Associate of Arts & Associate of Science in Teacher Preparation
The Associate in Arts and the Associate of Science in Teacher Preparation degrees prepare individuals who desire to become K-12 educators for transfer. These transfer degrees will provide students with a program of study comprised of college transfer courses and a small concentration of education coursework. The general education courses provide students with a well-rounded education focusing on the humanities, STEM subjects, and the social behavioral sciences. The education concentration includes an overview of the American educational system; an introduction to teaching and learning concepts that are developmentally appropriate, effective, inclusive, and culturally responsive to all children; literacy development and instructional strategies to support all learners; and an introduction to the teacher licensure process. The remainder of the degree program will focus on general education outcomes with individualized education plans to support the student’s desired grade level and content area foci.
The Associate of Arts in Teacher Preparation degree is appropriate for students who desire to teach:
- Elementary Education (K-6), Middle Grades Education (6-8) in non-STEM subject areas
- Secondary Education (9-12) in non-STEM areas, as well as other
- Specialized content areas such as Special Education.
The Associate of Science in Teacher Preparation degree is appropriate for students who desire to teach:
- Middle Grades Education (6-8) in STEM subject areas
- Secondary Education (9-12) in STEM subject areas.
Graduates are prepared to transfer to a senior institution to complete their pursuit of the necessary bachelor’s degree and earn an NC Teaching License in the grade level and content area of their choosing. Students must meet applicable admissions criteria and policies designated by, and earn admission into the education programs at the senior institution as published by each university’s schools of education programs.
The Comprehensive Articulation Agreement (CAA) and the Independent Comprehensive Articulation Agreement (ICAA) enable North Carolina community college graduates of two-year associate in arts programs who are admitted to constituent institutions of the University of North Carolina and to signatory institutions of North Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities to transfer with junior status.
Community college graduates must obtain a grade of “C” or better in each course and an overall GPA of at least 2.7 on a 4.0 scale in order to transfer with junior status. Courses may also transfer through bilateral agreements between institutions.
