UNC Wilmington

Craven Community College (Craven CC) and the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) have partnered to launch the Secondary Teacher Education Partnership Initiative (STEP-IN). This collaborative program creates a clear and convenient pathway for students who want to become licensed secondary teachers—without leaving their communities.

Students begin their journey at Craven CC by earning an Associate in Arts or Associate in Science degree. From there, they “step in” to UNCW’s online teacher preparation program, completing their bachelor’s degree and student teaching requirements while staying local.

Why Choose STEP-IN?

• Stay Local: Complete all coursework and student teaching in your community—no need to relocate or commute.
• Flexible & Accessible: All remaining courses from UNCW are offered online through synchronous or asynchronous Zoom formats.
• Cost-Effective: Save on travel and housing while gaining valuable experience in local classrooms.
• Make an Impact: STEP-IN is designed to help address North Carolina’s teacher shortage, especially in rural and underserved areas.

Program Structure

The STEP-IN program is a partnership between Craven CC and two colleges within UNCW.

The College of Humanities, Social Sciences, and the Arts offers specialized coursework tailored for STEP-IN students. The Watson College of Education provides all secondary education program courses and student teaching experiences online. Together, these institutions are delivering a robust, high-quality teacher preparation program designed for students right here in Eastern North Carolina.

Who Should Apply?

• Current Craven CC students pursuing an AA or AS degree
• Aspiring teachers who want to stay rooted in their community
• Anyone passionate about making a difference in local schools