The mission of the program is to help graduates prepare for all aspects of instructional activity in the dynamic atmosphere of the community college classroom. Program graduates will recognize the importance of developing an adult learning philosophy, understanding the mission of the community college, and the instructional methodologies that are most effective with adult learners.
Curriculum
The program provides the required 18 to 24 graduate credit hours in an academic discipline plus 11 to 17 hours in the Community College Professional core, which gives you a valuable background in working with adult learners and in understanding the mission and philosophy of the community college. Read the course requirements (catalog listing).
All students must pass a comprehensive examination prior to graduation. The comprehensive exam will cover the mission, philosophy, and comprehensive curriculum of the community college as well as other topics related to the student's academic discipline.
Admission
The admission process begins with an application to the WCU Graduate School. Read more about the admissions process and requirements.
Advisement
Once admitted to the program, you will be assigned an adviser who will assist in planning a program of study; you also will work with a faculty member in the Western Carolina University academic department in which their teaching discipline is located. Students should not register for any courses without consultation with their advisers.
Contact Information
The faculty contact for the program is Dr. Ann Alexander. She can be reached at 828-227-2579 or by e-mail at aalexander@wcu.edu.