curriculum

How Do I Apply?

Admission to the Secondary Education program at UNCW is a two-step process. The first step is admission to the university. Once admitted, you will begin taking courses in the College of Science and Engineering (CSE) or the College of Humanities, Social Sciences, and the Arts (CHSSA) in your chosen content area.

Students interested in secondary education teacher licensure will take the second step and apply to the Watson College of Education (WCE) during their sophomore or junior year at UNCW. Transfer students apply during their first semester at UNCW.

Program Coordinator

Dr. Denise Ousley-Exum
ousleyd@uncw.edu
910.962.7175

Timeline

HS Seniors & Transfer Students Apply to UNCW, visit the campus and explore the many opportunities for involvement and learning at UNCW. APPLY FOR UNDERGRADUATE ADMISSION
First Year at UNCW Choose your major, begin classes in the College of Arts and Sciences, and visit the Watson College to learn more about our Secondary Education program. LEARN MORE
Second Year at UNCW Continue to grow through additional courses in your major and meet with the Watson College Program Coordinator to learn more about our secondary education program. Contact Coordinator
Third Year at UNCW Apply for admission to the Watson College, begin secondary education coursework, begin classroom field placements and network with professors, students and teachers who work in your field. APPLY TO WATSON
Fourth Year at UNCW Complete a year-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

For Program Details See The

Secondary Education Program

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