Art Education Degrees


Art Education Degrees

A degree in Art Education is an excellent way for art enthusiasts to pursue a fulfilling career by bringing art into students' lives. Art teachers teach methods and techniques but also give their students the opportunity to release their creativity in a safe, supportive environment. Art classes improve students' problem solving and critical thinking skills so art teachers make an impact beyond the classroom. Art class is also a place where students who may be struggling in other classes, can gain confidence and take pride in their unique creations.

Degree Options

  • Associate's Degree – Most associate degree programs prepare students to transfer into a four-year school to earn their bachelor's degree in Art Education.
  • Bachelor's Degree – A bachelor's degree in Art Education will prepare students to become licensed art teachers in their state at the elementary, middle or high school level.
  • Post-Baccalaureate Program – These programs are for bachelor degree holders who have completed significant art coursework and who want to become licensed art teachers. These programs do not lead to a degree.
  • Master's Degree – Masters level programs are often designed for those who have a bachelor's degree in a related subject area and would like to teach art. These degrees can also enable graduates to teach at community colleges or become involved in museum education and arts administration.
  • Doctoral Degree –Doctoral program graduates will be prepared to teach art at the college level or become involved in a leadership or administrative role in art education.

Schools

Art Education degree programs can be found at specialized colleges, at many universities and a few online schools. Some specialized colleges offer numerous types of visual art and design programs while others are more comprehensive and include programs in music, theater, fashion and culinary arts.

Coursework

Some examples of courses Art Education students will take are listed below:

  • Artistic Development of Children
  • Curriculum Design in Art Education
  • Processes and Structures in the Visual Arts
  • Artistic Development: Adolescence to Adulthood
  • Technology Applications for Art Teachers
  • 2-D Design
  • Printmaking
  • Figure Sculpture

Interests and Aptitudes

Art Education majors, in addition to being skillful artists, need to have patience, creativity, organization skills and the ability to inspire their students to release their creative energies. Art class can be the highlight of a student's day if their instructor is upbeat, flexible and encouraging.

Career Options

Graduates of an Art Education program can teach art in public schools or at the college level, with the appropriate degree. Others may choose to teach art in community venues and museum art programs. Art teachers can also find supplemental jobs at summer camps and after school programs.

Related Majors

  • Art History
  • Studio Art
  • Art Therapy
  • Graphic Design
  • Elementary School Education
  • Middle School Education
  • Secondary School Education

How To Evaluate Art Education Degree Programs

Future Art Education students may want to consider the following factors when selecting a program:

  • State Licensing - States each determine their own requirements for art teacher education so prospective students need to verify their program of choice meets their state's requirements.
  • Cost - The price tag for attending an art education program can vary widely between programs, so comparing costs and likely financial aid from each school should be a step prospective students take.
  • School Setting - Students spend a great deal of time at their college, and especially for those residing at school, the environment and extra-curricular experience should be one they truly enjoy.
  • Accreditation - Schools should be accredited by a regional accrediting agency and by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design(NASAD).

Resources

National Art Education Association

Arts Education Partnership

National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD)

College Art Association

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