Geography, Comprehensive Social Studies Teacher Licensure
The Comprehensive Social Studies Teacher Licensure program in Geography at the University of North Carolina provides students with a solid foundation in geographic knowledge, pedagogy, and instructional strategies for K-12 education. The curriculum emphasizes geography, social studies, classroom management, and educational theory, preparing learners to teach effectively across multiple grade levels. Students develop teaching skills, subject matter expertise, classroom management abilities, and applied knowledge in geography education, equipping them to foster student learning and engagement in schools.
Throughout the program, learners engage in coursework, field experiences, and applied teaching projects that integrate theoretical understanding with practical classroom applications. Faculty mentorship guides students in curriculum development, lesson planning, and instructional assessment, enabling them to apply classroom and educational theory to real world teaching settings. By combining theory with applied practice, students strengthen pedagogical competence, instructional planning skills, analytical abilities, and applied classroom expertise, ensuring they are prepared for professional roles in K-12 education and social studies instruction.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Geography, Comprehensive Social Studies Teacher Licensure
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 February 2026
- Location: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, United States
- Field of Study: Geography
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 Foundations in Geography and Education
• Introduction to Geography and Social Studies
• Principles of Teaching and Learning
• Academic Writing and Research
• Classroom Observation and Early Field Experience
Year 2 Core Geography and Teaching Studies
• Physical and Human Geography
• Social Studies Curriculum and Methods
• Educational Psychology for Teachers
• Applied Research Methods in Education
Year 3 Advanced Applications
• Geography Instructional Strategies
• Lesson Planning and Assessment
• Practicum I: Classroom Teaching Experience
• Elective Modules in Social Studies or Geography
Year 4 Integration and Capstone
• Advanced Teaching Methods in Social Studies
• Practicum II: Student Teaching Internship
• Capstone Project in Geography Education
• Professional Development and Portfolio
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for professional roles that require expertise in geography, social studies, and K-12 instruction. Many pursue careers as social studies teachers, geography educators, curriculum developers, and educational coordinators, applying teaching, instructional planning, and classroom management skills in school settings. Others work in public schools, educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, or educational program development, designing curricula, delivering lessons, and fostering student learning. The program’s emphasis on applied pedagogy, subject expertise, and instructional competence equips graduates to excel in professional, educational, and leadership roles in K-12 education.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students who want to combine a strong foundation in geography with practical skills in social studies instruction and K-12 teaching. Its curriculum emphasizes curriculum design, instructional strategies, classroom management, and applied teaching experiences, providing learners with the tools to educate effectively and engage students across diverse learning environments. Faculty mentorship supports students in developing teaching expertise, pedagogical competence, classroom management skills, and applied instructional abilities. Through practicum experiences, applied projects, and capstone teaching, learners strengthen teaching skills, pedagogical expertise, classroom management competence, and applied instructional abilities, preparing them for successful and impactful careers in K-12 education and social studies instruction.
Contact Information
Phone: +1 (919) 966-3621
Email: unchelp@admissions.unc.edu
Address: Jackson Hall, 174 Country Club Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA
