M.A. in English
The Master of Arts (M.A.) in English at UNCW is a flexible and student-centered program...
M.A. in Teaching - Elementary Education (K-Grade 6)
Wilmington, North Carolina
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.A.T. in Elementary Education (K-6) at UNCW is an intensive, typically 16-month program that offers both a traditional main campus face-to-face track and a distance learning/online track. Both options prepare candidates to teach children in grades K-6 and lead to an M-level North Carolina teaching license upon successful completion of the program and licensure requirements. The program emphasizes a collaborative learning environment, supported by dedicated faculty with practical classroom experience, and boasts high job placement rates, along with continued support for graduates beyond their time at UNCW. Cohorts are kept intentionally small to foster a strong sense of community and personalized attention.
Curriculum: The curriculum is meticulously designed to build the pedagogical knowledge, skills, and dispositions essential for effective elementary teaching. Core courses delve into advanced elementary grades education, research-based instructional design, integrated curriculum, and advanced language and literacy. Key areas of study include elementary-grades mathematics, social studies, language development, diagnostic and prescriptive reading, and assessment and evaluation. Applied learning experiences are integrated throughout the program, culminating in a full-time internship during the final semester. This practical component ensures students apply theoretical knowledge in real-world classroom settings under the guidance of mentor teachers and faculty supervisors.
Research Focus: As an R2: Doctoral University – High Research Activity institution, UNCW encourages research that informs and improves educational practices. Within the M.A.T. in Elementary Education program, the research focus is applied and practical, aiming to develop teacher-researchers. Students are trained to analyze qualitative and quantitative patterns of learning, using evidence to evaluate and adapt their teaching practices based on current educational research and theories. While not primarily a theoretical research degree, the program equips future educators with the ability to engage with and contribute to research-based methodologies, ensuring their instructional practices are informed by the latest pedagogical findings.
Industry Engagement: The Watson College of Education at UNCW prides itself on longstanding partnerships with numerous school districts and over 2,000 teachers across Southeastern North Carolina. This extensive network facilitates invaluable industry engagement for M.A.T. students. Field placements, including a significant full-time internship, occur in K-6 public education settings, allowing students to collaborate closely with practicing teachers, tutor students, and engage with parents. The program actively connects students with the local educational community, providing opportunities for professional development and practical experience that directly translates to classroom readiness and high job placement rates. The university also offers support programs for new teachers, recognizing the importance of sustained professional growth.
Global Perspective: While the M.A.T. in Elementary Education at UNCW primarily focuses on preparing teachers for the North Carolina public school system, the broader university and the Watson College of Education emphasize preparing educators to serve diverse student populations, including those from multicultural backgrounds. The curriculum often incorporates components on addressing the cultural and linguistic needs of all students, including English Language Learners. The university's overall commitment to global engagement, through various international programs and a diverse student body, indirectly enriches the learning environment for future educators by fostering an understanding of varied cultural contexts and learning styles, crucial for teaching in increasingly diverse classrooms.
Location
Wilmington, North Carolina
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 24198
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
The University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) offers a variety of scholarship opportunities designed to support and attract talented international students. These scholarships aim to make education more affordable while recognizing academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement.
Merit-Based Scholarships: UNCW provides merit scholarships for international students based on academic achievements, standardized test scores, and other criteria. These awards can significantly reduce tuition costs and are often renewable for multiple years based on maintaining good academic standing.
International Student Scholarships: Specific scholarships are available exclusively for international students, such as the International Student Scholarship which rewards outstanding academic performance and leadership qualities. Eligibility and award amounts vary each year, encouraging prospective students to apply early.
Departmental Scholarships: Many academic departments at UNCW offer scholarships targeted to students within their programs, including international students. These scholarships recognize excellence in fields such as business, marine science, and the arts, and often require separate applications or nominations.
External Scholarships and Financial Aid: UNCW encourages international students to explore additional funding options through external organizations, governments, and private foundations. The university’s financial aid office provides guidance on locating and applying for these scholarships.
A Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) in Elementary Education (K-Grade 6) from the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) provides a direct pathway to becoming a licensed and highly skilled elementary school teacher. This advanced degree not only confers the necessary qualifications for teaching in public school systems but also equips graduates with enhanced pedagogical skills, leadership potential, and the ability to contribute to curriculum development. While the primary career goal is to become an elementary classroom teacher, the comprehensive training and practical experience gained from UNCW's Watson College of Education open doors to various related roles within the broader educational landscape.
Elementary School Teacher (K-6): This is the most direct and common career path. Graduates are prepared to teach all subjects to children in kindergarten through sixth grade, creating engaging lesson plans, managing classrooms, and fostering a positive learning environment. The M.A.T. often leads to higher starting salaries and increased earning potential within school districts.
Reading Specialist/Literacy Coach: With specialized training in literacy development and instruction, graduates can work as reading specialists or literacy coaches. They support students struggling with reading, develop school-wide literacy programs, and provide professional development to other teachers on effective reading strategies.
Instructional Coordinator/Curriculum Developer: Leveraging their advanced knowledge of curriculum design and pedagogical methods, graduates can work at the school or district level to develop, implement, and evaluate educational programs and curricula. They ensure alignment with state standards and best practices.
Special Education Teacher (Elementary Level): While the M.A.T. in Elementary Education focuses on general education, the program often includes coursework on diverse learners. With additional certification or experience, graduates can specialize in teaching students with disabilities in inclusive or self-contained elementary classrooms.
Gifted Education Specialist: For those interested in working with advanced learners, an M.A.T. can lead to a role as a gifted education specialist, designing differentiated instruction and enriched programs to meet the unique needs of academically or intellectually gifted elementary students.
Educational Technology Specialist: As technology becomes increasingly integral to classrooms, graduates with an M.A.T. can specialize in integrating educational technology, training other teachers on new tools, and managing digital learning resources within a school.
School-Based Interventionist: These professionals work with small groups or individual students who require additional support in specific academic areas (e.g., math interventionist, behavior interventionist), applying targeted strategies to help students succeed.
Professional Development Trainer for Educators: Drawing on their classroom experience and advanced understanding of pedagogy, graduates can design and deliver professional development workshops for other teachers, focusing on new instructional strategies, classroom management, or curriculum implementation.
Early Childhood Education Director: For those with an interest in leadership in early learning, an M.A.T. can serve as a foundation for managing preschools or childcare centers, overseeing staff, curriculum, and operations for younger children.
Educational Consultant (Private/Non-profit): The expertise gained in an M.A.T. program can be applied to consulting roles, advising schools, educational organizations, or even parents on curriculum, teaching strategies, or student learning, often on a project basis.
