COURSE CURRICULUM

The coursework in the PreK–12 Visual Art Education program is designed to prepare students to become skilled, reflective, and creative art educators who can teach across a wide range of school settings. The curriculum blends studio practice, art history, pedagogy, and education theory to ensure students develop both strong artistic abilities and effective teaching strategies.Students begin with Art & Artists in Contemporary Culture, which explores how contemporary art reflects social, cultural, and political ideas. This helps future educators understand how to connect modern artistic practices with classroom teaching. Art History provides a foundation in major artistic movements, artists, and historical contexts, giving students the background needed to teach visual art with depth and perspective.A key component of the program is Art and Pedagogy, which focuses on teaching methods specific to visual arts education. Students learn how to design lessons, structure classroom activities, and develop instructional strategies that encourage creativity and critical thinking. Teacher as Artist emphasizes the importance of maintaining personal artistic practice while developing a teaching identity, helping students balance their roles as both educators and creators.Courses such as Social and Historical Issues in Education and Strategies for Mainstreaming and Inclusion prepare students to work effectively in diverse classrooms. These classes focus on equity, inclusion, and understanding the social factors that influence student learning and classroom dynamics.Students also gain extensive hands-on experience in studio art disciplines, including Painting, Sculpture, Drawing, and Printmaking, as well as Media Arts such as Photography, Video, and Graphic Art. These courses strengthen technical skills while allowing students to explore multiple artistic mediums.Overall, the curriculum combines artistic development, educational theory, and inclusive teaching practices to prepare students for careers as certified visual art teachers. Graduates are equipped to inspire creativity, foster artistic expression, and support diverse learners in PreK–12 educational environments.