Students in the Art Education and Studio Teaching programs concentrate on developing methods that teach children and adolescents to think visually and create art with personal meaning.
The Art Education department offers several degree options for students.
Undergraduate students in the School of Visual Arts' BFA studio programs in Painting, Sculpture, or Graphic Design may also consider taking graduate Art Education courses during their junior and senior years. A fifth year of additional coursework and student teaching completes their MFA in Studio Teaching. Students in this BFA/MFA program gain an exceptionally strong studio background, as well as a master's degree.
The Studio Teaching degree is designed for the student with an undergraduate studio art degree who wishes to teach in the public school system. Upon completion of all the Boston University degree requirements, students are eligible for initial licensure and after three years of teaching may apply for professional licensure under Massachusetts Regulations for Educators.
Program for Certification Pre-K–8 and/or 5–12. 42 credits total:
Teaching Art Pre-K–8 |
4 cr |
Teaching Art 5–12 |
4 cr |
Special Populations |
2 cr |
Contemporary Issues in Art Education |
2 cr |
Processes and Structures |
4 cr |
Child Growth and Development |
4 cr |
Practicum |
8 cr |
Art Education Teaching Seminars |
6 cr |
Art Curriculum Planning |
4 cr |
Clinical Practicum |
4 cr |
The Art Education degree is designed for teachers who already have state licensure or for individuals interested in the field of art education but not teaching licensure. Students design an individual course of study and select from a combination of art education, liberal arts, and studio art classes. An undergraduate degree in studio art is required.
Art Education |
12 cr |
Clinical Practicum or Studio Elective |
4 cr |
Studio or Liberal Arts Electives |
8 cr |
Related Fieldwork |
8 cr |
Total |
32 cr |
A thesis is required as an exit document from this program.
Studio teaching degree candidates complete one year of closely mentored practica at local public schools. Strong relationships with schools in the greater Boston area provide excellent placements for graduates. In the past eight years, the Boston University Art Education program has achieved a 100 percent placement rate for both graduates who choose to stay in Massachusetts and for those who seek employment in other states.