At Halifax Community College students enroll in the Associate in Arts program—however, the courses are prescribed. Therefore, students who already have an Associate in Arts degree may still need a few courses to satisfy the ECSU requirements. Once students have completed the A.A. at HCC, Elizabeth City State University will offer courses toward the Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education on the HCC campus.

When are classes offered?

Because the program is designed for working students, classes will be available in the evenings and on weekends. Daytime courses are also offered.

Will I be able to get a job?

It is predicted that North Carolina will need 80,000 new teachers over the next 10 years. That’s 8,000 teachers each year—but only 5,000 teachers will graduate from NC’s teacher education programs each year. The teacher shortage is critical across North Carolina and in the Roanoke Valley.

How do I know if I will be a good teacher?

Elementary school teachers must relate well to children and work well with others. They should be enthusiastic and creative. A dose of patience and a sense of humor also help. Think you’ve got what it takes? Good! 

How do I enroll in the program?

If you think this program is right for you, follow these steps to enroll:

• Complete an application in the Admissions Office (Room 307). There is a $30 non-refundable application fee.
• Submit any prior college transcripts to see if any credits you have earned will apply to this program.
• Take placement tests. These tests help us start you at the right level.
• Meet with your advisor. Your academic advisor will go over your transcript evaluation, your placement test scores, and the curriculum to help you plan your course of study and register for classes.
• Pay tuition/fees and purchase books.
• Start classes!

What if I’ve been out of school for a while?

The typical profile of a student in the Teacher Preparation Partnership program is an adult who is working, who is raising a family, and who has always had a dream of being a teacher. This typical student takes classes in the evening and on weekends—and these students attest that they love it! While getting back in the classroom is challenging, they feel a sense of pride in each course they complete.

What courses will I take?

The Halifax Community College curriculum was developed in collaboration with Elizabeth City State University. The courses listed have all been approved by ECSU. The following curriculum plan is designed for the part-time student who wants to take courses in the evening or on the weekend and who wants to take a heavier course load during the summer. Students are not required to take these courses in this order. Students may take a shorter or longer time to complete the courses.

View the Course Track for this program. (Acrobat file, requires Adobe Acrobat Reader. If you have trouble viewing this document, click here.)

How long will it take for me to complete the program?

That depends on you! If you are enrolling part-time in the evening or on weekends, it may take 3 years to complete the HCC degree and 3 years for the ECSU degree. If you enroll full-time, you will be able to complete the program much faster.

Will the classes be too hard for me?

We ask all of our students to take placement tests in reading, writing, and math to see what their skill level is. If you need to brush up on your reading, writing, or math skills, you can take developmental classes before you take the college-level classes. If you still need help, we have tutors available.

It’s important not to take a class load that is too heavy. Many of our students start with just two courses. Then when they get back into the swing of going to school, they add more hours.

How much will it cost?

The HCC and ECSU Financial Aid Offices are ready to help you with the cost of your college courses. For general information, call the HCC Financial Aid Office at 538-4334.

Teacher Preparation students are eligible for a variety of scholarships. For HCC scholarships, applications submitted before July 1 are more likely to be awarded. DO NOT let the cost of tuition keep you from enrolling!  HCC staff will help you apply for financial aid.

What if I still have questions?

Call Pocahontas Jones to discuss your options—536-7256
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The Roanoke Valley needs good teachers. That may mean you!