Education students at NC State begin their training in year one. In addition to university general education credits, education students take an Introduction to Education course. Students work with a professional advisor to establish professional goals and create a four-year academic plan.

Students continue to take general education courses. During this year, students traditionally take Introduction to Teaching in Today's Schools. This course focuses on building relationships with K-12 students, developing engaging learning activities and engaging in a service-learning project. During this year, students participate in a field experience in a public school. During year two, most students are officially admitted to teacher candidacy.

During year three, most students enter their professional education courses, including courses focused on instructional design, understanding student differences, child development, assessment and teaching practice. Students participate in a variety of clinical experiences in local schools and practice what they are learning in their professional education coursework.

Year four is the Professional Year. Students enter into their professional year during their fourth year. This year includes an intensive placement in a K-12 school. The work students complete in the clinical experience is aligned with the work in their final professional education courses.

Students receive coaching from their university supervisor and school-based clinical educator in preparation to take on teaching responsibilities. Students also receive support to pass the state-required licensing exams during this year.

At NC State, we believe strong clinical experiences are the foundation of our programs. Students will complete up to 200 hours of work in the field prior to student teaching and over 600 hours during student teaching. Our college has developed strategic partnerships with local schools for the field education of our students.

We prepare professionals who educate and lead. Our inquiry and practice reflect integrity, a commitment to fairness, and recognition of the different experiences present in a global community. The College of Education will lead the way in North Carolina in increasing opportunities for success in education and reducing achievement gaps. Students learn how cultural factors shape classroom experiences and develop skills for teaching students from different backgrounds.

Students participate in a variety of clinical experiences in local schools and practice what they are learning in their professional education coursework. Students receive coaching from their university supervisor and school-based clinical educator in preparation to take on teaching responsibilities. Students also receive support to pass the state-required licensing exams during this year.