Student teacher working with students in an elementary school classroom
MAEd

Elementary Education

You’re already making a difference in the classroom. This program helps you do even more. The Master of Arts in Education (MAEd) with a specialization in Elementary Education at UNC Pembroke is flexible, accelerated, affordable and designed for working teachers. It’s 100% online and focused on real classroom results. Build the skills to lead instruction, support your peers and create stronger learning outcomes for every student.

Application Deadline

Aug. 11, 2025

Classes Start

Aug. 25, 2025

Program Highlights

This 30-credit master’s program helps you grow as a teacher and a leader. You’ll explore best practices, data-driven instruction and strategies that support all learners. Coursework is a combination of online and hands-on fieldwork. Designed for busy educators, you can apply what you learn right away.  Our program is fully accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) and leads to licensure in North Carolina. Whether you're aiming to become a curriculum facilitator, instructional leader or anything in between, this program gives you the tools to take that next step.

Can’t start this semester? No problem. This program offers multiple start dates throughout the year, so you can begin when the timing is right for you.

Learn More

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Requirements

Admission to the program is based on a few key qualifications. Before you apply, make sure you meet the outlined requirements. 

  • Bachelor’s degree
  • Valid class A teaching license in Elementary Education, or equivalent
  • 2.5 GPA
  • Three professional references
  • No GRE or GMAT required

female teacher sitting on the floor reading to children

 

Get There From Here

Darius Barnes standing in front of a capital building
I was able to grow, develop and thrive here, especially in the School of Education. The signs you see on campus that read, ‘You can get there from here,’ are absolutely true.

Darius Barnes

Elementary Education, '20

Darius Barnes always knew he wanted to be an educator. By age 12, he was volunteering in the Sunday School nursery. Years later, he helped mold young minds as a YMCA counselor in his hometown of Hampton, Virginia.

When financial troubles while a student  forced him to put his educational career on hold, Barnes joined the Army. He served eight years, including a year stationed with the 2nd Infantry Division in South Korea, then returned to the states to pick up where he left off. In the summer of 2018, Barnes moved to Pembroke and enrolled in the Elementary Education program at UNC Pembroke.

As a military-affiliated student, Barnes said the faculty and staff were committed to his success from day one.

 

 

 

Darius Barnes in military uniform

 

More Student Stories

 

Get In Touch

Our Admissions counselors are here to answer any questions you have.

or call us at 910.521.6271

 

 

Meet Our Faculty

Kelly Ficklin, headshot

Kelly Ficklin

Associate Professor and Director of Graduate Elementary Education Program


910.775.4037
All Faculty & Staff

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School of Education

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UNCP's Teacher Education Program is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). Each undergraduate and graduate teacher education program area offered by UNCP is approved by the NC State Board of Education.