Do you dream of spending your days developing the imagination and creativity of students? With a master of arts in art education, you’ll have the opportunity to teach students of all ages the joy, wonder, and cultural significance of art.
Benefits of a Master’s Degree in Art Education
Art education positions are often available at the elementary or secondary school level, but with a master’s degree in art education, you may qualify for more specialized positions. These include special education art teaching, art department leadership, and even roles outside of K-12 public schools in higher education, or with galleries and museums.
With your advanced degree in art education, you’ll also be more competitive in the educational job market, and will be prepared to stand out among other art teachers — not to mention command a higher salary. And as public schools cut funding for art education, a master’s degree in art education may give you the edge you need to find competitive positions at elite private schools that continue to offer art courses.
Master’s in Art Education Curriculum
A master’s in art education is designed to marry your passion for art to the latest developments in teaching technologies, classroom pedagogy, and research. In a society that is placing increasing value on digital multimedia, this integrated approach to teaching is becoming much more important.
In a typical master of arts in art education program, you’ll explore how art teachers can adapt their work to 21st century educational environments. Coursework in this degree program typically includes:
- Creative Leadership
- Art for Special Populations
- Making and Teaching Art
- Museum Education
- Curriculum Planning
As art is a hands-on process, most master’s programs in art education also include a studio project.
Schools That Offer an Online Master’s Degree in Art Education
A least a dozen schools in the United States offer online programs for a master’s degree in art education. These two particular universities offer recognized online offerings:
- An online master of arts in art education from Boston University is targeted specifically toward K-12 art educators. In addition to a master’s research project, coursework covers curriculum planning and contemporary issues in art education. Candidates are strongly encouraged to participate in a one-week on-campus summer studio.
- Art teachers of all ages can earn an online master of arts in art education from the University of Florida. The curriculum places a strong emphasis on contemporary art education practices, the importance of digital media and the benefits of reflective inquiry. On-campus summer studio sessions are required to graduate.
Career Opportunities with a Master’s Degree in Art Education
A nationally accredited online master’s degree in art education can take you in a number of career directions. Educators with a master’s degree in art education have found work with:
- colleges, universities, and professional schools
- performing arts companies
- community art programs
- museums and galleries
- government advocacy programs
- educational support services
Working artists who wish to add a second income stream might also consider a master’s degree in art education to open additional career opportunities.
Art teachers typically earn a median annual wage of $62,830, however, those employed in higher education or in high need areas will earn a higher salary — some as high as $122,360.
