At Fayetteville Technical Community College, we believe strong teachers are the cornerstone of strong communities. From the robust Early Childhood/Birth–Kindergarten program to Teacher Preparation degrees and the innovative Residency Licensure Certificate, FTCC is shaping the future of education—one teacher at a time.
FTCC’s Associate in Applied Science in Early Childhood Education is the department’s largest program, preparing graduates to work with children from birth through early elementary years. This degree equips students to serve in diverse learning environments, including preschools, childcare centers, and Head Start programs.
The program also offers stackable certificates that allow professionals to enhance their skills and credentials quickly, such as the:
• Special Needs Certificate – prepares students to work with children with exceptionalities.
• Infant–Toddler Care Certificate (C55290) – focuses on the care and development of children from birth to age three.
These certificates are ideal for individuals seeking career advancement, immediate workforce entry, or a stepping stone toward completing the full associate degree. Many graduates also qualify for the North Carolina Early Childhood Credential and pursue TEACH Early Childhood® scholarships or apprenticeships.
Teacher Preparation Degrees:
A Pathway to Teaching
For students planning to transfer to a four-year university, FTCC offers two Associate degree options in Teacher Preparation:
• Associate in Arts in Teacher Preparation
• Associate in Science in Teacher Preparation
These programs require 60 semester hours and are designed for seamless transfer to UNC system and private universities. Students build strong academic foundations while gaining early exposure to education concepts that prepare them for upper-level coursework.
Residency Licensure Certificate: A Career Changer’s Fast Track
Launched in 2024, FTCC’s Residency Licensure Certificate Program in Elementary Education offers a flexible and supported path to teacher licensure for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree in a field other than education. This program is especially valuable for career-changers, military spouses, and veterans who want to transition into teaching while maintaining work or family commitments.
Key program features include:
• Six fully online courses (18 credit hours) completed in 36 months
• Coursework covering pedagogy, classroom management, literacy, assessment, and content instruction
• Hands-on experience through a practicum and residency year in local schools
• Preparation for state-required licensure tests
“Participating in the FTCC Residency Licensure Program was one of the most impactful steps in my journey to becoming a more effective and confident educator. The structure of the program, along with the dedicated support from my professors, played a critical role in my professional growth and directly contributed to my success,” said FTCC Graduate Shenita Perry.
Whether you’re preparing to transfer to a university teaching program, entering the classroom through alternative licensure, or advancing your early childhood credentials, FTCC is here to help you make a better life for you and for the next generation.
Call 910-678 8205 or email education@faytechcc.edu to connect with an advisor.