Program Overview

Program Overview

The Graduate Certificate in Instructional Coaching is a professional development program designed for teachers who are seeking instructional leadership opportunities, current mentor teachers or classroom teachers interested in becoming mentor teachers, and Professional Learning Community (PLC) or grade level leaders. This program can be taken as a part of the Online M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction program.

Program Details

• The program is delivered online and consists of 12 credit hours.
• The program can be completed in as little as two semesters as a full-time student, or up to four semesters.
• The program prioritizes real-world application, expert instruction, and professional networking.
• Students will develop the instructional coaching skills needed to help teachers improve instruction, design quality curriculum, effectively use data to guide instruction, and determine areas for development.

Courses

• There are four courses in the program:
  • Principles of Coaching I
  • Coaching for an Equitable Learning Environment
  • Principles of Coaching II
  • Application of Coaching Principles
• Each 8-week course is fully online.
• Participants need access to teachers that they can work with to develop their coaching practice.

Admissions

• To apply for this program, students need:
  • An undergraduate degree in education or a closely related field from a college or university accredited by an accepted accrediting body
  • A minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75
  • To be a teacher of record with at least three years of K12 instructional experience, or a current administrator or instructional coach, facilitator, or specialist
  • Two letters of reference from current or past supervisors (must include principal) that document leadership and/or administrative experiences and potential for success as an instructional coach
  • A clear criminal background check will be necessary to work in schools
  • A personal statement of purpose
  • A resume
• Application deadlines:
  • December 1 (spring)
  • August 1 (fall)

Career Outlook

Students who complete the Graduate Certificate in Instructional Coaching go on to work for educational school districts and educational providers. Many instructional coaches take advantage of opportunities beyond the classroom and move into school or district instructional leadership roles. Our certificate earners have job titles such as:

• Instructional coach
• Post-secondary and secondary school teacher
• Instructional designer
• Principal or assistant principal
• STEM coordinator

Why UNC Charlotte?

Choosing UNC Charlottes online Graduate Certificate in Instructional Coaching offers many advantages, including:

• Learning from faculty experts
• Earning the certificate in just two semesters
• Gaining real-world skills through field experiences

Tuition

• NC Resident: $309.59 per credit hour
• Non-Resident: $1,186.59 per credit hour
• Please note: Rates are subject to change.

Testimonial

The Instructional Coaching program at UNC Charlotte has significantly enriched my educational journey, and its value is truly immeasurable. From the beginning, it was clear that the instructors were knowledgeable and deeply committed to our learning. They guided me through complex concepts and supported me as I explored real-world applications. Their guidance and support were truly invaluable, and I am deeply grateful for their dedication. Stephanie Stamey Jacobs

Related Programs

• Curriculum and Instruction, M.Ed.
• Learning, Design and Technology, Graduate Certificate