Watson College of Education

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

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

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

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

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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Student Success Center (SSC)

The Student Success Center (SSC) serves as a resource for all current and prospective students interested in a teaching career. SSC assists students with admission to programs, academic advising, scholarships and career planning. They can also provide information on UNCW student organizations and help to connect you with resources across campus.

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A Place That Feels Like Home

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.

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Get Started!

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

News & Events

Watson Preview Day

Prospective students interested in a teaching career are invited to visit us for Watson Preview Day. This is a Saturday morning event open to high school students, transfer students, and their friends and family. Highlights include an overview of Watson programs, a student panel discussion, and a tour our unique Ed Lab and CMC spaces located in the Education Building.

RSVP to the event

Future Teacher Conference

The Future Teacher Conference is an opportunity for High Schools, Community Colleges, and Home School groups to bring students to UNCW. This is a day where students who have an interest in education can feel what it is like to be a Watson Student.

Learn more about FTC

Watson Connect

UNCW students: Join us on August 28, 2024 for Watson Connect! Drop by the Ed Building any time between 11am-2pm to learn about our teacher education programs and the many minors we offer, including programs like leadership studies and Esports, open to all UNCW students. Explore our unique Ed Lab, CMC and Student Success Center and learn about clubs/orgs/field experiences and much more! FREE EXCLUSIVE T-SHIRT AND GAMES!!

Questions?

Watson Mini Sessions

Are you interested in learning about undergraduate or graduate opportunities at Watson? Watson offers quick, informational sessions that might help answer some questions you may have about teaching, living in a learning community, Watson College, or information about graduate school!

Watson Mini Sessions