Alternative Teaching Certification Programs in North Carolina
Many people in the education community have heard of alternative certification, but are you familiar with lateral entry? That’s North Carolina’s term for entering the teaching profession through an alternate route. Lateral entry is authorized through the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, and the department website lays out a clear path to the classroom.
Individuals who wish to acquire a lateral entry license must have a bachelor’s degree or above from a regionally accredited college or university. Additional requirements are detailed on the website.
How to become a teacher in North Carolina
Lateral entry candidates with expertise in the areas of math, science and special education likely will find high demand for their skills as the U.S. Department of Education reports that North Carolina currently has a shortage of teachers in those areas.
Regardless of their content area, lateral entry candidates who want a helping hand on their journey into the classroom should consider working with one of the state’s Regional Alternative Licensing Centers (RALC). RALCs don’t take the place of an approved college course of study, but, rather, act as a complement by prescribing an individualized course of study, evaluating applications, and providing training opportunities through local school systems. RALCs are located in Charlotte/Cabarrus, Fayetteville, Elm City, and Catawba. There is no fee, and individuals may complete coursework through the regionally accredited college or university of their choice.
If you’re looking for an even faster path to full licensure and are willing to teach in one of North Carolina’s high-need school districts or charter schools, NC Teach II was designed for you. Since its inception in 2000, 1300 teachers working in 85 counties throughout the state have received professional licensure through NC Teach, according to the College Foundation of North Carolina.
To be eligible, candidates must be accepted into the NC Teach program by a qualified host university. Candidates may then begin teaching full-time in an eligible public or charter school while continuing to attend NC Teach classes and seminars at host universities to earn full professional licensure, usually within one year. Be aware that NC Teach candidates also must sign a letter of intent to remain in the high-need school for three years.
Top Online Schools for Teachers In North Carolina
The teaching profession is a respected one in North Carolina, and as such their employment levels remain constant. For anyone who wants to gain credentials in an alternative manner, there are a number of places and programs to consider that can lead to different careers in teaching.
University of North Carolina
The University of North Carolina has a robust catalog of online degrees offered through their school of education. Spread out over undergraduate and graduate levels, all courses are set up
in accordance with state regulatory boards.
Grand Canyon University Online
Grand Canyon University has a slew of online degrees that carry a number in the education field. Those curious about the programs may also find the school’s policies regarding tuition to be of some use.
East Carolina University
Gaining an online degree from East Carolina University has presented itself as an amenable option. With degrees in education for all levels, the platform for students also includes an in-depth technology center devoted to interactive learning.
