Math, geology and chemistry majors will now have a chance to earn their North Carolina teaching license while finishing their degree through a unique partnership between UNC’s College of Arts and Sciences and the School of Education.
UNC Baccalaureate Education in Science and Teaching (UNC-BEST) is program that aims to help ease the shortage of math and science teachers in North Carolina. Students in the program are able to receive their bachelor’s degree after four years as well as a high school science teaching license.
When the program first began, it was open to biology and physics majors only. Students in math, geology and chemistry will be able to enroll in the program in the spring. In 2008, the U.S. Department of Education granted UNC $1.25 million as a five-year grant to expand the program.
The courses in the program also include a fieldwork component, where students help in local high school science or math classes.
Last May, the first 12 biology and physics students graduated from the program, earning their teaching licenses.
Students with the majors supported by the program, and who are interested in earning a North Carolina teaching license with their degree, should apply for the program by March 1, 2010. Space is limited.
