Frequently Asked Questions for UNCW Degree Seeking Students
- What are the admissions requirements for the Watson College of Education?
- How many transfer credit hours can be used toward completing the UNCW program?
- What transfer courses will apply to my education degree?
- What degree will I get?
- When can I register for my classes?
- What is the Praxis 1?
- If I have already earned a bachelor’s degree, how do I get a license to teach in North Carolina?
- Will I be licensed to teach if I move to another state?
- What is an academic concentration?
What are the admissions requirements for the Watson College of Education?
Students pursuing education of young children, elementary education, middle grades education, special education, or special subjects (i.e., health and physical education, music and foreign language) programs:
- Completion of the university requirements in English, mathematics and a science laboratory course with a grade of "C" (2.00) or better in each course.
- Completion of introductory educational foundations coursework, EDN 200 with a grade of “C” (2.00) or better.
- Completion of 45 credit hours of college level work and a minimum overall grade point average of 2.70 on a 4.00 scale on work attempted at UNCW. Transfer students must earn a 2.70 on a minimum of 12 hours completed at UNCW.
- Passing scores on teacher education entry tests specified and mandated by the Board of Education of the State of North Carolina.
For students pursuing secondary (9-12) licensure the admissions requirements include:
- Completion of the university requirements in English, mathematics and a science laboratory course with a grade of "C" (2.00) or better in each course.
- Completion of 45 credit hours of college level work and a minimum overall grade point average of 2.70 on a 4.00 scale on work attempted at UNCW. Transfer students must earn a 2.70 on a minimum of 12 hours completed at UNCW.
- Passing scores on teacher education entry tests specified and mandated by the Board of Education of the State of North Carolina.
*Secondary students should plan to be admitted to the Watson College of Education in the fall or summer of their sophomore year and begin SEC coursework in the fall of their junior year. Students may only begin the secondary program in the fall semester.
How many transfer credit hours can be used toward completing the UNCW program?
- Up to 64 credit hours can be transferred from two year institutions.
- Up to 93 credit hours can be transferred from four year institutions.
What transfer courses will apply to my education degree?
Once you are accepted and have made arrangements to attend UNCW, the Registrar’s office will evaluate any previous college credit.
You may also take a look at the articulation chart. It shows how courses come into UNCW. You can compare the courses you bring in with those listed on your program sheet, if you are seeking an undergraduate education degree.
What degree will I get?
If you are seeking an undergraduate degree to teach in any of the following areas, you receive a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Education:
- Elementary,
- Middle Grades,
- Special Education (Adapted or General),
- Education of Young Children
If you are seeking an undergraduate degree to teach in any of the following areas, you will receive a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in the specific Subject with Teacher Licensure:
- English
- Math
- Science
- Social Studies
- Music
- French
- Spanish
- or Physical Education
When can I register for my classes?
After acceptance to UNCW you will be invited to an orientation session related to your intended major or program. As part of the orientation, you will be advised about remaining courses to take for completion of your undergraduate degree. At this orientation you will be able to register for your first term(s).
What is the Praxis 1?
Praxis 1 is a required exam that students must take and pass (unless exempt) before being admitted into Watson. Praxis 1 tests reading, writing and math skills. Students can take this exam as many times as needed in order to obtain the minimum passing scores. You do not have to be a UNCW student to take this test. The test is offered at multiple sites, including the UNCW Testing Center. Click here for the Praxis information page for details.
If I have already earned a bachelor’s degree, how do I get a license to teach in North Carolina?
You may follow our Licensure Program or a Master’s Degree program leading to teacher licensure. It is unnecessary to get a second bachelor’s degree.
Will I be licensed to teach if I move to another state?
UNCW's programs are designed to meet or exceed North Carolina Department of Instruction's requirements for state licensure. If you are seeking licensure in another state contact that state's Department of Public Instruction for licensure requirements and procedures.
What is an academic concentration?
It is a group of courses in a subject area outside of education. Elementary Education and Middle Grades students are required to complete academic concentration(s). Click here for more information.