Where to Start
Noyce Scholars commit to becoming STEM teachers. By accepting the scholarship, you are committing to teaching secondary math or science in a high-needs public school district for two years, per year of funding, after graduating and earning your teaching certificate.
If you are a Freshman or Sophomore
It is not too soon to start exploring your interest in teaching secondary science or math in a high needs school district. At W&M you can major in Biology, Chemistry, Geology, Physics, Neuroscience, CAMS (Computational and Applied Math and Statistics) or Mathematics to be considered for the Noyce Scholars Program. Be sure to understand the course requirements for earning a teaching certificate in your field.
We recommend you explore the Office of Community Engagement's (OCE) programs for students. There are many opportunities for you to gain early experiences in teaching through the OCE's Education Programs. Volunteering with these programs will also give you opportunities to learn about issues of social justice and equity, which affect our education and broader communities.
When you declare your major in the spring of your sophomore year, you may apply to become a Noyce Scholar at the same time. This is also the time that you should apply to the School of Education so that you can double-major in education. Once accepted in the Noyce Scholars Program, you will receive a scholarship of up to $26,000.
If you are a Junior or Senior
You may apply to the Noyce Scholars Program any time during your junior year and until February of your senior year. You will apply for the Program at the same time you apply for admission to William & Mary's School of 5 Year BA to M.A.Ed. Program or the Secondary School Teaching M.A.Ed.
You are encouraged to explore the complexities and practicalities of public urban education through the DC Center Winter Seminar, Urban Education: Policy, Practice, and Leadership, taught by Professor Drew Stelljes. Students in this course will examine a variety of topics, such as, the cultural and political characteristics of schools, school reform, the role of schools in a democratic society, race and racism, gender, class, social justice, educational equity, diversity, and teacher pedagogy.
If you already have your undergraduate degree
If you graduated with a STEM major from an accredited university, you may apply to the Noyce Program as a graduate student. You will apply for the Program at the same time you apply for admission to William & Mary's School of Education’s Secondary School Teaching M.A.Ed.
