North Carolina Community College Master Instructor Certification Program
Welcome to the official page for the North Carolina Community College Master Instructor (NC3MI) Certification Program. This prestigious program is designed to elevate the professional expertise of our state's most dedicated educators. Join us in shaping the future of education in North Carolina. Scroll down to learn how to apply.
Why Join the NC3MI Certification Program?
Statewide Recognition
Receive acknowledgment for your teaching excellence, leadership, and dedication to student success across North Carolina.
Professional Growth
Engage in continuous professional development opportunities that refine your teaching practices and enhance your impact in the classroom.
Collaboration and Networking
Connect with a dynamic cohort of peers from various community colleges, creating a powerful network of professional relationships that extend beyond the program.
Documentation of Excellence
Develop a comprehensive portfolio that demonstrates your instructional mastery and commitment to educational excellence.
Community Impact
Strengthen your ties with local communities and industries, enriching the educational experience for your students and contributing to workforce readiness.
Program Highlights
- Duration: January 2025 – May 2025
- Format: Primarily online and asynchronous, with in-person launch and in-person capstone event.
- Target Participants: Instructors from North Carolina Community Colleges, including Curriculum, Continuing Education, and College and Career Readiness
- Key Focus Areas: Professional Development, Student Learning, Collaborative Leadership, High-Engagement Practices
Contact Information
For more information about the NC3MI Certification Program, please contact Dr. Lane Freeman at freemanl@nccommunitycolleges.edu
Before You Begin the Application Processs
To ensure a smooth application process, please make sure you have all the following items handy before beginning the online application. You will not be able to save your progress and must complete the form in one sitting. Having these items ready will help you avoid any interruptions:
- Supporting Summary: A written endorsement or summary from your Chief Academic Officer or Workforce Officer (Word Document or PDF).
- Personal Statement: A statement outlining your reasons for applying, your professional goals, and how the NC3MI program aligns with your career aspirations (Word Document or PDF).
- Current Resume: An up-to-date resume highlighting your academic and professional experience (Word Document or PDF).
How to Apply
To apply for the NC3MI Certification Program, follow these steps:
1. Click the link below to access the NCCCS Service Portal.
2. Register for a free Service Portal if necessary.
3. Click on "Request Something".
4. Access the NC3MI Application under the "Category" section.
5. Submit the application by October 31st November 15th.
My experience in the NC3MI was helpful on multiple levels. First, I made some strong connections with other faculty across the state, giving me the opportunity to share and learn from others. Secondly, the course content elevated my teaching practice to the next level. The practical tools and guidance for using them are necessary for anyone who wants to change the way they impact students! Not only that but becoming a student again during this course is one of the most impactful things you can do to help you understand the mindset of the modern student.
Dr. Elizabeth Braun
•Department Chair of Rhetoric and Composition
Catawba Valley Community College
Being a part of the Master Instructor Cohort has been one of the best experiences so far in my Community College experience. Not only were Dr. Freeman and the leadership welcoming and engaging, but my peers were so helpful and knowledgeable. I felt like I truly was among the best of the best every step of the way. The community that was built is unparalleled. Most importantly, the content of the course helped hone my skills as an instructor so that I have been better able to engage my students, both in the classroom and online. Our role as faculty is to be here for the students, and the NC3MI Cohort takes this to the next level. I’m truly excited for this program to continue!
Joshua Brosius
•Instructor, Computer Integrated Machining
Stanly Community College
The NC3MI program allowed me to think critically, work collaboratively, and communicate more effectively how my instruction and planning directly impacts my students' educational journey.
Nicholas Goble
•Advertising, Graphic Design, Career and College Promise Instructor
Alamance Community College
I was eager to participate in the first cohort of the North Carolina Community College Master Instructor (NC3MI) Certification program and I was not disappointed. This online course/cohort is an awesome resource for educators in the community college system looking to enhance their teaching skills, both online and in the classroom. The course was thoughtfully designed using tools and techniques to teach the tools and techniques that create engaging and effective learning environments. The course introduced a variety of digital tools, such online digital boards, multimedia content creation, and podcasts. The techniques that fostered collaboration and online community for student engagement were particularly valuable. Whether through discussion boards or interactive lessons, the strategies shared in this course were designed to keep us motivated and connected. I cannot say enough good things about this certification program and its impact on learning and teaching.
Tiffany Cooper
Isothermal Community College
NC3MI - Frequently Asked Questions
Who is behind NC3MI?
The program is the result of a collaborative effort between the NC Community College System (NCCCS) and AVID for Postsecondary. The task force includes representatives from the Student Success Center, Continuing Education, College and Career Readiness, Perkins Team, and Economic Development Team.
Who can apply for NC3MI?
All faculty (full-time and part-time) faculty members and college leadership who teach at least one course within the NC Community College System are eligible to apply.
How do I apply?
- Complete the online application form.
- Have your CAO or Workforce Officer complete the Candidate Support Summary.
- Submit a personal statement explaining why you want to participate.
- Submit a Resume.
What is the Candidate Support Summary?
The Candidate Support Summary is a form to be completed by Chief Academic Officers (CAOs) and/or Workforce Officers. It is designed to provide additional context for the candidate's application and must be submitted along with the application.
What happens if I'm not selected this year?
You should keep your application materials on file for future considerations, as the program plans to expand its offerings in subsequent years.
How many slots are available for this program?
The inaugural cohort is limited to 20 candidates and will be selected based on the needs of the program.
Can colleges nominate multiple faculty members?
Yes, colleges can submit applications for multiple candidates as the NC3MI Task Force aims to select a diverse cohort in terms of disciplines, college sizes, and geographic locations.