Art Education Program Overview
Never underestimate the impact of visual art in the classroom. It opens doors to self-expression and high self-esteem, promotes confident and critical thinking and connects children to human stories, past and present. Schools need qualified art teachers for pre-K through high school—teachers who are caring, thoughtful, organized and creative. If you aspire to make a difference through visual art and foster growth in the next generation, the Art Education program is for you.
Merit-based scholarships are available to all students entering an art program at Ashland University. Review scholarship criteria and submission process.
Learning Experiences
You will learn about the creation of art and the education of artists. In addition to becoming a well-rounded artist yourself, you will:
- Gain the skills needed to introduce kids to the creative process and the world of art.
- Receive personalized attention from dedicated faculty who are experienced artists and educators themselves.
- Have access to ample studio space.
- Receive opportunities to showcase your work, starting with your freshman year.
Additional opportunities include field trips to area museums and galleries, membership in the Art Club, student presentations at the Ohio Art Educators Conference and assistance with Art Saturdays programming and Summer Art Camps through the Coburn Art Gallery.
How Do I Know if This Program Is Right for Me?
Are you passionate about both art and education? Do you find joy in inspiring creativity and helping others unlock their artistic potential? This program offers a unique blend of artistic expression and pedagogical training, preparing you to become a licensed art teacher capable of making a lasting impact in classrooms and communities.
Sample Curriculum
For additional information about the Art Education curriculum, view the Four-Year Curriculum Guide, Academic Catalog and Undergraduate Gateways.
First Year
Second Year
Third Year
Fourth Year
| Licensure Disclosure: This program is for students who intend to seek employment in Ohio and only prepares students for licensure in the state of Ohio. |
Dean's Scholarship
The Dean's Scholarship was created to enhance the undergraduate academic experience for new first-time and transfer students enrolled in a major within the College of Arts & Sciences. It is a merit-based, renewable scholarship of $1,500 that can be "stacked" on top of other awarded AU academic scholarships. In addition, students have the opportunity to participate in unique academic communities with a focus on career coaching and preparation.
Career Opportunities
The 2023 median pay for kindergarten through high school teachers ranged from $63,670 to $65,220 and employment is projected to decline slightly through 2033. (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Career placement for art educators is high, with most of our graduates securing teaching positions within one year of graduation.
Employers of Recent Graduates
- Ansonia local schools
- Ashland City schools
- Clear Fork Valley local schools
- Eastern local schools
- Green local schools
- Lexington local schools
- Loudonville-Perrysville schools
- Mapleton local schools
- Ontario local schools