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Already Teaching?
Earn Your License While You Stay in the Classroom.
FTCC’s Elementary Education Residency Licensure Certificate Program (RCLP) is designed for individuals who are already teaching in a K–6 classroom in North Carolina under a Residency License and need to complete their required coursework for full licensure.
This certificate provides a flexible, online option that allows you to meet NC DPI’s coursework requirements—while continuing to teach full time.
Is This Program Right for You?
| ✅ You Are a Good Fit If You… | ❌ This Program Is Not For You If You… |
|---|---|
| Hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution | Are just starting college or do not have a degree |
| Are currently employed in a K–6 classroom under a Residency License | Are not yet hired to teach or do not have a Residency License |
| Have a recommendation from your school or district (LEA) | Want to teach middle or high school content areas |
| Are seeking to fulfill DPI’s coursework requirement for licensure | Need initial teacher preparation or a teaching degree |
This certificate is only for K–6 Residency Licensed teachers.
For other licensure areas, please contact your school district or DPI.
Program Overview
Program Snapshot
- Credential: Certificate (not a degree)
- Program Code: C55490
- Delivery Format: 100% Online (asynchronous)
- Typical Length: 3–4 semesters (full-time); up to 6 semesters
- Start Terms: Fall preferred; rolling admission available
- Employment Requirement: You must remain actively employed in a K–6 classroom throughout the program
The program is cohort-based, meaning you’ll take classes alongside other residency teachers and move through the coursework together. Faculty and coaching staff are experienced, licensed K–6 educators who provide individualized support.
What This Program Prepares You to Do
This certificate isn’t just a checklist of courses—it’s a focused, real-world pathway designed to help you grow into a confident, effective K–6 educator. Everything you learn connects directly to your classroom practice.
Through this program, you’ll be prepared to:
- Design engaging, developmentally appropriate lessons
- Manage classrooms with clarity and consistency
- Support diverse learners using intentional strategies
- Use assessment data to guide instructional decisions
- Build strong literacy foundations across all subject areas
- Reflect on your teaching practice and grow professionally
- You’ll complete coursework aligned with NC DPI standards—while applying what you learn immediately in your own classroom.
Course Sequence & Format
Most students complete the certificate in four semesters. However, based on your personal, financial, or academic needs, you may choose to take one course per semester, extending the program to six semesters.
Recommended Four-Semester Sequence:
- Year 1 – Fall
- EDU 270 – Effective Instructional Environment (2 credits)
- Year 1 – Spring
- EDU 279 – Literacy Development and Instruction (4 credits)
- EDU 272 – Technology, Data, and Assessment (3 credits)
- Year 2 – Fall
- EDU 277 – Integrated Curriculum and Instructional Strategies: Math/Science (3 credits)
- EDU 278 – Integrated Curriculum and Instructional Strategies: Social Studies/ELA (3 credits)
- Year 2 – Spring
- EDU 283 – Educator Preparation Practicum (3 credits)
Additional Program Details
- Observations:
- EDU 270 includes one observation
- All other courses include two classroom observations by the EPP director or assigned coach
- Coaching:
- In-person coaching meetings are required each semester
- Course Delivery:
- Courses are delivered online with required face-to-face coaching and occasional in-person sessions as scheduled
How to Get Started
To apply, you must:
- ✅ Hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university.
- ✅ Be employed in a K–6 public or charter school under a Residency License.
- ✅ Have a recommendation from your school or district (LEA).
- ✅ Complete a transcript review and application process.
- ✅ Be committed to completing your courses within the DPI timeline.
Important Notes
- Students in this program are not eligible for federal financial aid because it is a post-baccalaureate certificate
- Loc
- Explore options through TEACH NC
- Completing this program satisfies DPI’s coursework requirement
- Licensure is granted by NC DPI, not FTCC
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I don’t have a Residency License yet?
No. You must already be hired under a Residency License in a K–6 position to qualify.
Can I take just one class at a time?
Yes. While most students complete the program in four semesters, you may take one course per semester and finish in up to six.
Is this a degree program?
No. This is a certificate program that fulfills academic requirements for licensure—it does not lead to a degree.
Will I get help finding observation sites?
Observations are completed in your own classroom or through your school placement. No external placements are provided.
Are there required in-person meetings?
Yes. Each semester includes required face-to-face coaching meetings to support your development.
Still Have Questions?
- We’re here to help!
- 📧 Email: FTCC Residency Licensure Certificate Program
Ready to Begin?
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Download Program Checklist & FAQs (working on this)
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Learn More About NC Residency Licensure
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