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Online Education & Teaching Degrees in North Carolina: Reviewing Programs

Author: Rebecca Newman
Editor: Ginny Gillikin

In North Carolina, the need for qualified teachers remains strong — according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the state already employs more than 90,000 K–12 educators. In order to begin teaching, however, you must first find the right online degree program and school. This STEPS guide was designed to help you compare top online education and teaching degrees in North Carolina by flexibility, cost, quality, and student outcomes.

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An associate degree is the first level students can earn beyond a high school diploma. Most students complete an education and teaching associate degree program in two years. But, it might take longer, depending on the chosen program. This type of degree helps students learn marketable skills for entry-level education roles like teacher assistant, school administrator, tutor, and library assistant.

Central Piedmont Community College

Central Piedmont Community College (CPCC) offers an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Early Childhood Education degree program. This program is offered in fully online, hybrid, or in-person formats. Students can choose between a professional degree track, a teacher transfer degree track, or a non-licensure degree transfer track. Each of these options allows students to decide how they want to apply an associate degree and determine whether they might seek a bachelor’s degree later.

CPCC has articulation agreements with 22 colleges and universities in North Carolina. These agreements allow students to enroll in a bachelor degree program if they transfer to one of those schools and continue their studies.

Location: Charlotte, NC

Mode: Online, Hybrid, In-Person

Cost: $247 per credit (tuition and fees for in-state students)/$439 (tuition and fees for out-of-state students)

Admissions Requirements:

  • High school diploma or GED
  • North Carolina residency (for in-state tuition)
  • Placement tests (can be waived with appropriate transcripts/existing scores)

Blue Ridge Community College

Blue Ridge Community College offers an Associate in Arts in Teacher Preparation degree program. It’s designed for students who want to earn a bachelor’s degree in education and teaching. The program provides a sturdy foundation in designing appropriately challenging learning experiences and assessments plus engaging teaching practices to support positive outcomes for children.

This 60-credit program offers an array of options to fulfill requirements and gives students the power to choose what they learn. Students with a grade of C or better in each course can transfer as a junior to a North Carolina bachelor’s degree program with an articulation agreement.

Location: Flat Rock, Brevard, or Hendersonville, NC

Mode: Online, In-Person

Cost: $76 per credit hour (tuition for in-state students)/$268 per credit hour (tuition for out-of-state students)

Admissions Requirements:

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Official transcripts
  • North Carolina residency (for in-state tuition)

Wake Tech

Wake Tech offers an Associate in Arts in Teacher Preparation degree program. Students gain skills and knowledge needed to transfer to a bachelor degree program and obtain roles as licensed elementary, middle, high school, or special education teachers. This 60-credit program requires 45 credit hours of general education courses.

Students must complete teacher education courses like Foundations of Education, Literacy Development and Instruction, and Teacher Licensure Preparation. They can transfer as a junior to more than 15 universities in North Carolina to complete a bachelor’s degree.

Location: Raleigh and Morrisville, NC

Mode: Online, Hybrid, In-Person

Cost: $1,824 (tuition for full-time/in-state students)/$6,432 (tuition for full-time/out-of-state students)

Admissions Requirements:

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Official transcripts
  • North Carolina residency (for in-state tuition)

FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:

NC’s Online Education Bachelor’s Programs

A bachelor’s degree in education and teaching is ideal for students who want to explore the theories, policies, and application of education at a more advanced level. These four-year programs expose students to topics such as education ethics, student development, classroom techniques, and subject expertise.

While most students who earn a bachelor’s degree in education become teachers, this type of degree also equips them for careers in library sciences, curriculum development, program coordination, and more.

Campbell University

Campbell University offers both a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Elementary Education degree program and a Bachelor of Science in Special Education degree program. With these fully online programs, students take 124 credits in eight-week terms. This course format breaks down content and allows students to experience one knowledge area before moving on to the next.

All faculty members are licensed teachers in North Carolina. Students can complete their clinical field experience locally, as sites are available across the state. Livestream options are available to foster connection with other students and allow participation in discussions. Whether students choose the Elementary Education track or the Special Education track, they’ll be ready to take teacher licensure exams in North Carolina after graduation.

Location: Buies Creek, NC

Mode: Online

Cost: $465 per credit hour (tuition only)

Admissions Requirements:

  • High school diploma
  • Official transcripts
  • Initial entry assessment/counseling for first-time college students
  • Additional requirements vary by type of student experience.

East Carolina University

East Carolina University’s College of Education offers an array of education and teaching bachelor’s degree programs through Partnership Teach. This online degree completion model is intended to increase the number of high-quality teachers in local communities. Options include degrees in elementary education, middle grades education, and special education, among others.

Though students’ coursework is offered online, they must complete a supervised, full-time internship in a public school in the local area during their senior year. Students can take specialized education classes (depending on their degree’s focus). Most students can complete the remaining required courses in two or three years.

Location: Greenville, NC

Mode: Hybrid

Cost: $7,516 (tuition and fees for in-state students)/$23,793 (tuition and fees for out-of-state students)

Admissions Requirements:

  • High school diploma
  • Official transcripts
  • Application for Partnership Teach
  • General education credits and required courses are completed (for transfer students).

University of North Carolina Wilmington

University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) offers a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Elementary Education degree program. This program features robust in-classroom learning that prepares students for careers as a teacher. It leads to licensure as a teacher in North Carolina for grades K-6.

Students can choose from 10 concentrations, including Behavioral Studies, Early Childhood, Math and Technology, Social Studies, Special Education, and Science and Heath, among others. They can also select a minor like Applied Behavioral Analysis, Leadership Studies, or Online Teaching and Learning.

Location: Wilmington, NC

Mode: Online, In-Person

Cost: $4,443 per year (tuition for full-time/in-state students)/$21,318 (tuition for full-time/out-of-state students)

Admissions Requirements:

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Rigorous coursework in high school
  • For education and teaching degree programs, separate admission to UNCW’s Watson College of Education is required (usually in students’ sophomore/junior year at UNCW, following completion of general education requirements).

Education Master’s Online: A Closer Look

Master’s degrees are designed for students who want to gain specialized skills or pursue advanced careers in education and teaching. These students explore educational theories and policies, curriculum models, and specialized areas of study like special education or adult education.

Some careers (e.g., school counselor) require at least a master’s degree, so students should carefully research requirements in North Carolina for the career they’re interested in. Earning a master’s degree allows students to negotiate higher wages, whether or not a job requires that level of education.

Western Carolina University

Western Carolina University (WCU) offers a variety of Master of Arts in Education degree programs, including programs in Literacy and STEM Education. In these two-year, full-time programs, students must complete 12 credit hours in WCU’s Professional Core curriculum and 18 hours in STEM Education.

These programs prepare students for Advanced Competencies licensure in North Carolina. Graduates are equipped to engage their newly acquired skills in elementary, middle, or secondary grades. So, these programs are great choices for teachers who have a broad interest in STEM or a specific interest in a particular grade level. WCU’s array of master’s degree programs offer three annual start dates and welcome transfer students by allowing transfer credit.

Location: Cullowhee, NC

Mode: Online

Cost: $7,931 per year (tuition and fees for in-state students)/$18,650 per year (tuition and fees for out-of-state students)

Admissions Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university
  • NC Class A Teaching License
  • Letter of intent
  • Three letters of recommendation

University of Mount Olive

The University of Mount Olive’s Master of Education in Educational Leadership degree program is designed for students who are interested in pursuing Principal or Assistant Principal licensure. This 33-credit program is offered fully online. It prepares graduates for roles as school leaders who are needed in public education now.

Students gain executive knowledge and insights beyond acting as an administrator. They must complete two 14-week internships after courses in technology, curriculum, law and ethics, human resources and finance, and educational leadership are completed.

Location: Mount Olive, NC

Mode: Online

Cost: $610 per credit hour (tuition only)

Admissions Requirements:

  • Undergraduate degree from an accredited U.S. or international college or university
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA
  • Four years as licensed professional educator
  • Personal statement
  • Three letters of recommendation

North Carolina State University

North Carolina State University (NCSU) offers a Master of Education (MEd) in Adult and Community College Education degree program. It allows graduates to contribute in a meaningful way by working in education and teaching across the lifespan. This program is offered fully online. Students can choose from three specializations – Adult and Continuing Professional Education, Community College Teaching, or Health Professions Teaching.

Students can be admitted to the program year-round and start in the next available term. This program is designed for working adults. It prepares educators to work as effective teachers for adult learners. They will learn about motivations, barriers, opportunities, and the role of technology and distance education in adult learning.

Location: Raleigh, NC

Mode: Online

Cost: $546.50 per credit hour (tuition for in-state students)/$1,700.56 (tuition for out-of-state students)/

Admissions Requirements:

  • Undergraduate degree from an accredited U.S. or international college or university (in any field)
  • Review of work history, undergraduate GPA, and interest in the field
  • International applicants must earn a Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score of 100 or higher.

Advanced Education: Teaching Doctorates & Graduate Certificates

Doctoral degrees in education and teaching (EdD) serve an array of purposes in career development. This type of degree prepares graduates for advanced career opportunities in educational leadership and teaching. Students gain specialized skills in policy and pedagogy that they can apply to roles such as college professor, district administrator, curriculum director, and more.

An EdD emphasizes educational leadership and advanced teaching roles. A PhD in education and teaching is focused on theory, research, and policymaking. This degree type is ideal for students who want to explore specialized areas of education through a theoretical lens and conduct research on educational best practices.

Graduate certificates are earned through short-term programs that are focused on a particular specialty. A certificate program usually takes less than a year to complete and is ideal for professionals who want to learn a new skill, make a slight career pivot, or stay up to date in their field.

Western Carolina University

Western Carolina University (WCU) offers a Doctor of Education (EdD) in Education Leadership degree program. This Carnegie-influenced program for working professionals can be completed in three years. Students must complete 53 credits. They participate in a cohort that meets for one weekend each month and continue discourse with online assignments and discussions.

Students take two courses per semester, including summers. This includes courses in their desired concentration area (higher education or PK-12). WCU’s program is designed for educators who strive for continuous improvement and commit to social justice and student-centered decision-making.

Location: Asheville, NC

Mode: Hybrid

Cost: $7,931 per year (tuition and fees for in-state students)/$18,650 per year (tuition and fees for out-of-state students)

Admissions Requirements:

  • Official transcripts for all graduate work
  • 3.5 GPA (recommended)
  • Application letter with objectives for completing an EdD
  • Resume that highlights leadership experience
  • Three references
  • Interview and writing exercise

University of North Carolina at Greensboro

The University of North Carolina (UNC) at Greensboro offers a PhD in Educational Studies degree program that features a concentration in Higher Education. This program is offered fully online. Students can complete the 60-credit program either full- or part-time, generally in three to five years. Full-time students can serve as graduate research assistants while enrolled in the program.

Online coursework allows maximum flexibility for working professionals. It lets students attend classes virtually, which increases variety in discussions and related experiences. In addition to core courses, students must complete courses in research methodology, courses in their specialty area, and dissertation credits.

Location: Greensboro, NC

Mode: Online

Cost: $8,614 per year (tuition and fees for in-state students)/$23,328 tuition and fees for out-of-state students)

Admissions Requirements:

  • Personal statement
  • Resume or CV
  • Writing sample from graduate-level work
  • Three letters of recommendation (one from a current or former professor)
  • Interview and writing exercise

Appalachian State University

Appalachian State University offers an Elementary Education Graduate Certificate program. It’s designed for students who earned a bachelor’s degree in an area of interest and want to pivot to a career in teaching. Students can complete coursework and other experiences to prepare for licensure as a teacher.

After taking courses part-time over 21 months, graduates earn an A-level teaching license in North Carolina. The program blends synchronous and asynchronous content that is delivered online. Students can learn at their own pace while connecting with others in their cohort to increase understanding of course materials.

Location: Boone, NC

Mode: Online (synchronous and asynchronous)

Cost: $327.11 per credit hour (tuition and fees for in-state students)/$1,253.28 per credit hour (tuition and fees for out-of-state students)

Admissions Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university (in a discipline related to student’s chosen teaching area)
  • Transcripts from previous schools
  • Minimum 2.7 GPA
  • Resume
  • Personal statement
  • Application to Graduate School

NC Education and Teaching Student FAQs

Can I earn an education and teaching degree fully online in North Carolina?

You can complete coursework fully online for some of the degree programs highlighted above. However, any program that offers teaching certification will require an on-site teaching practicum, as well. You’ll need to work with your school to identify a suitable site and supervisor. You must complete the requisite number of student teaching hours to complete a degree and obtain teaching certification.

How do I get a license to become a teacher in North Carolina?

The standards for becoming a teacher in North Carolina are listed on the NC Department of Public Instruction website. You can earn a teaching certification at the bachelor’s degree or master’s degree level, if you’ve completed sufficient coursework that is specific to education and practicum teaching experience.

Teachers who are already licensed in another state can apply for a reciprocity license. This lets you verify previous experience and apply for a license in North Carolina. Check out more information about applying for an NC Educator License.

Can I teach in North Carolina without a teaching license?

While you might be able to obtain a position without credentials or with an emergency certification (if a school needs an educator immediately), you’ll eventually need a teaching license. Though the process of applying for licensure might feel tedious, it’s an important step. It ensures that students across the state receive an education that meets certain standards and that you are an effective teacher.

Private and parochial schools might have different licensure requirements. You should prioritize going through the licensure process to guarantee stability in your career.

Which types of teachers are most in-demand?

All types of teachers are in-demand. However, those with a passion for core areas like math, science, and English will likely experience the most stability in their career. Teachers with other interests – like foreign language, information technology, or other curriculum areas – might want to take more specialization courses so they can offer more experience to a school district.

Though you might want to teach only general education courses, you should consider taking some courses on special education to widen the variety of students you can support in a classroom.

How will I pay for an education and teaching degree? Can I apply for financial aid or scholarships?

Earning an education and teaching degree in North Carolina doesn’t have put you in debt. Many financial aid options and scholarships are available to students who are pursuing this type of degree. In addition to state funding, you might be eligible for financial aid through your university, like that offered by the College of Education at North Carolina State University.

You should always start the financial aid process by completing a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. Apply to as many funding opportunities – grants, scholarships, and work-study programs – as possible. You can also explore both need-based and merit-based scholarships.

Salary and Career Potential: North Carolina Educators/Teachers

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Area ↕ Occupation ↕ 10th Percentile ↕ 90th Percentile ↕ Median ↕
North Carolina Elementary School Teachers $39,400 $62,970 $50,200
North Carolina Kindergarten Teachers $38,280 $64,100 $50,040
North Carolina Middle School Teachers $39,640 $63,780 $50,820
North Carolina Secondary School Teachers $40,370 $64,120 $51,060
North Carolina Teachers and Instructors $33,900 $98,700 $54,040

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.

Area ↕ Occupation ↕ Curr. Jobs ↕ Proj. Jobs ↕ New Jobs ↕ Growth % ↕
North Carolina Elementary School Teachers 40,780 43,970 3,190 7.80%
North Carolina Kindergarten Teachers 3,040 3,260 220 7.20%
North Carolina Middle School Teachers 18,750 20,250 1,500 8.00%
North Carolina Postsecondary Teachers 2,790 3,140 350 12.50%
North Carolina Secondary School Teachers 27,300 29,520 2,220 8.10%
North Carolina Teachers and Instructors 1,860 2,010 150 8.10%

Source: Projections Central

Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.

More Ways to Succeed: Resources for Education and Teaching Students and Professionals

The state of North Carolina offers many resources for education and teaching students and graduates. The resources listed below include professional organizations, supplemental curricula, licensing guides, and research materials to help you become the most effective teacher you can be.

  • Friday Institute – Online Professional Learning for Educators: The Friday Institute provides free courses for North Carolina educators to help improve classroom instruction and professional development. Certificates are available to those who complete their courses.
  • NC Environmental Education: Not all education takes place in the classroom. Check out these resources for supporting environmental education in a variety of settings. Included is advice for field trips, curricula, and lesson plans, plus a program about the River Basin and its impact on North Carolina.
  • NC LIVE: This is an education database for teacher resources. It features a robust eLibrary; the ability to search for articles, e-books, and videos for K-12 instruction; plus ProQuest research tools and access to open textbooks for North Carolina’s most frequently taught courses in colleges and universities.
  • North Carolina Department of Public Instruction: Check out these classroom resources from the state of North Carolina, including curriculum and learning areas plus relevant professional publications and textbooks.
  • North Carolina Teachers of Tomorrow: This is a teaching licensure program that equips participants with personalized licensing options, pre-classroom training, personal coaching, and other helpful resources for future teachers in North Carolina.
  • Professional Educators of North Carolina (PENC): Members of PENC have access to important resources regarding legal rights for teachers, retirement planning, salary guides, and practical tips for solving common classroom challenges. Members can also partake in policy-making initiatives.
  • State Library of North Carolina: Students and educators can take advantage of NCPedia, a free online encyclopedia about North Carolina, and ANCHOR for students, a culmination of primary and secondary source documents.
  • Student North Carolina Association of Educators (SNCAE): As the state’s largest advocacy organization for public school educators, the NCAE supports its members by providing professional development opportunities, legal assistance, financial planning, and more.
  • Teach NC: This organization aims to simplify the process for becoming a teacher in North Carolina by providing a one-stop shop for teaching resources. Aspiring educators can easily find information on licenses, financial aid, coaching, job opportunities, and more.
  • Tools4NCTeachers: This website offers supplemental resources that meet North Carolina standards. Resources for students in grades K-8 are compiled by a group of industry professionals to ensure their value and relevance in the classroom.

Ranking North Carolina’s Top Education and Teaching Schools

Some great online education and teaching degree programs are available in North Carolina, including flexible and affordable learning options. Online learning saves students money by eliminating costs (e.g., transportation, course materials, etc.) associated with on-campus learning.

Online learning is an ideal option for students who are currently working or want a more customized schedule. While many online classes are offered asynchronously, some programs feature synchronous classes. Students should research these formats when searching for an education and teaching degree program, so they can choose one that aligns with their preferences.

1

University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Greensboro, North Carolina

Why We Selected University of North Carolina at Greensboro:
The Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in College Teaching at The University of North Carolina at Greensboro enhances teaching skills for active college educators through three 7-week courses (9 credits) focused on educational trends, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and observed teaching experiences. Participants may pursue CAST UDL credentials, and UNCG faculty/staff can use tuition waivers. The program prepares educators for instructional leadership roles and adapting to emerging technologies and pedagogies in higher education.
Program Highlights
  • Current UNCG faculty and staff can use their annual Employee Tuition/Fee Waiver for this program.
  • The program incorporates experiential learning opportunities like Safe Zone and Web Accessibility training.
  • CAST Credentials in UDL Mindset, Analysis, and Application are encouraged for comprehensive educational skills.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$4,422
  • Average Grant Aid$3,140
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid65%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid86%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio17/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course82%
2

University of Mount Olive

Mount Olive, North Carolina

Why We Selected University of Mount Olive:
The University of Mount Olive offers a comprehensive Education Teaching degree program aligned with North Carolina’s Professional Teaching Standards. This program requires 120 credits, typically completed over four years. Applicants must submit a completed application and proof of high school graduation. The annual tuition is $15,750 for all students, with financial aid options available. Graduates are prepared for licensure in areas like Elementary Education (K–6), Health and Physical Education (K–12), and Special Education. The curriculum integrates theory and practical experiences, preparing graduates for diverse educational roles.
Program Highlights
  • The University of Mount Olive's Master of Education program offers a unique opportunity for accelerated completion, allowing students to earn their degree in just one year.
  • Students benefit from individualized program designs that cater to specific educational leadership needs, enhancing their professional skills and career opportunities.
  • UMO's close partnerships with local school districts provide extensive real-life application experiences, increasing clinical placement rates for graduates.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$21,618
  • Average Grant Aid$10,547
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid97%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid100%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio14/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course78%
3

East Carolina University

Greenville, North Carolina

Why We Selected East Carolina University:
East Carolina University’s teacher education programs prepare educators for successful careers. The College of Education offers programs in Elementary Education, Special Education, and more, with program specifics varying by degree. Admission typically requires a strong academic background. Students transitioning from community college can utilize the Partnership Teach program for streamlined bachelor’s degree completion. Financial support includes scholarships up to $700,000 annually. Graduates pursue careers in teaching, leadership, and related fields, with opportunities for National Board certification and roles in public schools. ECU graduates are highly regarded in the field.
Program Highlights
  • East Carolina University's program offers collaborative partnerships with real-world educational settings for hands-on experience.
  • The Educator Preparation Program provides extensive guidance from experienced classroom teachers and professionals.
  • East Carolina's clinically based model ensures high moral and ethical standards through its Code of Ethics and Technical Standards.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$4,452
  • Average Grant Aid$3,766
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid44%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid80%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio18/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course74%
4

Isothermal Community College

Spindale, North Carolina

Why We Selected Isothermal Community College:
Isothermal Community College offers an Associate in Arts and an Associate in Science in Teacher Preparation, fulfilling general education requirements for transfer to four-year institutions. These two-year programs require 60 credits, providing foundational knowledge for K-12 teaching. Rutherford and Polk county residents may qualify for tuition-free options through the Powers Promise. Admission requires a high school diploma or equivalent. The curriculum emphasizes early field experiences, including observations and mini-lessons from the first semester. Graduates can pursue teaching careers, addressing North Carolina’s projected need for 200,000 additional teachers by 2025.
Program Highlights
  • Isothermal Community College offers a unique opportunity for prospective students through its significant scholarships, allowing for tuition-free education for eligible students.
  • The program boasts online courses that provide flexibility, enabling students to complete their degrees at an accelerated pace while maintaining work or personal commitments.
  • With a remarkable 95% financial aid rate for full-time students, Isothermal ensures affordability and support throughout the educational journey.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$1,824
  • Average Grant Aid$1,575
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid49%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid96%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio12/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course79%
5

Elizabeth City State University

Elizabeth City, North Carolina

Why We Selected Elizabeth City State University:
Elizabeth City State University offers a Master of Education in Elementary Education with two tracks: Teacher Leader and Initial Certification. The program requires between 37 and 40 credit hours, depending on the track chosen. Admissions require a bachelor’s degree, transcripts, a minimum GPA of 2.5 or relevant experience, and additional documents like essays and recommendations. Students must meet residency requirements. Career pathways include teacher leadership roles and initial certification for K-6 teaching, aligning with North Carolina educational standards. The program emphasizes collaborative and leadership skills, preparing students for advanced roles in education.
Program Highlights
  • Elizabeth City State University offers affordable tuition options, enhancing accessibility for prospective students.
  • The program provides specialized tracks, including Teacher Leader and Initial Certification, catering to diverse career goals.
  • Accelerated completion options are available, allowing students to finish their degrees more quickly.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$1,000
  • Average Grant Aid$3,362
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid68%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid97%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio16/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course66%
6

University of North Carolina at Pembroke

Pembroke, North Carolina

Why We Selected University of North Carolina at Pembroke:
The University of North Carolina at Pembroke offers a Master of Arts in Teaching with a specialization in Elementary Education, providing a pathway for initial teaching licensure in North Carolina. The program typically lasts from 14 to 20 months and requires 30 credits. Tuition for in-state students is $9,227, while out-of-state students pay $30,992. Admission requires a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75. The program focuses on teaching strategies for diverse learners and includes field experience. Graduates are prepared for roles like elementary school teachers and Teacher Leaders, with financial aid available.
Program Highlights
  • Affordable tuition and various scholarship options enhance financial accessibility for prospective students.
  • Specialized online education programs offer flexibility for working professionals to enhance their career prospects.
  • UNCP's strong partnerships with local schools ensure practical experience and networking opportunities for educator trainees.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$1,000
  • Average Grant Aid$2,299
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid40%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid91%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course76%
7

North Carolina Central University

Durham, North Carolina

Why We Selected North Carolina Central University:
The Elementary Education Second Degree Program at North Carolina Central University prepares students for a career in teaching through a rigorous curriculum that integrates content knowledge, skills, and pedagogy. This program is designed for individuals with a non-education bachelor’s degree, requiring 30 to 60 credit hours. It emphasizes diverse cultural contexts and includes extensive field experiences and assessments for licensure. Graduates are eligible for an initial K-6 teaching license in North Carolina, supporting career advancement in traditional and charter schools. For tuition and scholarship details, prospective students should explore NCCU’s resources.
Program Highlights
  • The program offers flexibility through a fully online format, benefiting working professionals.
  • NCCU's strong employer partnerships enhance job placement opportunities for graduates.
  • The school's emphasis on diverse cultural contexts prepares students for inclusive teaching environments.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$3,728
  • Average Grant Aid$3,233
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid77%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid96%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course61%
8

Western Carolina University

Cullowhee, North Carolina

Why We Selected Western Carolina University:
The graduate programs in literacy and STEM education at Western Carolina University are designed for teachers seeking advanced degrees. These programs require 30 credit hours, including core, track, and capstone courses, focusing on developing research skills and content area knowledge. Completion leads to a Master of Arts in Education degree with recommendation for Advanced Competencies licensure. The program typically takes two years and offers financial aid options. Graduates are well-positioned for leadership roles in school systems. Admissions require a teaching license and submission through the Western Carolina University Graduate School’s online application system.
Program Highlights
  • The Elementary Education program at Western Carolina University emphasizes a year-long internship in public schools, enhancing practical experience and job readiness.
  • WCU offers competitive financial support through various scholarships and one of the lowest tuition rates in the nation, making education affordable.
  • The program boasts high teacher placement rates, with graduates securing roles in diverse educational settings and leadership positions rapidly.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$1,000
  • Average Grant Aid$2,310
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid64%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid86%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course54%
9

Rockingham Community College

Wentworth, North Carolina

Why We Selected Rockingham Community College:
The Elementary Education Residency Licensure at Richmond Community College develops general pedagogical competencies necessary for teacher certification by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. Core studies include learning theory, educational technology, diverse learners, and classroom management, with additional steps like pre-service training and passing state assessments required. Admission requires unofficial transcripts and a letter of employment or promised placement. Financial aid options and scholarships, such as the TeachNC Test Prep, are available. Prospective teachers benefit from partnerships with local school divisions, offering guided pathways and potential job placement with further education.
Program Highlights
  • RichmondCC offers courses with no additional fees for distance learning.
  • Richmond Community College provides full access to student services regardless of location.
  • The college offers a range of online and hybrid programs for flexible education needs.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$1,824
  • Average Grant Aid$454
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid66%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid88%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio11/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course67%
10

University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Charlotte, North Carolina

Why We Selected University of North Carolina at Charlotte:
The University of North Carolina at Charlotte offers a B.A. in Elementary Education for teacher assistants (TAs) aiming to become licensed teachers. The program spans two years, covering Kindergarten to Grade 6, with a focus on curricular planning and diverse student strategies. It requires 63 credit hours plus one semester of student teaching. The program aligns with North Carolina Professional Teaching Standards and provides a cohesive cohort structure, allowing TAs to work while studying. Graduates become eligible for an Initial Professional Educator’s License, with tuition costing approximately $189.48 per credit hour for in-state residents.
Program Highlights
  • Program offers flexible, affordable online education tailored for working professionals nationwide.
  • The program enhances professional skills through its expert faculty and mentorship.
  • It provides access to the Niner network for lifelong career support.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$3,812
  • Average Grant Aid$4,377
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid48%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid76%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio20/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course69%
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Rebecca Newman AUTHOR

Rebecca (MSW, LCS) is a psychotherapist and writer in Philadelphia, specializing in working with and content about eating disorders, anxiety, depression, infertility, substance abuse, grief and loss, gender and sexuality, trauma, and adjustment to life changes. She earned a BA in Creative Writing from Oberlin College and an MSW from the University of Pennsylvania, where she received the John Hope Franklin Award for Combating American Racism.

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Ginny Gillikin EDITOR

Ginny Gillikin is a detail-oriented and dedicated professional with over 3 years of experience as a copy editor. She enjoys editing and fact-checking informative and engaging content for healthcare and nursing education websites. Ginny earned a Communication/Print Journalism BA degree and an English minor from Virginia Tech.

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