Contact Us
Office of Alternative Licensure
Western Carolina University
91 Killian Bldg. Lane, Suite 203
Cullowhee, NC 28723
Phone
828-227-7027
Fax
828-227-7090
Lydia Cook
Academic Advisor
Rachel Wike
Assistant Coordinator
"Alternative Licensure at WCU is a geat way to get mid-career professionals ready for the classroom. The biggest surprise to me was the emotional reward of teaching. I should have done this 15 years ago. "
Susan Dryman
Erwin Middle School, Asheville
Former WCU alternative licensure student Jerome Hughes, who teaches English at Asheville High School, was the 2007 Western Regional Teacher of the Year.
read more about Hughes
Derek Dennis, a former WCU alternative licensure student who teaches middle grade science at Rugby Middle School, has been named a Kenan Fellow for the class of 2010.
meet the 2010 Kenan Fellows (PDF)
Western Carolina University's alternative licensure programs open the door for those who already have degrees and are ready for the challenge of teaching. Our programs are designed to recruit, train, and support recent college graduates, mid-career professionals, and retirees as they enter the teaching profession.
As a student in Western's alternative licensure program, you will receive an individualized plan of study based on previous experience and education. Many opportunities to observe and work with public school master teachers are provided in our program. We have dedicated faculty with strong public school partnerships. And you’ll receive support and encouragement during those critical first years of teaching through our Center for the Support of Beginning Teachers (CSBT).
If you want to become a teacher but can’t leave your full-time job or if you’re already a lateral entry teacher, consider taking your classes online. Our online program was developed for working adults with all licensure courses offered completely online in the following areas: middle and secondary English/language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies as well as BK and K-12 special education.Want to Teach in NC through an Alternative Entry Program? Here are the questions to ask:
- What alternative licensure programs does WCU offer?
- What do I need to do to become employed?
- What are the requirements for a Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) degree?
- How do I get started?
- Frequently Asked Questions for perspective students